While it is common for Washington residents to have their own cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles, there are not as many individuals who own and operate motorcycles. There are a myriad of reasons that people elect to driver four-wheeled automobiles instead of two-wheeled motorcycles, including but not limited to safety concerns and securing additional licensing to legally operate one. For those reasons and more, motorcycles can be a rare sight on roads and highways throughout the state.
Because motorcycles are relatively uncommon, they are not always as easily spotted by other drivers. The simple fact that vehicle drivers may not expect to see motorcycles makes them less likely to look for them in blind spots. This problem relates to visual recognition and the ability of drivers to find motorcycles on the roads.
In addition to the failure of some drivers to look for motorcycles and their riders, other drivers may fail to fully check for motorcycles before making driving maneuvers. A driver may check their mirror for another car but may miss a small and steerable motorcycle between their blind spot and mirror coverage as they make a dangerous and negligent lane change.
Drivers can cause accidents motorcycles under the same conditions that they cause accidents with other four-wheeled vehicles. Distractions, speeding, and other driving negligence can lead to drivers hitting motorcycles that they did not even know were close to them.
Motorcycle accidents can be devasting to victims and their families. While motorcyclists can choose to make themselves as noticeable as possible, it is also up to other drivers to be aware and respectful to all parties with which they share the roads. When accidents occur, victims of motorcycle accidents may have legal options for seeking the financial compensation that they deserve.
