Arizona Motorcycle Lawyer for Rear-End Car-Motorcycle Accidents
Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of auto accidents. When the vehicle that has been struck is a motorcycle, severe damage and injuries can result.
PHOENIX, AZ, July 16, 2009 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of auto accidents. Usually caused by inattentive or distracted drivers failing to stop in time to prevent a collision with the vehicle in front of them, rear-end collisions make up nearly a third of all injury accidents. They typically occur at intersections, when a car rear-ends a stopped vehicle, but they can also happen when the lead vehicle has to slow or stop suddenly, such as to avoid an object in the road.
Many rear-end collisions involving two cars are "fender benders" which result in minor damage and injuries. However, when the vehicle that has been struck is a motorcycle, there is no such thing as a fender bender. Even a low-speed rear-end collision can cause severe damage and injuries to a motorcyclist. The much-larger car can crush a motorcycle and throw the rider from the bike, causing severe, even life-threatening, injuries.
In most cases, rear-end collisions are the fault of the person in the rear vehicle, as it is a driver's responsibility to leave enough space between himself and the car in front. If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a rear-end collision in Phoenix, Tempe, Gilbert or elsewhere in Maricopa County, you should consult an Arizona motorcycle lawyer to review your case.
Causes of Rear-End Collisions
As mentioned above, the driver of the rear vehicle is generally presumed to be at fault in rear-end accident because he or she did not stop in time to prevent the collision. This may be caused by the following factors:
• Tailgating
Tailgating is the practice of following too close behind the vehicle in front of you. The general rule of thumb is to give at least two seconds between you and the vehicle in front of you. For motorcycles, you should give more, as they often require more stopping distance.
• Distraction
Drivers today face many distractions. These can include talking on a cell phone, texting, emailing, or adjusting the car radio. A driver who is engaged in these activities may take his eyes off the road, leading to a rear-end collision.
• Impairment
Impaired driving typically means driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol (DUI). Impaired drivers often have trouble judging proper stopping distance, putting them at high risk for rear-end collisions.
Dangers for Motorcycle Riders
Motorcycle riders face special dangers in rear-end collisions. These include:
• Longer Stopping Distance
As mentioned above, motorcycles require a longer stopping distance, depending on the type of bike and the experience of the driver. A car driver may not be able to properly judge the room needed for stopping safely, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
• Increased Risk of Injuries
Without a car to protect them, motorcycle riders are at higher risk for injury in all types of accidents. In a rear-end accident, a rider may be thrown over the handlebars onto the pavement or into another vehicle. They are at great risk for potentially life-threatening head injuries, spinal injuries, and broken bones.
Contact an Arizona Motorcycle Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been involved in a rear-end car-motorcycle accident in Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler or elsewhere in Maricopa County, you should seek medical attention immediately, and it is recommended that you contact an experienced Arizona motorcycle attorney to discuss your case. For more information on motorcycle accidents in Arizona, please visit http://www.azmotorcycleaccidentlawyer.com/.
Press Release Contact Information:
Martin Solomon
Solomon & Relihan
Principal at Solomon & Relihan
1951 West Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ
USA 85015
Voice: 602-635-1532
Fax: 602-242-6933
Website: Visit Our Website
