Some say that riding a motorcycle is a terrific experience. Riders can also feel good about the fact that motorcycles are an eco-friendly alternative to cars. But there is one major downside to riding a motorcycle, and that’s a lack of safety.
A motorcycle is a lot smaller than most other vehicles on the road. It’s easy to get lost in drivers’ blind spots, making an accident likely to occur. And if an accident happens, riders don’t have the protection the shell of a car affords. Therefore, they can end up getting seriously injured.
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you need an excellent lawyer to represent you. Dan Pruitt has years of experience working as a motorcycle accident lawyer in Greenville, South Carolina. Here are some ways he can help you.
What are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
There are many dangerous behaviors that can happen on the road to cause an accident. These include:
1. Falling into a Driver’s Blindside
Because motorcycles are so small, it’s easy for them to fall into the driver’s blindside. A car may get over without seeing them. If this occurs, the driver can end up driving the motorcycle off the road.
2. Weaving in and out of Lanes
Motorcycle accidents aren’t always the driver’s fault. Motorcyclists often weave in and out of lanes to get to their destinations sooner. This type of riding is illegal in most states, as it is incredibly dangerous.
3. Not Providing Enough Buffer
When a driver drives behind another car, they should provide a two to three-second safety buffer. Because motorcycles are smaller, the safety buffer should increase to three to four seconds. However, many drivers don’t adjust accordingly and end up following motorcycles too closely.
4. Equipment Failure
Equipment failure can occur in motorcycles and other vehicles. If parts break down on the road, it can cause an accident. In these instances, the car manufacturer or mechanic may be to blame.
5. Debris in the Road
A motorcycle’s small size makes it exceptionally vulnerable to debris in the road. If the debris is because of a nearby construction site, the city or the contractor may be liable for damages.
6. Inclement Weather
Slick streets and poor visibility increase the risk of accidents. Riders and drivers must be especially careful on the road when these conditions exist.
7. Disobeying the Rules of the Road
Both riders and drivers must obey the rules of the road by not driving distracted, drunk or fatigued, staying within the speed limit, and paying attention to traffic signs
What are Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries?
Motorcycle accidents are very dangerous, especially for motorcycle riders. Here are some injuries that are commonly sustained.
- TBI’s
- Amputations
- Broken bones
- Road burn
- Internal organ injuries
- Paralysis
- Spinal cord injuries
What are the Motorcycle Laws in South Carolina?
South Carolina has laws in place to protect motorcyclists and drivers that drive near motorcycles. These are:
Helmet Laws
Drivers under 21 are required to wear a Department of Public Safety approved helmet with a neck or chin strap and reflectors on both sides. They must also wear goggles or a face shield unless the helmet is equipped with a face shield.
Drivers 21 and over are not required to wear a helmet, but it is advisable to do so. They must also wear a helmet if they drive into a state where helmets are required for adults.
Licensing
Motorcyclists must have a Class M license from the Department of Motor Vehicles to ride on South Carolina streets.
Other Laws
Here are some other laws that apply:
- Riders must ride on a permanent, regular seat.
- Riders can only carry passengers if the motorcycle is designed for a passenger with a regular permanent seat intended for two people and footrests for both individuals. A second seat attached to the rear or side of the vehicle is also acceptable.
- Riders must ride facing forward with their legs on either side of the bike.
- Riders can not carry a package that will prevent them from keeping both hands on the handlebars.
- Riders can not carry a passenger in a way that obstructs their view or ability to operate the bike.
- Motorcycles cannot pass a vehicle in the same lane that the vehicle is in. They must use a separate lane to go around.
- Motorcycles may ride in their lane, and it is illegal for another vehicle to share that lane with them. However, two motorcycles can ride together in one lane. Over two motorcycles per lane are unsafe.
- Riders can not ride between lanes or between adjacent rows of vehicles.
- Riders can not attach themselves or their bikes to another bike or vehicle on the road while riding.
- Motorcycles must be equipped with a review mirror that provides an adequate view of what’s behind them.
- Headlights must be kept on at all times when riding.
Note, there is a stoplight rule that says the South Carolina motorcyclists may proceed through red lights after being at a full and complete stop for at least 120 seconds. However, riders must be very careful when using this law, as traffic may come from either direction. You also may be ticketed by a cop who doesn’t agree that you were stopped for the appropriate time.
Why Dan Pruitt is the Best Choice for Your South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Representation
Motorcycle accidents can cause serious injuries. You need the best representation you can find.
Dan Pruitt has extensive experience representing victims of motorcycle claims in the Greenville, South Carolina area. He is known for his caring attitude with clients and his aggressive tactics in the courtroom. He will stop at nothing to see that justice is served.
Don’t let negligent drivers get away with endangering motorcyclists on the road. Call Dan Pruitt and schedule a free consultation. He will get you the best potential outcome for your motorcycle accident claim.