The most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Tennessee

Most motorcycle enthusiasts recognize the risks and dangers they face when out on the road. Without any protective structure, a motorcycle accident can result in very serious injuries to the rider and passenger. 

If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash that was not your fault, you should have a Smyrna, TN motorcycle accident lawyer to help get a fair settlement. Without an attorney, insurance companies might pressure you to take an inadequate settlement. These are some of the most common reasons motorcycle accidents happen in Tennessee.

What are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Tennessee?

Understanding what causes motorcycle crashes can help both riders and drivers take steps to prevent them. These are some of the most common ways serious motorcycle accidents happen on Tennessee roads.

Unsafe lane changes

When drivers aren’t careful about checking their blind spot, they can easily collide with a motorcycle. This type of crash often happens on highways and multi-lane roads when a driver merges without seeing the smaller vehicle next to them.

Rear-end accidents

When drivers are following too closely, a sudden stop can mean serious injury or even death to a motorcycle rider. Unlike car occupants, motorcyclists have no bumper or airbag to protect them during impact. These accidents often involve:

• A distracted or impatient driver tailgating the motorcycle
• Sudden braking in traffic that leaves no time to react
• Inattentiveness in stop-and-go traffic or at intersections

Even a low-speed rear-end crash can throw a motorcyclist off the bike and cause long-term injuries.

Inexperience

New drivers are more likely to make unsafe decisions on the road that could compromise the safety of motorcycle riders. This includes sudden turns, panic stops, or failure to yield.

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

A drunk driver is unlikely to see a much smaller biker on the road and could cut him off or run him off the road. Driving under the influence is one of the most dangerous behaviors on the road and frequently leads to catastrophic injuries or fatalities for motorcyclists.

Speeding

This is one of the leading causes of all vehicle crashes. The higher the speed at the time of the collision, the more severe the motorcyclist’s injuries are likely to be. Speed reduces reaction time and increases stopping distance, making it harder for drivers to avoid collisions with motorcycles.

Dangerous road conditions

Potholes or debris in the road can increase the chance of a motorcyclist losing control of their vehicle. In some cases, poor road maintenance may even lead to a claim against a city or state agency if negligence played a role.

Distracted driving

Even with laws banning hand-held cellphone use while driving, many drivers will still check texts or make phone calls while behind the wheel. In the few seconds this takes, the driver could fail to see a motorcyclist in their path. Other common distractions that increase crash risk include:

• Adjusting music or climate controls
• Eating or drinking while driving
• Interacting with passengers
• Looking at a GPS application

These distractions are especially dangerous on roads with high traffic volume or near intersections, where motorcycles can easily be missed.

What to expect when filing a motorcycle accident claim

Filing a motorcycle accident claim in Tennessee isn’t always as simple as reporting the crash to insurance. Insurance companies often treat motorcyclists unfairly, assuming the rider was at fault, even when the evidence proves otherwise. That’s why it’s important to take steps early on to protect your rights.

After receiving medical treatment, your next move should be to speak with a personal injury lawyer who understands how motorcycle crash cases work. At Weir & Kestner Injury Lawyers, we investigate the crash, collect evidence, and deal directly with the insurance companies so you don’t have to.

A successful claim can help you recover:

• Compensation for medical expenses, including hospital bills and rehabilitation
• Lost wages if you missed work or can’t return to your job
• Pain and suffering, especially for long-term injuries or emotional trauma
• Property damage to your bike and riding gear

You shouldn’t have to fight the insurance company alone. We’ll guide you through every step of the claim process and help you build the strongest case possible. Call today for a free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Smyrna, TN.

Were you injured in a Tennessee motorcycle accident?

There’s no need to suffer alone due to someone else’s negligence. The experienced motorcycle accident lawyers at Weir & Kestner Injury Attorneys focus on providing the best possible representation to victims of motorcycle accidents.

Contact us online or call our office directly at (615) 220-4180 to schedule your free consultation. We’ll arrange a time to meet with you at one of our offices in Smyrna, Nashville, Murfreesboro, or Chattanooga, whichever location is most convenient for you.