Remember to watch out for motorcyclists and share the road
May marks the unofficial beginning of motorcycle riding season in Ontario, and it's a perfect time to emphasize the importance of sharing the road with motorcyclists to prevent serious and fatal crashes. As drivers, it's essential to remain alert and cautious around motorcycles, as they are smaller and less visible than other vehicles.
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents happen frequently in Canada, and the consequences can be devastating. For example, Ontario recently experienced one of the worst riding seasons in over 10 years. In 2020, 42 motorcyclists were killed on roads patrolled by the Ontario Provincial Police. In 2019, there were 27 fatalities.
At Smitiuch Injury Law, we fight for the rights of injured riders. Our experienced Toronto motorcycle accident lawyers understand the terrible impact reckless drivers have on bikers and their families. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in the Greater Toronto Area, contact Smitiuch Injury Law for a free case consultation to learn more about how we can help you.
Common types of Toronto motorcycle accidents
- Left-turn accidents. This type of crash accounts for a significant portion of motorcycle accidents and can be particularly dangerous for the biker. Left-turn accidents occur when a car making a left turn hits a motorcycle traveling straight through the intersection. To avoid a left-turn accident, always make sure to check your surroundings before turning, signal your intentions, and proceed with caution.
- Lane switching accidents. This type of accident occurs when a driver fails to check their blind spot and hits a motorcycle while changing lanes. To prevent a lane-switching accident, always use your signals when changing lanes, double-check your blind spots, and be aware of any motorcyclists around you.
- Rear-end accidents. A common factor in rear-end motorcycle accidents is tailgating. Larger cars and trucks typically can't stop as quickly as a bike can. Therefore, if the car, van, or truck is following the motorcycle too closely and the biker has to make a sudden stop, the tailgating driver can hit the motorcycle's rear tire, causing a serious accident. In this type of accident, motorcyclists are often thrown from their bikes and suffer severe injuries. To avoid a rear-end motorcycle accident, always leave plenty of room between your vehicle and the motorcycle in front of you, and be prepared to stop suddenly.
- Head-on collisions. A head-on collision between a motorcycle and a car can be catastrophic for the rider. These accidents often occur when a driver veers into the oncoming lane, or they are traveling the wrong way down a one-way street. To avoid a head-on collision, always stay in your designated lane, and follow traffic signs and signals. Never drive under unsafe conditions. Drinking and driving, as well as fatigued driving, can increase the risk of this type of crash.
- Intersection accidents. Motorcycle accidents at intersections can happen when a driver fails to yield the right-of-way to a biker or when they fail to notice a vehicle turning in front of them. To avoid an intersection accident, always be aware of your surroundings, follow traffic signals, and make sure to "look twice" for motorcycles.
- Speeding accidents. Speeding is a common factor in many motorcycle accidents. Speed greatly increases injury severity, and drivers who speed may not have enough time to react to a motorcyclist in their path. To avoid causing a crash, always obey posted speed limits and drive slower in bad weather.
- Distracted driving accidents. Driving distracted and not taking the time to properly look around for motorcycles before turning or changing lanes are frequent factors in motorcycle accidents. Drivers must slow down and take the time to look for motorcycles to prevent crashes.
Contact a Toronto motorcycle accident lawyer
If you were injured or a loved one died in a GTA motorcycle accident, it's important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. After a motorcycle accident, evidence can quickly disappear, and memories can fade. Additionally, Ontario's legal system has strict deadlines, and missing these deadlines can prevent you from receiving the compensation you deserve.
At Smitiuch Injury Law, we have a track record of success representing injured motorcyclists and their families. We fight to get our clients the compensation and justice they deserve. To learn more about how we can help you after a motorcycle crash, contact us today to schedule a free case consultation.
