True or false: Making a left turn is one of the most dangerous things a motorcyclist can do on the road.
The answer may surprise you, but that’s true.
According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Association, turning left is considered a “leading critical pre-crash event.” Statistics show that nearly 25 percent of all crashes involve a driver or motorcyclist turning left. Post-accident evaluations reveal that left turns are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, as drivers of other vehicles often have difficulty judging the speed at which oncoming motorcycles are traveling. Fatalities skyrocket upon impact when turning left, as motorcyclists are fully exposed on the road with no surrounding metal or steel to absorb the shock or force of the crash.
Awareness of the danger in making left turns is the first step in helping motorcyclists to stay safer on the road. The most important precautionary step for drivers to avoid hitting a motorcycle while turning left is arguably the simplest: always make sure that there is no risk of hitting oncoming traffic, and use an abundance of caution when motorcycles are involved in the traffic mix. “Better safe than sorry” definitely applies. To further minimize risk, check your blind spots, avoid cutting corners, and, first and foremost, use your turn signal without fail. These small precautionary steps can be the difference between life and death while making a left turn.
Contact a Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you know has recently been in a motorcycle accident in Maryland, you know firsthand the financial toll these accidents can take. Whether your burden stems from lost wages or medical expenses, Maryland law entitles you to file suit to recoup these costs— and additional damages as well, depending on the details of your situation. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can answer your questions and advise you on your legal rights. The sooner you are able to retain an attorney, the sooner their law office can move ahead with gathering information and evidence.
Arthur C. Crum, Jr. is a practicing motorcycle injury attorney, serving areas of Western and Central Maryland, including Frederick, Hagerstown, Frostburg, and more. To discuss your case, call the law office of Arthur C. Crum, Jr., at 301.662.4088 today. We offer free consultations and there are no legal fees or costs unless we recover for you.
