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Motorbike usage is becoming more popular and the number of motorbikes on our roads is steadily increasing. It is recognised that riding a bike can be hazardous and as a result the chances of being involved in an motorbike accident or crash are fairly high. No matter how safe your riding skills the presence of other road traffic is a constant danger.
Motorbike accidents are not just limited to public roads; they often occur at private organised track days or events where there is a duty on the event organiser to ensure the safety of all riders. An accident can also arise or be contributed to as a result of faulty parts such as failed shock absorbers.
Whatever the circumstance surrounding your accident the team here at Ascot Lawyers are happy to advise you on all areas of liability and your chances of making a successful claim.
A motorbike accident is more likely to occur at, or when approaching a road junction, or as a result of an overtaking (filtering) manoeuvre.
The vast majority of motorbike accidents involve some form of contributory negligence, where the biker and the other road user are both to blame in some way.
Two main factors appear to contribute to an accident:
Below we set out some typical accident scenarios and the likely outcome in relation to negligence:
Mr X was driving a car in slow moving traffic. Mr X intended to turn right into a side junction. Mr Y riding a motorbike, travelling at a speed of approximately 30mph, overtook the line of traffic. Mr X turned right and a collision occurred.
In this scenario the case is likely to settle on a 50/50 split liability basis, Mr X did not check his mirrors or blind spot before turning and Mr Y was travelling too fast to filter safely.
Mr Y riding a motorbike was undertaking a traffic queue at approximately 20mph approaching crossroads. Mr X driving a car emerged from a junction on the right and was obscured from view and a collision occurred.
In this scenario liability is likely to be decided on a 50/50 equal split, this is because the car driver has a high duty of care when emerging from a side road onto a main road and similarly for the biker as he is carrying out a dangerous undertaking manoeuvre.
Mr X driving a car at a T-junction controlled by traffic lights. Mr X intended to turn right across oncoming traffic, but failed to wait for a sufficient gap in the traffic. Mr Y riding a motorbike approached from the opposite way and a collision occurred.
Mr Y was seriously injured and unable to give evidence, however statements were taken from witnesses who confirmed that Mr Y had right of way however he appeared to be travelling too fast bearing in mind it was a busy junction controlled by traffic lights.
This scenario is likely to be decided on an 80/20 basis against Mr X. It should be acknowledged that Mr X had the greater duty of care, however if Mr Y had been travelling at a safe speed they may have been able to either stop or slow down to avoid a collision.
Ascot Lawyers are experienced in dealing with motorbike accidents and can provide assistance with the following:
A motorbike accident can be a very traumatic experience often resulting in serious injuries. We are able to arrange an early assessment for treatment, such as physiotherapy, at no cost to you. Our aim is to assist you in making a full recovery and ensuring you recover a fair amount of compensation.
We understand how important your motorbike is to you and getting you back on the road is our priority. Read our Motorbike Accident Statistics information from the Department of Transport.
Our team are experienced in dealing with cases of Motorbike Accidents and will be able to give you advice. Please contact the accident team on 0845 300 3574 to discuss your case further. You can also start your claims process now by completing our online road traffic accident claims form and get a quick response.
Key Contact
Ted Littlewood
Head of Personal Injury
01344 384577
Harvey Sandercock
Head of Personal Injury
01344 852 846
Neil Somerville
Senior Partner
01344 783 896
Karen Fleming
Solicitor
01344 852 847
Lee Freeman
Personal Injury Case Handler
01344 852 844
Sarah Mitchard
Personal Injury Supervisor
01344 852843