Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of motorcycle and motor vehicle accidents. While you may not suffer serious injuries in a “minor” rear-end crash involving two autos, your injuries can be catastrophic or fatal if you are hit in the rear while riding your motorcycle. Fortunately, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries under Virginia law.
Why Motorcycle Rear-End Accidents Can Be Deadly
Motorcycle riders only have their helmets and clothes to protect them if they are rear-ended by a negligent driver. Here are some reasons that these accidents can cause a rider to suffer long-term injuries, like traumatic brain injuries, fractures, paralysis, or death:
- Little reaction time. A motorcycle rider often will not see the danger of a rear-end collision before it occurs and will have little or no time to avoid a crash.
- Additional impact. In a rear-end collision, the motorcyclist can be thrown off his motorcycle into other lanes of traffic. Another unsuspecting driver could also hit him—with disastrous consequences for the rider.
- Force of impact. Drivers who cause a rear-end motorcycle accident are often traveling at faster speeds in an effort to beat a yellow or red light at an intersection. Because of the higher speed, the force of impact will be greater and the injuries more severe.
Five Common Causes of Rear-End Motorcycle Collisions
Rear-end crashes frequently occur at intersections and stop signs. All drivers in Virginia have a duty to maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and the auto or motorcycle in front of them so they can slow or stop suddenly if traffic conditions require this. They often breach this duty when they hit a motorcycle in the rear and are usually presumed to have been negligent in causing the collision.
There are many reasons that motorists rear-end a motorcycle. Some of the most common ones include:
- Distracted driving, such as eating and drinking, reading a GPS, talking on a cell phone, or texting
- Intoxication due to alcohol or drug consumption
- Drowsy driving
- Failure to obey traffic laws
- Aggressive driving, such as tailgating
How to Hold the Negligent Driver Accountable for Your Compensation
Do you want to obtain all the compensation you deserve from the negligent driver who rear-ended you? One of your first steps should be to retain a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer in Norfolk. To learn about our extensive experience in motorcycle crash cases and how we will aggressively fight so that you receive the maximum recovery you are entitled to, call our office to schedule a free consultation today.
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