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Unsafe Lane Changing Accidents

According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), nearly 10% of all roadway accidents are caused by unsafe lane change maneuvers. This equates to over 530,000 accidents each year. Adding to this statistic is the fact that motorcyclists are especially likely to be the victims of lane change accidents, as motorists often fail to see motorcycles traveling beside and behind them.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Unsafe Lane Changes

There are many ways a motorist can make an unsafe lane change. For example, not using turn signals when making a lane change, making a lane change in an intersection, and making a lane change at a high speed, are all unsafe maneuvers. Likewise, a lane change accident is oftentimes caused by a driver that is engaging in unsafe driving habits. Examples of such unsafe driving habits which commonly cause lane change accidents include:

  • Failing to check blind spots before making a lane change
  • Failing to check both mirrors before making a lane change
  • Changing more than one lane at a time
  • Drifting into another lane because of driver distractions
  • Using a cell phone or texting while driving
  • Failing to signal before making a lane change
  • Driving while intoxicated or fatigued
  • Changing into a lane where visibility is diminished. (This is especially true in shopping areas, where other vehicles are pulling into the roadway.)

Regardless of the exact circumstance involved in a lane change accident, unsafe lane changes are almost always a traffic violation. Georgia law requires drivers to remain entirely within a single lane, and to only attempt a lane change when it can be done with reasonable safety. When motorists fail to take proper precautions before changing lanes, they are likely to be cited by law enforcement. And when accidents occur because a driver failed to change lanes safely, they can be held liable for injuries and damages they caused.

Motorcycle Accidents Due to Unsafe Lane Changes Cause Serious Injuries

Unfortunately, there is almost no way for a motorcyclist to avoid being hit when a motorist changes lanes suddenly and moves directly into the bike’s path. This is because motorcycles require a lean to turn, making it impossible to move out of the way on a straight roadway.

Because a bike offers no physical protection, motorcyclists often suffer significant injuries in lane change accidents. Even a low-impact collision at slow speeds can result in serious, life-changing injuries for the motorcyclist, such as traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury, and in the worst cases, death.

Talk to an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney after a Motorcycle Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident caused by a car or truck driver’s unsafe lane change, contact the personal injury lawyers at KWF in Atlanta. We can help you recover fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Call (404) 460-0101 or (404) 460-0101 to schedule a free initial consultation. We represent clients across the state, including common bike routes such as the North Georgia Scenic Byways.

Client Reviews
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I was in a head-on collision last year that put me in a wheelchair with a fractured femur. I needed an attorney and my cousin recommended this firm because he had used Briant Mildenhall for his accident. I was glad I called Briant because he always did what he said he would do and kept me informed. We settled with the insurance company and I'm happy with the result. If someone I know needs an attorney, I will tell them to call Briant because he will get the job done. Michael G.
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After a head–on collision I had extremely serious injuries to my back and neck, and some internal injuries. I was airlifted to the hospital and started a huge amount of medical expenses accumulating. I hired a lawyer recommended by a friend but I was not satisfied. My cousin told me about this firm so I talked to Briant Mildenhall about handling the case. I was at ease from the get–go. Briant kept me informed all the way through, was always reassuring and did everything he said he would do. He helped us get the money we needed to get the treatment we needed. Briant was fantastic! Ronda W. (Car Accident)
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After my car accident, I was looking for an attorney and came across the name Katz Personal Injury Lawyers. My intuition told me to call. I called in and Briant Mildenhall talked to me. He was very clear and honest about my options. As the case went forward, Briant and the staff at the law office always answered my questions right away. I was very confident in Briant's legal ability. He kept me informed every step of the way. I would recommend Mr. Mildenhall and the firm to anyone who needs an attorney. Antonio J. (Car Accident)
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I am 100% satisfied. I called Rob the day after the accident. Everything he said that would happen did, every step of the way. He went beyond what we needed him to do. I would definitely use him again and recommend him to anyone who needs a lawyer. Steve H.
★★★★★
Robert Katz isn't your average personal injury lawyer. He has specialized knowledge and experience that the others don't. Timothy W. (Trucking Accident)
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