Long Island Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Beware of Left Turns

According to the US Department of Transportation, more than 50 percent of all crossing path accidents involve left turns. Because of this, the Long Island motorcycle accident attorneys from The Barnes Firm advise that it’s critical to use extreme caution while making a left turn at an intersection. Some of the ways that motorcyclists can avoid left-turn collisions include:

• Yield to oncoming traffic
• Signal for left-hand turns 150 feet before the intersection
• Stay alert
• Don’t misjudge the speed of approaching vehicles

Avoid Sudden Stop Situations

Regardless of how cautious they may be, a motorcyclist won’t always be able to avoid a sudden stop accident. However, there are a few safety precautions they can take to reduce the risk:

• Obey the speed limit
• Keep safe distances between the bike and other vehicles on the road
• Consider the extra weight that cargo or people can add to the bike; this increases the time it takes to come to a complete stop

Oncoming Traffic Clips You

This type of accident can be most common on narrow and one-lane roads. Getting clipped by another vehicle or truck can be especially dangerous because it will cause a driver to lose control of the motorcycle, resulting in severe injuries and possibly causing additional accidents with other vehicles. Always be wary of the bike’s positioning within the lane and allow for extra room when going around curves or in traffic.

Road Hazard Awareness

Every road has its own unique hazards. From pothole and loose gravel to roadkill and other dangers, there is plenty to take a driver by surprise; motorcyclists are even more susceptible to these random road hazards. Instead of relying on sudden last-second maneuvers, it’s better to survey the road as it’s approaching in order to avoid encountering these elements and being caught by surprise.

Don’t Ride Close to Parked Vehicles

Cars parked on the side of the street and elsewhere pose an entirely different danger for motorcyclists. At any moment, a driver who is arriving may suddenly open their car door right into the path of traffic. Similarly, a departing driver might unexpectedly swing the car into the driving lane. Both of these scenarios create significant dangers for motorcyclists. The best way to avoid colliding with an abruptly ajar door is to maintain a safe distance from parked cars.

Cars Changing Lanes

As a common cause of high-speed motorcycle accidents, a car changing lanes is yet another hazard motorcyclists need to be aware of. Not only are these types of accidents dangerous, but they can result in severe injuries and death. With experience representing all types of motorcycle accidents for their client, the team of Long Island motorcycle accident attorneys at The Barnes Firm recommend the motorcycle and car drivers alike remain aware of the flow of traffic both in front of and behind them, using mirrors to watch out for any vehicles that appear to be changing lanes.