With the proliferation of digital devices and the increasing demands on our attention, the roads have become a more dangerous place for everyone, especially for those on two wheels. Distracted driving is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents, leading to serious injuries and devastating fatalities every year. This behavior affects many of the capabilities necessary to drive safely, from maintaining consistent speed to paying attention to the people around you.
When these tragic accidents occur, victims and their families in Milwaukee can turn to a Milwaukee motorcycle accident attorney for legal support.
The Different Types of Distracted Driving
While we often associate distracted driving with looking at a cell phone, this behavior can manifest in various forms. Any distraction can undermine a driver or motorcyclist’s ability to maintain focus on the road, potentially contributing to a collision.
The three main types of distracted driving are as follows:
- Manual Distractions: These involve any activity that requires the driver to take their hands off the steering wheel, such as eating, adjusting the radio, or handling a mobile phone. For motorcyclists, even adjusting the helmet or protective gear while moving can be risky.
- Visual Distractions: These types of distractions occur when the driver or motorcyclist looks away from the road. Looking at a smartphone screen, searching for items in the car, or being overly attentive to a navigation device can lead to missed cues critical for safe driving.
- Cognitive Distractions: These Involve anything that takes a person’s mind off the act of driving or operating a motorcycle. Engaging in phone conversations, even hands-free, or daydreaming can distract a driver or motorcyclist just enough to miss a stop sign or a sudden stop in traffic.
Distractions Can Put Motorcyclists at a Heightened RiskÂ
For motorcyclists, the risks posed by distractions are notably higher compared to those in enclosed vehicles. Motorcycles are smaller, faster, and less visible, making them more susceptible to being overlooked by a distracted driver. Moreover, motorcyclists lack the protective barrier that cars provide, meaning any collision is likely to result in more severe injuries.Â
A moment’s distraction can prevent a driver from noticing a motorcycle’s presence on the road, leading to dangerous maneuvers such as lane changes or turns without proper signaling. These actions can force motorcyclists into sudden, unsafe responses, often resulting in accidents.
When motorcyclists themselves engage in distracted behavior, the inability to quickly react to road conditions or other vehicles can lead to disastrous outcomes. For example, they might misjudge the distance of an approaching vehicle or fail to notice a stop sign, causing a collision. Distracted motorcycling not only endangers the rider but also other road users, as erratic or unpredictable maneuvers can force sudden, unsafe reactions from drivers and pedestrians alike.
Speak to a Milwaukee Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love has been involved in a motorcycle accident due to another’s distracted driving, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. A Milwaukee motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue an insurance claim or lawsuit against the distracted driver and recover compensation to pay for any losses that you sustained.
An attorney can help in gathering evidence, establishing liability, and advocating for the compensation you deserve. Contact a Milwaukee motorcycle accident lawyer at Cannon & Dunphy S.C. today to discuss your legal options and take the first step toward securing justice.