Who Is at Fault in Most Motorcycle Accidents?

In the aftermath of an auto accident involving a motorcycle, police consider the actions of both motorists when determining fault. Who is at fault in most motorcycle accidents? In the majority of these accidents, the car driver is at fault. Let’s look at why that is.

How Did It Happen?

Many auto accidents involving motorcycles stem from improper lane changes. Drivers of passenger vehicles are responsible for checking their blind spots every time they merge, which can be frustrating. When lots of motorcyclists are on the road, car drivers often get aggravated at having to accommodate them all—and road rage does nobody any good.

Nearly half of all motorcycle collisions happen during left-hand turns. Motorcycles are obviously much smaller than cars, and it’s harder to see them coming, especially if they’re speeding into the intersection. Occasionally, a motorcyclist will assume fault for an accident if they were speeding or if they ran a red light. However, the driver of the larger vehicle always has a responsibility to look out for smaller ones.

Is the Car Driver at Fault?

Most of the time, the car driver is at fault. Car drivers are less likely to be killed in an accident; the steel cage of the passenger vehicle offers them extra protection. Many motorcycle accidents are caused by a car driver’s recklessness or lack of attention. Car drivers are always responsible for checking the conditions around them and keeping an eye on their blind spots, and that goes double when there are motorcyclists on the road. If your car was involved in a motorcycle crash and you do not believe you were at fault, contact a motor vehicle accident lawyer and lay out all the facts. Rossman Law Group has years of experience with auto accident cases and can offer an expert opinion.

Is the Motorcyclist at Fault?

Most of the time, motorcyclists will not be at fault. Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to be killed in multi-vehicle collisions than car drivers. The larger vehicle—the car—causes more damage and can be directly responsible for serious injury or loss of life.

However, motorcyclists must obey the rules of the road just like car drivers. For example, if you and the police are able to prove that the motorcyclist ran a red light, they may be at fault. Motorcyclists are also not exempt from DUI laws. If a post-accident drug test is performed and the motorcyclist tests positive for alcohol or other illicit substances, call a motor vehicle accident lawyer to discuss possible next steps.

If you are involved in a collision with a motorcyclist, keep all the facts in mind as the insurance companies determine fault. Who is at fault in most motorcycle accidents? Most of the time, it’s the car driver, but motorcyclists and car drivers alike must stay aware of their surroundings at all times while on the road.