Utah’s long stretches of highway and beautiful desert scenery make it an ideal state for motorcyclists. While being exposed to the rushing wind and other elements is what makes riding a motorcycle so appealing, it is also what makes it the most dangerous. Motorcycles do not have the same safety features as a car, leaving bikers vulnerable to severe injuries in the event of a collision.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Utah, do not hesitate to contact an experienced attorney. The experienced attorneys at Feller & Wendt, LLC have over 30 years of combined experience helping motorcycle accident victims in Utah recover the maximum amount of compensation possible for their injuries. Our highly-qualified team is committed to taking a personalized approach to every case and fiercely protecting the rights of our clients.
5 Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Utah
Unfortunately, many motorcycle accidents are caused by driver negligence. Often, drivers do not know how to share the road with motorcyclists and may fail to look for or leave room for bikers. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Utah include the following:
Failure to Look Before Turning or Changing Lanes
Many accidents between cars and motorcycles transpire because a car driver makes a left-hand turn while failing to check their surroundings. If a driver fails to notice a biker while taking a turn, they could collide with the motorcycle at high speed, causing severe injuries or even death.
Speeding
The faster a vehicle travels, the more difficult it becomes to control. Speeding can reduce a driver’s reaction time, meaning they have to hit the brakes sooner to make a complete stop. Speeding accidents can be devastating for motorcyclists and may result in life-altering injuries.
Impaired Driving
When someone chooses to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may cause a tragic accident. Drugs and alcohol not only slow a driver’s reaction time but also impairs their ability to focus on their surroundings and apply their common sense behind the wheel.
Lane Filtering
In Utah, it is legal to split lanes on a motorcycle under specific circumstances. On non-freeway roads where traffic is stopped, motorcycles may move between lanes at no faster than 15 mph. Lane splitting or filtering under other circumstances is extremely dangerous as drivers may fail to see motorcyclists moving between lanes.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Hazardous road conditions such as poor weather or road construction can create an unsafe environment for cars and motorcycles alike. Fog can be an incredibly hazardous condition for motorcyclists as it reduces visibility, making it more challenging for other drivers to be aware of motorcycles on the road.
Damages You May Be Eligible to Collect Through a Motorcycle Accident Claim
The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be emotionally, physically, and financially debilitating for victims. Throughout your recovery, you may require hospital stays, many medications and extended time off of work. When you partner with a skilled motorcycle accident attorney, they can help you file a claim so you can be compensated for the losses you have endured. Some of the damages your attorney may be able to help you recover include the following:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wage and earning potential
- Significant disability or disfigurement
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment in life
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
When you partner with an experienced attorney at Feller & Wendt, LLC, they will work with you to understand every aspect of your case and which damages you may be eligible to recover.
Discuss Your Case with a Trusted Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in a Utah motorcycle accident, you should not be forced to for your accident-related expenses. The seasoned attorneys at Feller & Wendt, LLC have achieved favorable outcomes in 95% of their cases and are ready to apply their expertise to your case. Our attorneys are dedicated to addressing each of our client’s unique needs to protect their interests and help them recover the maximum amount of compensation available for their claims. To schedule a free consultation and discuss your case with an experienced attorney, call us today at (801) 499-5060 or complete our online contact form today.
