Alaska is dangerous for motorcycle riders due to heavy traffic and careless drivers. Understanding common accidents can help you stay sharp and safe on the road.
Alaska law states that drivers must yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when making a left turn, and many drivers fail to do so, causing catastrophic accidents. Even if you’re riding out of state or visiting, an Alaska motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options if you’ve been injured in such an incident.
Left-Turn Accidents
Motorcyclists are at the most risk in left-turn accidents. The first occurs when a driver making a left turn at an intersection doesn’t see an oncoming motorcycle and either misjudges how far away it is or how fast it’s going. This oversight gives motorcyclists very little time to avoid a collision.
Lane Splitting Accidents
Alaska allows lane splitting, where motorcycles ride between lanes of slow or stopped traffic, but the practice is controversial. The law permits it, but many drivers are unprepared for motorcyclists weaving between cars on the road, especially during rush hour.
Abrupt lane changes or inattentive drivers can quickly cause collisions. Riders must know about safe speed differentials, and drivers who may not check their mirrors must exercise caution. Lane splitting requires excellent precision and situational awareness to avoid serious accidents.
Rear-End Collisions
Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable in rear-end collisions. Often, cars follow motorcycles too closely, underestimating the speed at which they can brake. A split-second reaction delay can be deadly in dense and slow-moving Alaska traffic. Defensive riding—leaving ample space and being visible—is essential for motorcycle riders to help reduce this risk.
Dooring Accidents
A dooring accident is when a parked vehicle’s occupant opens a door into the path of an approaching motorcycle. Motorcyclists, for instance, may not be as prepared to deal with sudden obstacles like parked cars, which means cyclists often ride a little closer to them, but motorcyclists are not.
Drivers and passengers are legally obliged to look for approaching vehicles before opening a door. Riders can help avoid these accidents by staying vigilant and maintaining a safe distance from parked cars.
Hit and Run Accidents
Motorcyclists in Alaska find hit-and-run accidents frustrating and dangerous. A driver may strike a rider, and the driver flees the scene to avoid legal or financial responsibility. This delays medical help for the injured and complicates legal proceedings. It can be crucial to gather as much evidence as possible, such as witness statements or surveillance footage, to identify the at-fault party and hold them accountable.
Speeding and DUI Accidents
Many motorcycle accidents involve speeding, as it decreases reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. Motorcyclists are even more at risk because they don’t have the protective barriers of cars. Driving with impaired judgment, motor skills, and reaction time is equally dangerous as driving under the influence.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says alcohol-impaired drivers are responsible for about 30 percent of all traffic fatalities. Seeking fair compensation for such an accident requires you to consult an Alaska car accident attorney if you’re involved in such an accident.
Driver negligence, road conditions, and rider behavior are causes of motorcycle accidents in Alaska. Knowing about these common risks and taking proactive safety measures can dramatically cut your chances of becoming a statistic. You must ride defensively, obey traffic laws, and seek legal counsel to protect yourself and your rights.
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