Motorbike accident claims
29/05/2008
Motorcyclists on the road and other motorists
The Association of British Drivers (ABD) is a voluntary organisation that campaigns nationwide in the interests of all road users not just those behind the wheel of a car. As motorbike accident claims continue to rise, and more motorists take to two wheels, an investigation into road use habits of motorcyclists and non-motorcyclists is probably a useful tool.
The ABD has a page on their website that provides an outwardly light-hearted look at the dangers a motorcyclist may face. It reveals that car drivers exist in a very different motoring world to that of motorcyclists.
Acceleration
Motorcyclists have powers of acceleration that car drivers can only aspire to. A car driver's lack of speed out of a junction, particularly turning right in fast flowing traffic, means that some drivers will take risks. The rider of a motorbike is therefore equally at risk of not being seen and therefore riding straight into the car.
Traffic Jams
In multi-lane traffic congestion the car driver is usually in the slowest moving lane (well, that's the excuse) and is likely to move from lane to lane, unexpectedly and riskily. The motorcyclist, who has the ability to move effortlessly through traffic, is likely to find himself riding headlong into the car that jumps, without warning, from one lane to another.
Cyclists and pedestrians
Possessing the slowest speeds and rates of acceleration these road users often take risks when crossing roads or moving through traffic. The motorcyclist may come upon these people unexpectedly and without warning. They run the risk, again, of collision.
Speed, acceleration, motorbikes and pain
The ABD advises bikers to use their speed, acceleration and manoeuvrability wisely and to think ahead. Most motorcyclists have walked or driven at one time or another and should therefore be able to realise the limitations and capabilities of slower road users. Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians may not necessarily understand the perils of motorbike riding and this in turn can lead to pain.
Speed and collision is the motorcyclist's worst enemy. Collision usually means that the rider leaves his bike this happens in three distinct stages.
The Fall A motorcyclist will fall from a relatively low height, this is good. The ABD advises the rider to try to roll rather than to put out a hand to break the fall.
Deceleration When the motorbike rider hits the ground he will usually continue to travel. Sliding usually involves losing fabric, leather or flesh. If the rider is wearing a rucksack the slide may turn into a tumble. Tumbles usually involve flailing limbs and pain.
The Stop Ideally the slide will turn into a stop by means of friction alone. However, more likely, the stop is achieved with intervention from street objects, an oncoming vehicle or the kerb. This will also cause pain.
The ABD suggests that, as a motorcyclist, you have the choice of which level of pain may occur. Use your speed and manoeuvrability wisely and you may be able to avoid pain altogether. If other road users cause a collision your speed will determine the hurt that will occur.
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YouClaim and motorbike accident claims
If you have been involved in a motorbike accident or have sustained a motorcycle injury through no fault of your own you may be able to make a no win no fee claim. After calling our helpline on 0800 10 757 95 or filling in an online claim form you will be assigned an accident claim solicitor who will look after your case.
Making a motorbike accident claim with YouClaim is entirely risk free as we work on a 100% compensation, no win no fee basis. This means, win or lose, you will not have to pay a penny for our services. If you need time to think then we can call you back at a more convenient time, just let us have a few details and we will do the rest.
