Motorcycle Accidents Involving a Truck

Posted on March 3, 2025 at 11:00 AM by The Biker Lawyers

Why Are Motorcycle-Truck Accidents So Dangerous?

Trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while an average motorcycle weighs around 400 to 800 pounds. This disparity means that even a low-speed collision can have devastating consequences. Here are the primary reasons these accidents are so dangerous:

• Limited Visibility: Trucks have large blind spots where motorcycles can disappear from view.
• Longer Stopping Distance: Trucks take much longer to stop, increasing the likelihood of a collision.
• High Impact Force: The sheer mass of a truck amplifies the impact force on a motorcyclist.
• Underride Accidents: A motorcycle can slide under a truck, leading to fatal injuries.

Common Causes of Motorcycle-Truck Accidents

Understanding the leading causes of motorcycle-truck accidents can help riders take precautions:

1. Blind Spots (No-Zones) – Trucks have four major blind spots where motorcyclists become virtually invisible.
2. Improper Lane Changes – Truck drivers may change lanes without noticing a nearby motorcycle.
3. Wide Turns – Trucks need extra space to turn, which can put motorcycles at risk if caught in the turn path.
4. Brake Failure or Mechanical Issues – Large vehicles require more maintenance, and any failure can result in loss of control.
5. Distracted Driving – Truck drivers using mobile devices or adjusting navigation systems pose a significant danger.
6. Speeding or Reckless Driving – A truck moving too fast has reduced reaction time and longer stopping distances.
7. Road Conditions – Potholes, debris, or uneven pavement affect motorcycles more than trucks, leading to dangerous situations.

How to Avoid a Motorcycle-Truck Collision

Riders should take extra precautions when sharing the road with large trucks. Here’s how:

• Stay Out of Blind Spots: Avoid lingering in a truck’s “No-Zones.”
• Pass with Caution: Always pass quickly and ensure you have plenty of space before merging back.
• Keep a Safe Distance: Never tailgate a truck. Maintain at least a four-second following distance.
• Use Lights and Signals: Increase visibility by using headlights and wearing bright or reflective gear.
• Be Cautious at Intersections: Watch for trucks making wide turns and give them ample room.

Who is Liable in a Motorcycle-Truck Crash?

Determining liability in a truck accident can be complex due to multiple parties involved. Possible liable parties include:

• Truck Driver – If the driver was speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent.
• Trucking Company – If they failed to maintain the truck or pushed unrealistic driving schedules.
• Truck Manufacturer – If mechanical failure contributed to the accident.
• Third-Party Maintenance Providers – If improper servicing led to a malfunction.
• Government Entities – If poor road conditions played a role.

In-Depth Analysis of Key Risk Factors

1. Blind Spots: The Hidden Danger

Trucks have significant blind spots on all four sides:

• Front Blind Spot: A truck driver sitting high above the road has difficulty seeing objects directly in front of the cab.
• Side Blind Spots: Large trucks have extensive side blind spots, especially on the right side.
• Rear Blind Spot: Motorcycles following too closely may be completely unseen.

Sources: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data on truck blind spots.

2. The Impact of Truck Braking Distance

A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph requires up to 525 feet to come to a complete stop—compared to about 316 feet for a passenger car. This massive difference means that if a motorcyclist suddenly stops, the truck behind them may be unable to avoid a collision.

Sources: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) braking distance studies.

3. The Severity of Underride Accidents

Underride accidents occur when a motorcycle slides underneath a truck, often leading to fatal head injuries. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has recommended stronger underride guards to reduce these fatalities.

Sources: National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reports on underride accidents.

4. Legal Complexities in Truck Accidents

Because trucks operate under federal regulations, cases involving them are more complex than standard vehicle accidents. The FMCSA has regulations covering driver rest hours, truck maintenance, and weight limits—any violation of these can affect liability in an accident claim.

Sources: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines.

Conclusion

Motorcycle-truck accidents are among the most dangerous on the road. Riders must remain vigilant, stay out of blind spots, and always ride defensively. If an accident does occur, seeking legal assistance is essential for navigating the complex liability issues that arise in truck-related crashes.

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