It goes without saying that motorcyclists face unique dangers compared to people in passenger vehicles. Motorcycle accidents can result in severe injuries to the rider and are more likely to result in death. However, there are also unique challenges in proving your case in order to get the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash, you need an experienced San Luis Obispo motorcycle accident lawyer who understands what makes your case different. 

The Motorcyclist Stigma

One challenge of motorcycle accident cases that is often overlooked is the stigma that motorcyclists face when pursuing a claim. Motorcyclists are seen as reckless, irresponsible thrill-seekers, who not only accept the hazards of riding a motorcycle but cause danger to other motorists. This stigma can infect insurance companies, judges, juries, as well as the other driver who steadfastly refuses to accept responsibility for the accident. For responsible motorcyclists, this can make it extraordinarily difficult to pursue a claim for compensation. Work with a skilled motorcycle accident attorney who understands this stigma and knows how to use the facts and the law to overcome it. 

Motorcyclists and Visibility

One of the most common things you will hear from the other driver in a motorcycle accident is that they “just didn’t see them.” While motorcycles are less visible due to their size, this is not a valid excuse. There are many things that motorcyclists do to increase their visibility and your lawyer should highlight those facts when making your claim. The truth is that most drivers don’t “see” motorcyclists because they simply aren’t paying attention, despite their claims to the contrary. 

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

It’s also helpful to understand how motorcycle accidents typically happen. Many of these scenarios are related to the “visibility” issue, but not all. 

• Following too closely: Many motorists don’t realize that motorcycles can stop much more quickly than the average passenger vehicle. As a result, they follow motorcycles too quickly and then cannot stop in time to avoid an accident. 
• Passing accidents: These can occur when the vehicle fails to see the oncoming motorcycle when it moves into the oncoming lane to pass. They can also occur when the passing vehicle doesn’t have enough time to safely pass and forces a motorcycle off the road when they move back into their lane. 
• Left-turn accidents: Another accident related to visibility, the motor vehicle makes a left turn in front of a motorcycle in the oncoming lane and causes an accident. 
• Unsafe lane changes: When a driver makes a sudden lane change without a turn signal or checking their blind spots, it can result in an accident. While this may be a minor fender bender if involving another passenger vehicle, it can result in severe injury when it involves a motorcycle. 

Understanding the nature of the accident and what makes it unique is critical to successfully pursuing a claim.

Call a San Luis Obispo Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today

A motorcycle crash can change your life forever, leaving you unable to work or take care of your family. San Luis Obispo motorcycle accident lawyer Earl A. Conaway, III can help you get the compensation you need to pay your bills and rebuild your life. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle collision and want to discuss your case with someone who will fight for your rights, call us at (805) 546-8797 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.