A motorcycle crash caused by a merging vehicle can leave you with life-changing injuries. Many motorcycle accidents occur when drivers fail to check their blind spots or misjudge a motorcyclist’s speed, leading to dangerous collisions. Contact our Phoenix motorcycle crash lawyers today to find out how to hold a negligent driver responsible for your injuries.
How Fault Is Determined in Merging Motorcycle Accidents
If a driver merged into your lane without looking, failed to yield, or forced you off the road, they may be at fault for your accident. Arizona law requires drivers to check their surroundings and signal before changing lanes, and if they ignore this responsibility, they can be held liable for the damage they caused.
Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-729, drivers must not move into another lane unless it is clear to do so. If a driver cut you off, failed to signal, or merged into your motorcycle, this law may help prove their negligence and responsibility for the crash.
Additionally, Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-693 defines reckless driving as any behavior that puts others at risk, including aggressive or careless lane changes. If the driver who hit you acted recklessly and caused your accident, they may be financially responsible for your injuries, medical bills, and lost wages.
Common Causes of Merging Motorcycle Accidents
When a driver fails to check their blind spots or merges without warning, you are the one at risk. A merging accident can push you off the road, force you into another vehicle, or cause you to lose control. If you were injured in a car accident because a driver did not give you enough space, their negligence may make them liable for your injuries and damages.
Blind Spots and Driver Inattention
If a driver does not check their blind spots before merging, they may move directly into your path without realizing you are there. Motorcycles are smaller than passenger vehicles, making them easy to overlook when drivers are distracted or in a hurry. If a driver fails to use their mirrors or turns without signaling, they can sideswipe you or force you into another lane.
Merging at High Speeds and Sudden Lane Changes
If a driver cuts you off at high speed, you may have no time to react. A sudden lane change can leave you with nowhere to go, increasing the risk of losing control or crashing into another vehicle. High-speed merging is even more dangerous on freeways and major roads, where the force of impact can result in severe injuries or fatalities.
Failing to Yield to Motorcycles
Too often, drivers do not respect motorcyclists’ right-of-way. A driver may misjudge your speed, assume they can merge in front of you, or simply not pay attention to your position. If they force their way into your lane, you may have to brake suddenly, swerve, or risk a collision.
Poor Road Design and Dangerous Conditions
Some merging accidents are caused by more than just driver negligence. Poorly designed roads, unclear lane markings, and blind curves can make it harder for drivers to see you or merge safely. If the road itself contributed to your crash, a government entity may share liability for the accident.
Find Out How a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Can Assist You
If a driver’s reckless merging caused your crash, you may be entitled to compensation for medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering. Your Phoenix accident lawyer from Sargon Law Group will fight for your financial recovery and ensure that negligent drivers are held accountable. Take the next step toward protecting your rights today. Schedule your no-cost, risk-free consultation when you complete our quick contact form or call us to get started on your insurance and civil claims.