Motorcycle Accidents and Slippery Roads
Every type of motor vehicle faces the risk of an accident, but the danger is especially great for motorcyclists. Motorcycle accidents are more likely to cause catastrophic or fatal injuries, since they do not have the same protective features as other vehicles. Additionally, many road hazards pose a unique threat to motorcycles.
Slippery roads are a great concern for motorcyclists. Slippery roads can easily throw a bike off balance or lead to a collision. Individuals from the Daytona Beach, FL, and Palm Coast, FL area who are involved in motorcycle accidents on slippery roads can work with the motorcycle accident lawyers at Chanfrau & Chanfrau to hold liable parties accountable for accident damages.
Dangers of Slippery Road Surfaces
Slippery roads lack traction, which makes it difficult for tires to grip the road. Lost traction increases the risk of a vehicle losing control, and makes it far more difficult for a vehicle to come to a complete stop should a hazard present itself. These dangers are even greater for motorcycles.
Motorcycles only have two tires, so they are naturally unstable. Motorcycles are also smaller and lighter than other motor vehicles, which puts them at greater risk on a slippery road. If even one motorcycle tire loses traction with the road, the motorcycle can lose control, tip, flip, or be unable to stop.
Slippery Road Hazards
Wet weather conditions, such as rain and snow, are a common cause of slippery roads, but there are many other conditions that can create slick road surfaces. Roads can be especially slippery if any of these hazards are present:
- Leaves
- Loose sand
- Trolley tracks
- Painted surfaces
- Standing water
- Oil slick or other liquid spill
Accident Liability
When a motorcycle accident occurs, it is important to determine who is liable for the accident and resulting damages. When working a case for our Daytona Beach clients, the attorneys at Chanfrau & Chanfrau consider all factors that may have contributed to the accident. Even if slippery roads were a factor in an accident, other people or parties may be liable for the collision, including:
- Another driver - Drivers are expected to drive cautiously to protect the safety of those on the road. If a driver fails to take road conditions into account, and practices risky driving, such as speeding, they can be held liable if their behavior contributes to an accident.
- Local jurisdiction - State, city, or county officials may be responsible for road maintenance. If there are safety hazards present that should have been taken care of by local jurisdiction, and an accident occurs, the parties responsible for road maintenance can be held liable for accident damages.
- Vehicle or parts manufacturers - Even if roads are slippery, some accidents can be avoided with good equipment. If a motorcycle part (such as tires or brakes) is defective, and it causes an accident, the manufacturer should be held accountable.
Compensation for Accident Damages
If another person or party is responsible for a motorcycle accident that takes place on a slippery road, they should be held liable for all accident damages. Victims of a motorcycle crash caused by another party may be due compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, any loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering.
Contact Chanfrau & Chanfrau
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be due financial compensation for resulting damages. To discuss your case with the knowledgeable legal team at Chanfrau & Chanfrau, send us a message at your earliest convenience, or call (386) 258-7313.