According to the Tennessee Highway Safety Office, 42% of fatal motorcycle crashes happen at intersections. How is that possible when most intersections are equipped with traffic control signs and devices, such as stop signs and traffic lights?
The answer is that motorcycles can be difficult for drivers to see. Drivers both consciously and subconsciously look for other vehicles. When they scan the road, whether they’re at intersections or any other part of a roadway, they look for cars, trucks, SUVs, commercial vehicles, and other four-wheeled vehicles. Although seeing motorcycles isn’t out of the ordinary, it’s not always something they’re consciously looking for.
That lack of attention and focus puts motorcyclists at extreme risk. Motorcyclists face the greatest risks when drivers turn left, such as intersections where they have green lights but no green turn arrow. They may begin turning left because they don’t see passenger vehicles approaching them, not realizing that motorcycles are barreling towards them.
When that happens, motorcyclists often have to pump their bikes to avoid a more serious collision, or they may be unable to stop or swerve in time to avoid direct impact. Another significant risk is drivers running red lights after scanning cross streets. They may believe that no vehicles are approaching, but they don’t see the motorcyclists who are approaching the intersections at the same time.
Whether you’re a driver or a motorcyclist, it’s important to be extra cautious at intersections. They’re one of the most common places for serious accidents to occur. And if you’re ever injured in an accident at an intersection or anywhere else that was caused by a negligent driver, the Nashville motorcycle accident lawyers at Ponce Law want to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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