Getting cut off by a driver is a frustrating and often terrifying experience for motorcyclists—and with good reason. Being cut off by an impatient, distracted, or aggressive driver is the cause of many Orange County motorcycle accidents and serious injuries each year. As Orange County motorcycle accident attorneys, we have personally seen numerous victims who were hurt after cars pulled out in front of their bikes. And, if you were injured in an Orange County motorcycle accident because a driver cut you off, we strongly encourage you to speak with an attorney as soon as possible about your rights.
If you “cut someone off” while driving, it generally means that you pulled out in front of someone suddenly, causing the other vehicle to hit the brakes. In Orange County, this is particularly common, as drivers join the traffic flow from side streets or jockey for position on multi-lane roadways. For example, if a driver suddenly whips into the lane in front of your motorcycle and causes you to hit the brakes to avoid impact, they have cut you off.
It can be dangerous any time anyone is cut off in traffic, but motorcyclists are especially at risk. Because motorcycles are smaller and lighter than passenger cars, they can be more difficult to control when something goes wrong. The motorcyclist usually does not have sufficient time to react or brake when cut off, and he or she could even lose control of the bike entirely or collide with other vehicles in trying to avoid an accident—especially at high speeds. When you’re on your bike, the simple act of an impatient driver changing lanes too suddenly or cutting you off at an intersection can have a tragic consequence.
If you were injured in an Orange County motorcycle accident because a driver cut you off, you may be able to seek compensation for your injuries. Contact our experienced Orange County motorcycle accident attorneys today at 1-(949) 851-0222 to schedule a completely free, no-obligation consultation to talk about what happened to you and learn more about your options.