Tampa Lane Change Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Making a lane change is a routine matter for those of us who drive everyday. Unfortunately, when a lane change is made recklessly or without paying attention to other vehicles on the road, the consequences can be catastrophic. For example, a car or truck making an improper lane change may easily strike a motorcycle and send its ride flying off their bike.
If this describes your situation, or that of a close family member, the experienced Tampa lane change motorcycle accident lawyer can help you seek compensation from the negligent driver. All Florida motorists have a legal duty to share the road with motorcycles. And when they ignore that responsibility, they can and should be held accountable for their reckless actions.
How Lane Change Motorcycle Accidents Occur in Florida
Changing lanes is something most of us do without conscious thought. In practice, this can lead to some bad habits developing over time. Indeed, most lane change motorcycle accidents are not the result of intent or malice, but simply inattention. Here are just a few examples:
- A motorist fails to check their mirrors before changing lanes and they strike a motorcycle in their blind spot.
- A motorist fails to activate their turn signal so the motorcycle in the destination lane does not know they need to slow down to make room.
- A motorist is weaving across traffic unpredictably because they are impaired due to alcohol.
- A motorist is too quick to execute a lane change during bad weather.
When a car or truck driver does hit a motorcycle during a lane change, you can expect them to start making excuses almost immediately. We often hear stories from clients of drivers claiming, “I didn’t see you!” Even worse, the driver may try to shift blame onto the motorcycle even when the rider did nothing wrong.
Contact Anderson & Anderson in Tampa Today
All Tampa-area motorcyclists need to be aware of their surroundings, particularly when it comes to lane changes. While not all such accidents are avoidable, you can greatly reduce your chances of a collision by adhering to basic safety principles. This includes engaging in defensive driving when passing through another vehicle’s blind spot, always properly signaling your own lane changes, and avoiding larger vehicles like semi-trucks when possible.
Of course, even the most safety-conscious motorcyclist is at the mercy of other drivers executing improper lane changes. So if you are involved in a motorcycle lane change accident, keep the following things in mind:
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if you are able to get up and walk away from the accident.
- Call the police and get a copy of any official accident report.
- Document all of your injuries and their recovery–this includes psychological and emotional trauma.
Finally, do not hesitate to contact a skilled Tampa lane change motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible following your crash. The Florida personal injury lawyers at Anderson & Anderson will be happy to review your case and advise you of your options for seeking compensation. Call us today at 813-251-0072 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
