Crashes involving motorcycles and cars often lead to severe consequences for all drivers involved, but especially the motorcyclist. Determining fault in these situations could be tricky, as it depends not only on the actions of the drivers involved, but also on the conditions of the road and the circumstances leading up to the crash.
While no two accidents are the same, here are some of the most common contributing factors in determining fault after motorcycles and cars collide.
Understanding the common causes of accidents between motorcycles and cars can help clarify fault. Some factors that frequently contribute to these collisions are:
In crashes involving motorcycles and cars, fault varies based on the exact circumstances, but generally, car drivers bear the responsibility in these accidents. Some common reasons that car drivers are at fault are failure to notice motorcycles, failure to yield to motorcycles, and distracted driving.
However, motorcyclists can also contribute to crashes. The most common motorcyclist behavior that can result in an accident is riding between lanes to pass cars in traffic, which is often referred to as lane splitting. Lane splitting is illegal in Pennsylvania, and the motorcyclist could be responsible for any collision.
Establishing fault in a crash between a motorcycle and a car plays a significant role in insurance claims, medical expenses, and possible legal actions. Pennsylvania follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that both parties can share the blame. If you are found partially responsible, your compensation could be reduced based on your share of fault.
If you have been in a crash between a motorcycle and a car and are wondering who is at fault, consult an attorney to understand your options. Determining fault may be complicated, and an attorney could help clarify who is responsible, guide you in gathering evidence, and seek compensation for your injuries.
