When a motorcycle accident happens, one of the first issues that must be addressed is who was at fault. That determination plays a major role in how claims are handled and whether compensation for a personal injury from the incident is available. Fault can be difficult to sort out, especially when each side has a different story. That’s why it helps to understand the common reasons people are found at fault in these cases and how those findings are made.
Left Turns At Intersections
One of the most frequent causes of motorcycle accidents involves a driver making a left turn across the path of an oncoming motorcycle. In many of these cases, the driver claims they didn’t see the motorcycle or misjudged its speed. Even though the motorcyclist may have had the right of way, fault often depends on who had a legal duty to yield and whether the turn was safe based on traffic conditions.
Lane Changes And Blind Spots
Another common situation occurs when a driver changes lanes without checking thoroughly for a motorcycle. Because bikes are smaller than cars, they can easily be missed in a mirror or blind spot. When an accident happens during a lane change, the driver making the move is usually the one being evaluated for fault. The key question is whether the lane change was done safely and with enough awareness of surrounding vehicles.
Speeding Or Reckless Driving
Motorcycle riders are sometimes blamed for accidents due to alleged speeding or aggressive maneuvers, even when they were hit by another vehicle. In some cases, both parties may share fault, especially if the motorcyclist was weaving through traffic or going well above the posted limit. Fault isn’t always one-sided, so each person’s actions are examined closely to determine how the crash occurred.
Distracted Driving
Drivers who are texting, adjusting controls, or otherwise distracted can easily miss a motorcycle in traffic. If a driver drifts into another lane or fails to stop in time because they weren’t paying attention, fault may rest with them. Phone records, dash cams, or witness accounts can be useful in these situations to prove distraction.
Weather And Road Conditions
Sometimes, accidents happen due to slick roads, poor visibility, or uneven pavement. Even though weather and road conditions are beyond anyone’s control, that doesn’t mean fault disappears. If one party failed to adjust their driving or riding for the conditions—such as braking too late or speeding through rain—they may be held responsible. These details matter when looking at the bigger picture.
Determining fault after a motorcycle crash requires careful review of the facts, including road conditions, vehicle positions, traffic signals, and witness statements. At Warner & Fitzmartin – Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand how challenging these cases can be. If you’re looking for a Lake Worth, FL motorcycle accident lawyer to help evaluate your situation and guide your next steps, we’re ready to support you. Contact us today to get your case started.