With more than 390,000 motorcycles registered throughout the state of Ohio in 2011, seeing motorcycles on the roadways is common for most any driver. Unfortunately the increased number of motorcycle riders also means that motorcycle accidents are more likely to occur.
In 2011 there were more than 3,900 motorcycle collisions reported which accounted for less than 1 percent of all motor vehicle accidents in Ohio. Of these motorcycle accidents, the majority were caused by a motorcycle driver error however more than 200 were also caused by an animal.
Furthermore, more than 450 car collisions were caused by vision obstruction and an additional 18,990 by improper lane change and improper passing. Unfortunately many motorcycle crashes are caused by a motorcyclist riding in a passenger or trucks blind spot and due to a driver failing to check their blind spot.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle blind spot accident, the victim may be entitled to compensation for property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and more.
Call us today at (877) 288-3241 or complete our online contact form and learn more about the legal options that may be available to you from a licensed personal injury attorney at our law firm
Preventing A Motorcycle Blind Spot Accident
With the exception of motorcycles, most all vehicles have a blind spot which is sometimes also known as a no-zone. It is important that motorists watch for motorcyclists and that riders do not put themselves in danger by riding in a vehicles blind spot.
Some ways to prevent a motorcycle blind spot accident include:
Convex/Blind Spot Mirrors Convex mirrors can replace standard side-view mirrors while blind spot mirrors can be placed on standard side-view mirrors to reduce the blind spots.
Adjust Mirrors Accordingly Some drivers simply adjust their side-view mirrors in order to see the edge of their vehicle however drivers should actually adjust them so that they can view their blind spot. Be sure to adjust mirrors properly before getting out on the road.
Slow Down Slowing down can easily bring a driver in your blind spot into view. If you choose this method be sure there is enough distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you.
Do Not Drive in No-Zones Motorists and motorcyclists should be aware of where the blind spots for other vehicles are. A motorcyclist can figure out if they’re in a driver or truckers blind spot by looking into the truck or cars mirrors, if you cannot see the drivers face than you’re probably in their blind spot. Furthermore, large trucks have a blind spot in the rear that can span up to 200 feet.
Skilled riders should also know how to maneuver through heavy traffic which often makes it more difficult to not remain in another motorists blind spot. Driving just ahead of or behind of being adjacent to another motorist during heavy traffic can help reduce the chances of a blind spot accident.