Intersection Accidents

Intersections can be a dangerous place for motorcyclists. Maryville motorcycle accident lawyer Mark C. Hartsoe can help you if you were injured in an intersection accident. Mr. Hartsoe is a seasoned personal injury lawyer with decades of experience representing individuals hurt in motorcycle accidents. If you were hit by a reckless driver at an intersection, Mr. Hartsoe can help you seek compensation for your injuries. Call us today to discuss your case.

Motorcyclists and their passengers must be cautious on the road, but they must be particularly careful at intersections. Unfortunately, thousands of motorcyclists and their passengers die each year in crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 4,612 fatal motorcycle accidents in 2011. Most motorcycle-vehicle collisions occur at intersections.

In Tennessee, motorcycle deaths accounted for 12 percent of total traffic-related fatalities in 2011. The number of fatalities in 2012 was up to 139 compared to 114 deaths in 2011.

Motorcyclists can take steps to reduce their risk of getting hit by a car or truck. They can wear reflective gear, and make sure to stay out of a vehicle’s blind spot. Wearing a helmet can also reduce the severity of an injury and possibly save lives. Despite measures to protect themselves on the road, motorcyclists cannot prevent a reckless driver from causing an accident.

Motorcyclists involved in intersection accidents can suffer serious, even life-threatening, injuries. A motorist who collides with a motorcycle at an intersection can be held responsible if their negligence caused the accident.

Tennessee law imposes a duty of care to anyone who operates a vehicle. It also requires motorists to share the road with motorcyclists. Many, however, fail to do so. A driver at an intersection may be:

• Too distracted to see the motorcycle, particularly when making a left-hand turn
• Speeding and fail to yield the right-of-way
• Tired or driving under the influence and fail to see the motorcycle

The list can go on, but these are just some examples of a driver who breaches his or her duty of care. When a driver does not exercise this duty, he or she can be found negligent and held liable for the injuries that result from an accident they cause.

If you were in a motorcycle accident at an intersection, you can seek damages for any injuries caused by the person responsible for the crash. Whether you were the motorcyclist or passenger, you can pursue compensation for your injuries. You can potentially recover for your medical bills, loss of income, long-term care, and pain and suffering.

If your relative died in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death suit against the motorist responsible for your loss. Tennessee sets a time limit on when you can file a suit, so it is important that you speak with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to secure your rights.

Maryville personal injury attorney Mark C. Hartsoe is ready to help you if you were hurt due to the negligence of another in an intersection accident. For years, Mr. Hartsoe has represented individuals injured in motorcycle accidents throughout Blount County. He will gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and work with investigators to pursue justice from the negligent parties responsible for your injuries. If you were injured or lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, call us today at 865-804-1011 or contact us online for a free consultation.