Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries or fatalities, and the aftermath can be overwhelming. Motorcyclists are more vulnerable due to the smaller frame and exposure of these vehicles, despite the fact that they are entitled to the road as much as other vehicles. If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Cincinnati, you know how devastating and life-changing it can be.
At Babin Law, LLC we understand the unique challenges faced by motorcyclists and are dedicated to helping our clients get the compensation they deserve. Our Cincinnati motorcycle accident lawyers have a proven track record of success in handling motorcycle accident cases and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and fight for your best interests. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you.
What is a Motorcycle Accident?
For legal purposes, a motorcycle accident is any incident involving a motorcycle and another vehicle, object, or pedestrian, that results in property damage, injury, or loss of life. Motorcycle accidents can occur due to a variety of factors, including driver error, poor road conditions, equipment failure, and other factors.
In the context of legal proceedings, it is important to determine liability for the accident, meaning who was responsible for the crash. Liability may be shared between multiple parties or may be solely attributed to one party, such as the driver of another vehicle who failed to yield to the motorcycle, a manufacturer who produced a defective motorcycle part, or a government entity responsible for maintaining safe road conditions.
Common Causes of Cincinnati Motorcycle Accidents
Some causes of Cincinnati motorcycle accidents include:
- Driver Error: This is the most common cause of motorcycle accidents. Driver errors can include speeding, distracted driving, failure to yield the right of way, and not keeping a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Road Hazards: Hazards such as potholes, debris, and uneven pavement can cause a motorcycle to lose control and crash.
- Impaired Driving: Operating a motorcycle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol greatly increases the risk of an accident.
- Lane Splitting: Lane splitting is the practice of riding a motorcycle between two lanes of traffic. It can be dangerous because other drivers may not expect a motorcycle to be passing them between lanes.
- Vehicle Blind Spots: Motorcycles are smaller and more difficult to see than other vehicles, making them more vulnerable to accidents caused by drivers not seeing them in their blind spots.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and other adverse weather conditions can make roads slippery and decrease visibility, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Lack of Riding Experience: Inexperienced riders may not have the skills and knowledge necessary to avoid accidents, making them more likely to crash.
Specific Laws for Cincinnati Motorcyclists
Specific laws that Cincinnati motorcyclists are required to follow include:
- Helmet law: In Ohio, all riders under the age of 18 and those who have been licensed to operate a motorcycle for less than a year must wear a helmet. However, all riders are strongly encouraged to wear a helmet.
- Handlebar height: The handlebars on a motorcycle must not be higher than the rider’s shoulders.
- Lane splitting: It is illegal to split lanes (ride between lanes of traffic) in Ohio.
- Passenger footrests: Motorcycles designed for two or more people must have passenger footrests.
- Exhaust system: Motorcycles must have an exhaust system that is in good working order and meets noise level standards.
- Eye protection: All riders must wear eye protection unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen or windshield.
How Frequent Are Cincinnati Motorcycle Accidents?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were a total of 5,014 motorcycle accidents in the state of Ohio in 2019. The Ohio Department of Public Safety’s 2020 Ohio Traffic Crash Facts Book cites 2,264 motorcycle crashes in Ohio in 2020, resulting in 163 fatalities and 1,677 injuries. There were 1,195 motorcycle crashes in Hamilton County (where Cincinnati is located) in 2020. Out of these crashes, there were 1,071 injuries and 20 fatalities.
Contact our Cincinnati Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Cincinnati, it is essential to seek the help of a trusted and experienced lawyer. At Babin Law, LLC we understand the unique challenges faced by motorcycle accident victims and are committed to providing personalized legal representation tailored to your specific needs. Our team of skilled Cincinnati motorcycle accident attorneys will work tirelessly to protect your rights, help you pursue the compensation you deserve, and ensure that you can focus on your recovery. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step towards securing the justice and compensation you are entitled to.
