Motorcycle Intersection and Stoplight Accidents

Accidents occur more frequently in places like intersections and stoplights where two road points intersect. Considered as one of the most dangerous kinds of motorcycle accidents, intersection accidents occur more often due to distracted driving, recklessness, speeding, intoxication, and neglect of traffic signals. Although added safety measures are enforced in Michigan, it was reported that almost 30 percent of car crashes occur in 20 intersections in the state.

A motorcycle accident is a very serious matter. If you have been injured, it is with utmost importance that you consult a Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer who can help you decide and take the best steps to take. A motorcycle accident lawyer has full knowledge of your legal rights and can give you the right information regarding your case.

What are the Causes of Intersection Motorcycle Accidents?

Many factors increase the likelihood of accidents in intersections. Motorcycle riders should familiarize themselves with these causes to take extra precaution and to avoid intersection accidents altogether. Motorcycle intersection accidents are considered to be one of the most fatal types of crashes, often resulting in death and serious injuries. Here are the most common causes of motorcycle intersection accidents.

  • Neglect of traffic signs especially red and yellow traffic lights
  • Driving when intoxicated
  • Distracted driving – internal and external
  • Failure to yield
  • The sudden crossing of pedestrians
  • Defects
  • Swift or sudden maneuvering or turning
  • Being under the influence of drugs while driving
  • Left turn collisions
  • Not practicing defensive driving

Statistics for Michigan Motorcycle Accidents

In Michigan alone, there have been hundreds of thousands of accident cases reported each year. Between a decade from 2008 and 2018, the highest rate was reported in to be 316,057 in 2008.

Around 74, 568 of these cases resulted in injuries, and 915 are considered fatal crashes. The statistics decreased in the following years. In 2017, however, there have been 312,798 total crashes, 75,838 of which resulted in injuries.

As for motorcycle intersection accidents, it was reported that the highest rates of intersection accidents occur in Macomb, Oakland and in Southeast Michigan. In 2015, 186 accidents were reported in the Pontiac Trail and M-5/ Martin Parkway, Commerce Township intersection.

According to a study conducted by the Michigan Department of State Police, there is a 90% chance of probability of injury resulting from motorcycle accidents. Between 2002 and 2004, there was an average of 6.2 % intersection related motorcycle accidents in Michigan.

At the same time, 23. 5% of motorcycle accidents considered to be fatal were reported to have happened in controlled intersections, or intersections with yield, traffic, or stop signals. As a hazardous location, intersections must be given extra safety precautions by motorists.

What is Defensive Driving and How Can it Save Your Life?

Defensive driving involves essential skills that can possibly avoid serious and fatal accidents on the road. According to Safe Practices for Motor Vehicle Operations, ANSI/ASSE Z15.1, defensive driving means to drive while saving money, time, and lives, regardless of the condition that you are in. Defensive driving aims to get ahead of the situation by anticipating danger while also reducing the possible risk of a crash. Measures such as being compliant to the “two-second rule” and assured clear distance ahead rules can are examples of defensive driving.

If you find yourself in a situation that involves a motorcycle accident, especially in an intersection in the Michigan Area, you must find yourself a competent and trusted motorcycle accident lawyer right away. Being in a motorcycle accident is traumatic and stressful. At the very least, the best thing you can do is to make sure that you have a strong case and the best financial compensation for your injuries. The Clark Law Office in Okemos, Michigan has a number of motorcycle accident lawyers who are experts at handling motorcycle accident cases.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney from The Clark Law Office

The most common difficulty when it comes to motorcycle accidents is the lack of witnesses. If your motorcycle is not insured appropriately, it may be difficult, even impossible to get compensation in Michigan since it is a no-fault state. Your best option is to contact a motorcycle accident attorney who can explain to you all the feasible alternatives for your case.

The Clark Law Office has motorcycle accident legal experts, so you can be sure that your case will be in good hands. Contact a Michigan personal injury lawyer now.

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