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When learning to ride a motorbike, motorcyclists are taught that the greatest danger they face on the roads is not being seen. Many motorbike instructors teach their pupils to employ defensive driving techniques to ensure that the rider is always in the view of surrounding traffic to help minimise the chances of a motorbike accident and the need for a motorcycle accident claim.
Lorries and other HGVs arguably pose the most significant risk to a motorbike rider as their blind spots are greater and so an overtaking motorcyclist can easily be missed. In October 2008, a compensation claim was made against an Inverness lorry driver for his failure to see a motorcyclist in his blind spot which resulted in the motorcyclist's death.
The tragic accident happened when the Moray motorcyclist was overtaking the lorry on the A98 Cullen-Fochabers road. The driver of the 18-tonne lorry pulled out into the fast lane after he failed to spot the motorcyclist who was already overtaking. The motorcyclist was forced onto the grass verge where he slid and crashed.
The lorry driver was charged with causing death by driving without due care or attention for others but denied the charge, arguing that the motorbike was in his blind spot when he changed lanes. However, evidence from Grampian Police's road collision investigator showed that the accident was caused by the lorry driver's failure to use his mirrors properly.
Statements from the accident investigation report said, "The lorry has moved out to overtake the tractor while the motorcyclist was still alongside the truck."
Although the lorry driver argued that he and the motorcyclist pulled into the fast lane at the same time, mud patterns from the scene of the crash showed that the motorbike had already been in the lane when the lorry pulled out.
While the lorry driver's defence argued that the greater distance achieved by the bike would have been caused by the motorbike's superior acceleration, collision investigators contested the argument declaring that there would be no reason for the motorcyclist to pull on to the grass verge unless he was being forced off the road.
It was not reported whether relatives of the deceased biker made a compensation claim for his loss of life, but with evidence pointing to the lorry driver being at fault it is likely that a personal injury claim could be made.
As the Moray motorcyclist's tragic death highlights, motorcyclists are at a real risk of not being seen by other road users so it is imperative that motorcyclists ensure they wear high visibility clothing and use defensive driving techniques to ensure they are seen on the road. Books and defensive driving courses are available throughout the UK and could prove to be a life-saving investment.
If you, or a relative have been involved in a motorcycle accident that was not your fault, you may be able to make a motorcycle compensation claim for the injuries you or your relative sustained.
make a motorcycle compensation claim with YouClaim
At YouClaim, out experienced team of personal injury lawyers can help advise you on the best way of making a claim. As they work on a no win, no fee basis, you will not be charged a single penny for making a claim so you have nothing to lose.
Thanks to our 100% compensation policy, you will also receive the total amount of compensation awarded to you.
So why not call us today and find out more about making a motorcycle accident claim.
