Motorcycle accidents are more common because they don’t provide the same protection against impact that cars do. Motorcyclists get a bad rap for driving recklessly, but more often than not, it’s the car drivers fault.
In the case of a motorbike accident, the injured party has coverage insurance in the policy of the driver who was at fault. Determining who was at fault can sometimes be difficult. A motorcycle accident lawyer here in Oklahoma can determine whether the driver acted within the law.
What causes motorcycle accidents?
One of the top reasons for a motorcycle accident is poor visibility. Car drivers fail to notice the smaller vehicles and may turn into them when making left turns or right while the biker is trying to overtake, causing a collision.
Other common causes of accidents include a car driver cutting a corner in front of the biker, who then must swerve to avoid a head-on collision, and changing lanes or doing a U-turn into the path of a biker.
Lack of attention to other road users, texting, and using a cell-phone while driving are frequent reasons for this distraction. Accidents can also occur when the biker weaves in and out of the traffic or drives too fast.
Oklahoma Motorcycle Law
To comply with the law, motorcycle riders must have an M endorsement on their driver’s license. They must be over 16 to carry a passenger, and if they are under 18, they must wear a helmet. However, if an older person doesn’t wear one and they are injured, they may be deemed negligent.
Those under 17 years are also required to complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course, or they cannot get a license. Two rear-view mirrors of at least three in diameter are required for the bike, as well as protective goggles for the biker.
Motorcyclists are sometimes thought of as reckless drivers, but in more cases, the car driver is at fault. Complying with the law and taking a motorcycle safety course can help bikers avoid accidents.
