1 Killed, 3 Injured in Manatee County Motorcycle Crash
Left turns in front of motorcycles are some of the most dangerous maneuvers by passenger vehicles. Many drivers do not see these bikes approaching, causing serious and even fatal accidents.
Sadly, this was recently the case in Florida. A woman pulled out in front of a motorcycle, causing a fatal collision. The crash occurred on the evening of March 15 in Manatee County.
An 81-year-old Bradenton woman was driving north on U.S. 41 (14th Street West) in the left turn lane. She was approaching a yellow traffic signal at the intersection of Florida Boulevard.
At the same time, a 50-year-old man from Arizona was driving his motorcycle south on U.S. 41. He was approaching the intersection of Florida Boulevard when the Bradenton woman made a left turn in front of the motorcycle. The two vehicles collided.
The motorcyclist died at the accident scene. A passenger on the motorcycle, a 56-year-old woman from North Port, suffered serious injuries. She was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
The driver of the car suffered minor injuries. Her passenger, an 86-year-old man from Bradenton, was seriously injured. The accident is still under investigation.
Dangers of Left Turns in Front of Motorcycles
Left-turn accidents involving motorcycles are dangerous due to several factors:
- Size and visibility issues. Motorcycles are much smaller than cars, making them harder to spot. Drivers may fail to see an approaching motorcycle, especially in heavy traffic or when distracted.
- Speed misjudgment. Because motorcycles are compact, drivers often underestimate their speed. A car may turn left thinking there’s enough time, only for the motorcycle to arrive much faster than expected.
- Limited reaction time. When a car suddenly turns left in front of a motorcycle, the rider has very little time to react. Swerving might not be an option if there are other vehicles or obstacles nearby, and sudden braking can cause a loss of control.
- Severe impact risks. Motorcyclists lack the protection of a car’s frame, airbags, and seatbelts, making left-turn collisions extremely dangerous. Even at moderate speeds, these accidents often result in head injuries, broken bones, internal injuries, and fatalities.
- Intersection dangers. Many left-turn accidents happen at intersections, where multiple distractions, such as traffic lights, pedestrians, and other vehicles, increase the chances of driver errors and accidents.
- Right-of-way violations. Most left-turn accidents occur because the turning driver fails to yield to the motorcyclist, who typically has the right of way. This can lead to T-bone accidents, which can result in catastrophic or even fatal consequences.
Contact Us Today
Motorcycles are vulnerable in an accident. Another person’s negligent or reckless driving can easily cause catastrophic or fatal injuries.
A Bradenton motorcycle accident lawyer from Cahall Law Firm can help you with your case. We understand the challenges that many victims face following a motorcycle accident. We will work to help you obtain full and fair compensation for all your damages so you can be made whole again. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling our office at (941) 281-2019.
Source:
yahoo.com/news/arizona-man-killed-3-injured-130913254.html
