An improper lane change made by a commercial truck driver is being blamed for a recent fatal motorcycle accident on Interstate 75 in Henry County, GA.
According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the accident occurred when a motorcyclist traveling northbound was struck by a truck near exit 75 in Henry County.According to initial reports, a southbound truck crossed the median, and crashed into the motorcycle, killing the motorcyclist.So far, it appears that an improper lane change by the tractor-trailer may have started the fatal chain of events, although the investigation is still pending, and no charges have been filed against the tractor-trailer driver.
Every year, more than 4,000 motorcyclists are killed in accidents, and many of these motorcycle accidents are caused by motorists who are inebriated, driving recklessly, or driving while distracted.
One of the major threats facing motorcyclists involves intoxicated car drivers.Motorists operating a car under the influence of alcohol or drugs are a serious threat to motorcyclists because their vision and reaction times are reduced.Therefore, not only are they less likely to see a motorcycle rider, but when they do, they are often unable to react quickly.
Speeding automobiles also create dangerous situations for motorcyclists.The faster a car is traveling, the less ability a driver has to make the kind of emergency driving maneuver that is required to avoid hitting a motorcycle.
Perhaps the most dangerous situation for a motorcyclist occurs when they come in the vicinity of a distracted driver.Electronic distractions at the wheel such as cell phones are rampant on Atlanta highways.And it’s not just car operators who may be distracted, but also truck drivers who may be distracted by their dashboard computers and GPS devices.A motorcycle has a much narrower frame than a full size auto, and is easy to miss when a motorist or truck driver is distracted.
If you are operating a car or truck, be particularly careful of motorcyclists, especially in the summer months.Allow extra stopping time, and turn off all electronic devices that may cause you to be distracted.And if you or a loved one has been injured while on a bike, contact our Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyers today for a free consultation.
Stay Safe!