How Distracted Drivers Hurt Motorcyclists
In 2015, about 88,000 motorcyclists sustained injuries in crashes, many of which involved a collision with another motor vehicle. Drivers of cars and trucks often crash into motorcyclists because they are not paying adequate attention to the road around them to notice the motorcyclist. Motorcycles are already difficult to see on the road, as they are smaller than most motor vehicles. When a driver adds in an extra distraction, the chances of a collision with a motorcyclist increase even more.
Common Distractions for Chicago Drivers
The following are some common causes of distracted-driving motorcycle accidents:
- Smartphones – Even though it is unlawful for any driver to use a handheld electronic mobile device in any form in Illinois, many drivers violate this law and continue to read or send text-based messages, search the internet, check social media accounts, or make calls from a handheld cell phone. This can cause visual, manual, and cognitive distractions that can cause a driver to crash into a motorcycle.
- Passengers – Passengers of all ages can be a distraction to drivers. While it is not realistic to expect drivers not to engage with passengers, they should always do so in a safe manner that allows them to focus on the road. Conversations with passengers in the front seat can be distracting, and tending to children in the back of a vehicle can be severely distracting as a driver must turn around, reach in the back, or repeatedly look in the rearview mirror.
- Other activities – A driver can engage in many other distracting activities. They include eating, drinking, grooming, putting on makeup, reading, listening to audiobooks, programming a radio or GPS, and many more.
Of course, anything that takes a driver’s eyes or attention away from the road or hands from the wheel can lead them to crash into a motorcycle and cause serious injury.
Learn More about How Our Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Can Help You
At the law firm of
Abels & Annes, P.C., we can help you hold distracted drivers liable for all of your
motorcycle accident injuries.
Please call our office at 312-924-7575 to discuss how – for free – we can help you today.
