Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Alaska
You have to handle many dangers on the roads in Alaska, such as being hit by a left-turning vehicle and dealing with hidden blind spots in new SUVs. In the U.S., distracted driving leads to the deaths of over 3,100 people and injuries to 424,000 people annually. When DUI risks and black ice are added, the danger increases.
Left-Turn Accidents Involving Motorcycles in Alaska
Many times, you have to drive through intersections because drivers make left turns without yielding, and this action accounts for almost half of two-vehicle motorcycle crashes in the country. It is estimated that in nearly half of motorcycle fatalities, the rider was struck by a car turning left. Usually, T-bone accidents happen when someone misjudges who should go first or fails to brake in time.
When this happens at Anchorage’s busy intersections or along the Parks Highway, the risks increase. When deciding if a left-turn driver broke the law, Alaska’s courts use AS 28.35.045 to check if they acted in a way that created an unjustifiable risk. You must demonstrate that the other driver put you in danger by causing the accident.
Blind Spot Accidents: Why Motorcyclists Are at Risk
Because of the wide blind zones from mirrors and pillars, your slim body can be hidden from view. According to the Hurt Report, nearly half of multi-vehicle accidents are caused by obstructed views. Seasonal glare and rain make the situation worse, and ADAS systems can not always spot motorcyclists. Under AS 09.17.060, you are still allowed to recover money even if you contributed to the accident; your percentage of fault reduces the amount you get.
Distracted Driving & Motorcycle Crashes
You might not think a brief text is essential, but it contributes to over 3,100 deaths and 424,000 injuries annually in the United States. When a driver looks at their phone or GPS, they are not fulfilling their duty as required by AS 28.35.045. If you are hit by a driver who is texting, their careless behavior forms the basis for your claim.
Drunk or Impaired Driving and Fatal Motorcycle Crashes
Even a short message can be harmful because it distracts. Distracted driving leads to more than 3,100 deaths and 424,000 injuries each year in the United States. If you get distracted by changing your heated grips or a coffee spill in a cold moment, the consequences can be severe.
According to AS 28.35.045, if a driver does not avoid an unnecessary risk due to inattention, they have broken their duty of care. Your Alaska motorcycle accident lawyer can claim negligence if a distracted driver sideswipes you or makes a turn without looking.
Hazardous Road Conditions in Alaska
When pavement freezes and thaws, it breaks apart and creates potholes, while black ice is created. Gravel from logging trucks on the roads causes more instability. Under AS 28.35.080, you must report an accident right away, but you can also sue DOT&PF or a municipality if their negligent maintenance caused your crash. With comparative fault, you can get fair compensation for your injuries by taking into account your actions while riding.
If you are aware of your rights under AS 28.35.045, AS 09.17.060, AS 28.35.030 and AS 28.35.080, you can receive the maximum compensation. Prepare yourself, drive carefully and get advice from a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer.
Featured Image Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/motorcycle-lying-on-the-road-12002262/
