Since motorcycles are smaller than other motor vehicles, they are often less visible and have a higher risk of not being seen.
Over half of all motorcycle accidents happen when drivers turn left in front of a motorcyclist.
Cars Making Left-Hand Turns
The single most dangerous situation for motorcyclists occurs when cars are making left-hand turns. These collisions account for almost half of all accidents involving a motorcycle and car. Usually, the turning car strikes the motorcycle when the motorcycle is:
- going straight through an intersection
- passing the car, or
- trying to overtake the car.
These types of accidents are common between two cars as well, but the motorcycle's smaller size makes it even less visible to the turning vehicle. Motorcycles that pass cars within the same lane are even more vulnerable --cars don't expect, and are often surprised by, such motorcycle maneuvers.
Almost always, a vehicle that hits another vehicle while making a left-hand turn will be found at fault for the accident. However, if the motorcyclist was speeding or in the wrong lane, the motorcyclist may be partly at fault for the accident. In most states, this means the motorcyclist will get less compensation from the driver of the car for injuries and damages caused during an accident. In a few states, the motorcyclists’ behavior could bar recovery altogether.
If you have been hurt, or if someone you care about has been injured or killed in a left-hand turn motorcycle accident, you probably have many questions. Call us at (801) 869-6800 or contact the motorcycle accident personal injury attorneys at Utah Motorcycle Law and Lance Bingham, P.C. for a free case evaluation—we will address all of your concerns. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers are based in Salt Lake City and handle motorcycle crash cases throughout the State of Utah. Our fees are contingent on obtaining a financial recovery, so you won't pay us a dollar unless we get money for you.