Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Southwestern Ohio

When you hit the open road on your motorcycle, you deserve to feel the thrill of the ride without worrying about careless drivers and their reckless actions. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents happen all too often, forcing victims to deal with severe injuries and life-changing consequences.  

At Diehl & Hubbell, we understand the challenges faced by victims of motorcycle accidents and are here to help you through every step of the recovery process.  

We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your accident to determine liability and hold the responsible parties accountable. Our goal is to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing. 

What Are Motorcycle Accidents, and Why Are They Different?

Motorcycle accidents involve collisions between motorcycles and other vehicles, objects, or roadway structures. These auto accidents occur due to a variety of factors including, but not limited to, distracted driving, failure of other drivers to see motorcycles, road hazards, and adverse weather conditions.  

Motorcycle accidents differ from regular auto accidents in several ways. Unlike car accidents, motorcyclists are more vulnerable due to the lack of protective barriers, which can result in more severe physical injuries such as fractures, head trauma, and spinal injuries. These injuries can lead to long recovery times, expensive medical bills, and significant impacts on your quality of life. 

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Understanding what typically causes motorcycle accidents can help you take steps to avoid them. Here are some of the most common causes we see in our practice: 

• Distracted driving: Drivers using their phones or not paying attention can easily miss a motorcycle in their blind spot. 

• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. 

• Failure to yield: Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists. 

• Impaired driving: Alcohol or drug use significantly impairs a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. 

• Road hazards: Potholes, debris, and poor road conditions can be particularly hazardous for motorcyclists. 

• Weather conditions: Poor weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, can reduce visibility and traction, making it more difficult for motorcyclists and other drivers to see and react appropriately. 

• Inexperience: Riders or drivers who are not accustomed to sharing the road with motorcycles may make dangerous mistakes. 

• Tailgating: Following too closely behind a motorcycle reduces the driver’s ability to stop quickly and safely, increasing the risk of a rear-end collision. 

• Left-turn accidents: Many motorcycle accidents occur when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle without seeing it. 

• Lack of signal use: Failure to use turn signals by either the motorcyclist or other vehicles can lead to unexpected maneuvers and collisions. 

Motorcycle Laws in Ohio

Ohio has specific laws designed to protect motorcyclists and ensure their safety on the road. Familiarizing yourself with these laws can help you stay compliant and safe: 

• Helmet laws: In Ohio, only riders under the age of 18 and those with less than one year of motorcycle endorsement are required to wear helmets. However, wearing a helmet regardless of age is always a wise choice for safety. 

• Licensing requirements: You must hold a valid motorcycle license or endorsement to legally operate a motorcycle in Ohio. 

• Equipment regulations: Motorcycles must be equipped with at least one rearview mirror, a working horn, and front and rear brakes. 

• Lane splitting: Lane splitting, or riding between lanes of traffic, is illegal in Ohio. 

• Headlights: Motorcycles are required to use headlights during the day. This increases their visibility to other drivers and can help prevent accidents. 

• Passenger age restrictions: Ohio law prohibits carrying passengers under the age of four on a motorcycle. Passengers must have their own seats and footrests. 

• Handlebar height limitations: Handlebars on motorcycles must not be higher than the shoulders of the operator when seated. 

• Noise regulations: Motorcycles in Ohio must meet specific noise level regulations to reduce noise pollution and prevent disturbances. 

• Eye protection: Riders without a windshield must wear eye protection, such as goggles or a face shield, to protect against wind, debris, and insects. 

These laws are also key to understand because, if you broke any of them during the ride in which your accident took place, your insurance company and legal team may use that as evidence of negligence on your part. But don't let that deter you from seeking the compensation you need to recover from your injuries. Contact our experienced attorneys at Diehl & Hubbell today to discuss your case and options.