Indiana Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Explains How Distracted Driving Puts Riders at Risk
Motorcycle accidents caused by distracted drivers are unfortunately all too common, posing significant risks to riders. Drivers are responsible for remaining vigilant and constantly scanning their surroundings for all road users, including motorcyclists. Failing to do so can result in severe consequences since motorcycles are often less visible than larger vehicles and require extra attention from drivers.
If you are riding your motorcycle and are in an accident with a distracted driver, the experienced Indiana motorcycle accident lawyers at Keller & Keller are here to guide you through the necessary steps to protect your legal rights.
Driver Distractions and Dangers to Motorcycle Riders
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines distracted driving as any activity that takes your attention away from the task of safe driving. In 2021, distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives. This statistic proves that distracted driving is not only dangerous but deadly.
There are many dangers posed by distracted driving that have a significant impact on a motorcycle rider’s safety. The following distractions can put others on the road, such as motorcyclists, at risk for an accident:
- Texting or using a phone. Texting while driving takes a driver's eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, and mind off driving. This significantly reduces reaction time, increasing the likelihood of motorcycle collisions.
- Eating or drinking. Activities such as eating or drinking cause drivers to take their hands off the wheel and increase the risk of an accident. Spilled food or drinks may also lead to sudden swerving or loss of control of the vehicle.
- Adjusting controls or entertainment systems. Fiddling with the radio, GPS, or other controls diverts attention away from the road, making it more likely for a driver to miss seeing a motorcycle.
- Talking to passengers. Conversations with passengers can distract drivers, leading them to miss important visual cues, such as motorcycles in their vicinity. In addition, dealing with children or pets in the vehicle can also distract a driver’s attention from the road.
Defensive Riding Tips for Bikers
While it is not possible to prevent every motorcycle accident, there are certain tips to consider that can help reduce the risk of being in a crash, such as:
- Stay visible. Wear brightly colored clothing and use reflective gear to increase visibility, especially when riding in low-light conditions.
- Wear protective gear. In the event of an accident, wearing protective gear such as a motorcycle helmet, boots, and padded clothing can help minimize your injuries.
- Maintain safe distances. Leave ample space between your motorcycle and other vehicles, so you have time to react in case of sudden stops or maneuvers.
- Anticipate hazards. Be mindful of potential hazards such as intersections, blind spots, and sudden lane changes by other vehicles.
- Stay alert. Prioritize staying attentive and focused while operating your motorcycle. Avoid distractions and remain fully engaged with your surroundings to promptly react to changing road conditions and potential hazards.
In addition, watch out for indications of distracted driving, such as minor drifting within lanes, delayed responses to traffic signals, lowered head position, irregular maneuvers, and varying speeds.
Our Indiana Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Will Fight to Protect Your Rights
If you are injured in a motorcycle crash caused by a distracted driver, an Indiana motorcycle accident lawyer at Keller & Keller can provide invaluable assistance. Our lawyers understand the bias towards motorcycle riders. We can help overcome this bias by presenting evidence, advocating for motorcyclists’ rights, and ensuring fair treatment in all legal proceedings.
If you or a family member have been injured in an Indiana motorcycle crash caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to the following types of compensation from the liable party:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and loss of future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
If your loved one was killed due to a distracted driver, you could recover wrongful death damages such as medical bills, hospital expenses, funeral and burial costs, loss of companionship, loss of parental guidance, and more.
