It is getting warmer in Tennessee, which means more people will be out riding their motorcycles. Other motorists on the roads will therefore need to increase their awareness to avoid crashing with into these motorcyclists. Motorcycles are much smaller than other vehicles on the road and it is easier for people driving cars and trucks to miss them in their blind spots or underestimate their speeds. Due to these facts, there are many motorcycle accidents every year.
Unfortunately, one such wreck recently occurred, resulting in a motorcyclist losing his life. A man driving a pickup truck swerved into oncoming traffic in order to avoid hitting a vehicle stopped in the lane in which he was travelling. It is unclear why that vehicle was stopped, but when the truck driver swerved he hit the motorcyclist travelling in the opposite lane of traffic. The motorcyclist was wearing a helmet, but the impact of the crash killed him. The Tennessee Highway Patrol stated that criminal charges are pending, although it is unclear at this time who will be charges.
In any crash there is a chance that the people involved will be injured or killed. However, the likelihood of that occurring when a motorcycle is involved is greater. Motorcyclists do not have the same protections as those driving in other vehicles, and many times a motorcyclist will suffer severe injuries as a result. Motorcyclists who are injured in a wreck caused by another may be entitled to compensation for their damages, though, which may include medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
As we approach the warmer months, drivers in Tennessee will need to be even more cautious about motorcyclists on the roads. Motorcycle accidents generally do not end well for motorcyclists, while the driver of the car causing the accident may not suffer any injuries at all. However, a driver who causes one of these accidents may be required to compensate the victim for all damages associated with the accident. For this reason, it is important that motorcycle accident victims discuss their cases with a qualified legal advocate who may be able to help them build a claim that leads to a just and favorable outcome.
Source: WATE, “Motorcyclist killed in Maynardville crash,” May 7, 2018