Failing to see a motorcycle can lead to a fatal accident

Too many Florida drivers don’t see motorcycles until it’s too late. There are fewer motorcycles on the road relative to the number of other vehicles, so many drivers don’t anticipate seeing one. Motorcycles are smaller than cars or trucks, so they are sometimes harder to see. Blind spots – areas not covered by the mirrors – and obstructions such as pillars in cars can contribute to the problem. When glare or precipitation are present the risk of not seeing motorcycles is increased.

The problem is a serious one. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in the majority of collisions between motorcycles and other vehicle types, it was the driver of the other vehicle who violated the right-of-way of the motorcyclist. And when a collision occurs, it is usually the motorcycle rider who gets the worst of it. A collision between a motorcycle and a car or truck is often fatal for the rider.

When a motorcycle rider is killed due to the negligence of another driver, his or her loved ones have the right to bring a wrongful death lawsuit and recover compensation. Damages that can be recovered include loss of companionship, final medical expenses and funeral expenses.

If the victim was providing for a family, their spouse and children may be left in a desperate financial situation. Fortunately, in a Florida wrongful death lawsuit damages can also be recovered for loss of financial support.

Successfully prosecuting a lawsuit arising out of a fatal accident requires determination, experience and a sophisticated knowledge of the law in this area. A family grieving the loss of a loved one in a motorcycle accident can benefit from consulting an experienced wrongful death lawyer.

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “Motorist Awareness,” accessed July 30, 2016