Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Edmond, Oklahoma

Understanding the prevalence and nature of motorcycle accidents in Edmond is crucial for raising awareness and promoting safety. Recent incidents highlight the risks motorcyclists face on the roads:

• October 7, 2023: A motorcyclist sustained injuries in a crash on Interstate 35 in Edmond. 

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• September 16, 2023: Jennifer Fox, 48, tragically lost her life in a motorcycle collision with a car on East Waterloo Road in Edmond. 

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These incidents underscore the importance of vigilance and the need for experienced legal support following a motorcycle accident.

Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can occur in various ways, each presenting unique challenges, risks, and potential injuries. Because motorcycles offer less protection than cars, riders are more vulnerable to severe injuries in the event of an accident. Understanding the different types of motorcycle crashes can help riders, drivers, and legal professionals determine liability and take appropriate legal action when necessary.

1. Left-Turn Collisions

One of the most frequent and dangerous types of motorcycle accidents occurs when a vehicle makes a left-hand turn at an intersection or driveway, cutting off an oncoming motorcyclist. These accidents happen because drivers often misjudge the speed of an approaching motorcycle or fail to see the rider entirely. Many left-turn accidents occur when a driver:

• Fails to yield the right-of-way and turns in front of an oncoming motorcycle.

• Is distracted and does not check for smaller vehicles like motorcycles.

• Misjudges the motorcyclist’s speed, assuming they have time to turn.

• Does not use turn signals properly, confusing the rider about their intentions.

Injuries in Left-Turn Collisions:

• Broken bones

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)

• Spinal cord injuries

• Internal organ damage

Legal Considerations:
In most cases, the turning driver is at fault because they must yield to oncoming traffic. However, factors such as excessive motorcycle speed or running a red light can complicate liability. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help determine fault and fight for compensation.

2. Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are among the deadliest motorcycle accidents. These occur when a vehicle crosses into the opposite lane or fails to complete a safe passing maneuver, directly colliding with an oncoming motorcycle.

Common Causes:

• Distracted or impaired driving – A driver texting, eating, or under the influence may drift into the opposite lane.

• Fatigue – Tired drivers may momentarily lose focus and veer into oncoming traffic.

• Passing on two-lane roads – A driver may attempt to overtake another vehicle without properly checking for oncoming motorcycles.

• Sharp curves and poor visibility – A driver speeding around a bend may lose control and collide with a motorcycle.

Injuries in Head-On Collisions:

• Fatal injuries

• Severe fractures

• Amputations

• Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis

Legal Considerations:
Because these crashes are often catastrophic, determining fault is crucial. If a driver negligently crossed into the motorcyclist’s lane, they are usually liable for damages. If the accident was caused by poor road maintenance (e.g., potholes or missing road signs), a government entity may be held responsible.

3. Lane-Switching Accidents

Lane-switching accidents happen when a car changes lanes and collides with a motorcycle that was in its blind spot. Motorcycles’ smaller size makes them harder to see, and drivers who do not check their mirrors carefully may not notice them.

Common Causes:

• Failure to check blind spots before merging

• Not using turn signals properly

• Driving aggressively or weaving through traffic

• Motorcycles riding in a car’s blind spot for too long

Injuries in Lane-Switching Accidents:

• Road rash from being forced off the road

• Broken arms or legs

• Neck and back injuries

Legal Considerations:
Drivers who fail to properly check their surroundings before merging are typically at fault. However, motorcyclists must also practice defensive riding and avoid lingering in a vehicle’s blind spot.

4. Rear-End Collisions

A rear-end collision occurs when a vehicle crashes into the back of a motorcycle. Because motorcycles are much smaller and lighter than cars, even a low-speed rear-end crash can throw a rider off their bike, leading to serious injuries.

Common Causes:

• Tailgating – Following too closely does not allow enough stopping distance.

• Distracted driving – A driver looking at their phone may not notice a motorcycle slowing down.

• Sudden braking – A car driver may not anticipate a motorcyclist stopping quickly.

• Slippery road conditions – A driver skids into the back of a motorcycle on wet or icy roads.

Injuries in Rear-End Collisions:

• Whiplash

• Lower back injuries

• Head trauma

• Broken ribs

Legal Considerations:
In most cases, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is at fault. However, a motorcyclist could share responsibility if they suddenly brake without reason or fail to have working taillights.

5. Cornering Accidents

Cornering accidents happen when a motorcyclist misjudges a curve, causing them to lose control and crash. These accidents often occur on winding roads, especially in hilly or mountainous areas.

Common Causes:

• Excessive speed entering a turn

• Gravel, sand, or oil on the road

• Wet or icy conditions

• Failure to lean properly into the curve

• Overcorrecting mid-turn

Injuries in Cornering Accidents:

• Broken arms, wrists, or legs

• Head injuries

• Severe road rash

Legal Considerations:
If a cornering accident is due to poorly maintained roads, the local government may be responsible. If another vehicle forced the motorcyclist off the road, the driver could be held liable.

6. Dooring Accidents

A dooring accident happens when a driver or passenger in a parked car suddenly opens their door into the path of an approaching motorcycle. The rider may not have enough time to react, causing them to collide with the door or swerve into traffic.

Common Causes:

• Drivers or passengers failing to check their mirrors before opening a door

• Motorcyclists riding too close to parked cars

• Inadequate bike lane placement forcing motorcycles to ride near parked vehicles

Injuries in Dooring Accidents:

• Broken collarbones or wrists

• Facial injuries

• Concussions

Legal Considerations:
The person who opened the car door without checking for traffic is typically at fault. However, determining liability may be more complicated in areas with unclear bike lane markings.

7. High-Speed Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycles are capable of reaching high speeds quickly, which can sometimes lead to severe crashes. Speeding accidents may involve only the motorcyclist or include other vehicles.

Common Causes:

• Riding at excessive speeds – High speeds reduce reaction time.

• Sudden obstacles – An unexpected car, animal, or pothole may cause a crash.

• Loss of control – Motorcycles require skill to maneuver at high speeds safely.

Injuries in High-Speed Accidents:

• Fatal injuries

• Internal organ damage

• Severe burns and road rash

Legal Considerations:
In some cases, speeding motorcyclists are found at fault for their own injuries. However, if another driver was reckless or impaired, they may share responsibility.

8. Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Accidents

Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver collides with a motorcyclist and flees the scene. These accidents leave victims without immediate medical help or insurance information.

Common Causes:

• Drivers under the influence trying to avoid legal consequences

• Uninsured drivers

• Distracted drivers unaware they hit someone

Injuries in Hit-and-Run Accidents:

• Any type of injury, including life-threatening trauma

Legal Considerations:
If the driver is found, they face criminal penalties and civil lawsuits. If the driver is not found, victims may need to seek compensation through uninsured motorist coverage.

Protecting Yourself After a Motorcycle Accident

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, an experienced lawyer can help you recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Hawkins Law Firm is here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Edmond, Oklahoma – Understanding the Risks & Protecting Your Rights

Motorcycling is a popular mode of transportation and recreation in Edmond, Oklahoma, with its scenic roads, open highways, and growing suburban landscape. However, motorcycle riders are at greater risk of serious injuries or fatalities due to their lack of protection compared to drivers in enclosed vehicles. While motorcycles make up only a fraction of vehicles on the road, they account for a disproportionately high percentage of serious and fatal crashes.

In Edmond, where high-traffic areas like Broadway Extension, I-35, and Route 66 see heavy vehicle congestion, motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to reckless and inattentive drivers. At Hawkins Law Firm, we represent motorcycle accident victims and their families, helping them recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Below, we outline the leading causes of motorcycle accidents in Edmond and how our legal team can help you seek justice if you’ve been involved in a crash.

1. Distracted Driving – A Leading Threat to Motorcyclists

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving occurs when a driver’s attention is taken away from the road, significantly increasing the risk of hitting a motorcyclist. Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, they are often overlooked by distracted drivers.

Why Distracted Driving is a Problem in Edmond:

📱 Texting While Driving – One of the most dangerous distractions, texting can take a driver’s eyes off the road for 5 seconds, enough time to cover the length of a football field at 55 mph.
📱 GPS & In-Car Devices – Drivers adjusting GPS, music, or dashboard controls may fail to see an approaching motorcycle.
📱 Eating & Drinking Behind the Wheel – A driver focused on their meal instead of traffic can miss a motorcyclist changing lanes or braking ahead.

How Distracted Driving Causes Motorcycle Crashes:

⚠ Failure to Check Blind Spots – Many drivers fail to properly check for motorcycles when changing lanes.
⚠ Sudden Rear-End Collisions – A distracted driver may not notice a motorcycle slowing down in front of them.
⚠ Drifting into a Motorcycle’s Lane – A momentary distraction can cause a driver to swerve into a motorcyclist’s path.

📞 Were you hit by a distracted driver in Edmond? Call Hawkins Law Firm today to discuss your case.

2. Speeding – The #1 Factor in Fatal Motorcycle Crashes

Why Speeding Increases Motorcycle Accident Risks

Speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time, making it harder to avoid collisions with motorcycles. Additionally, high-speed crashes involving motorcycles are more likely to be fatal due to the force of impact.

Why Speeding is a Problem in Edmond:

🚀 High-Speed Roads & Intersections – Locations like 2nd Street, Danforth Road, and Covell Road see frequent speeding incidents.
🚀 Highway & Interstate Collisions – Speeding on I-35 and Kilpatrick Turnpike puts motorcyclists at risk of deadly high-impact crashes.
🚀 Lack of Awareness of Motorcycles – Drivers traveling at excessive speeds have less time to see and react to nearby motorcyclists.

Common Speeding-Related Motorcycle Accidents:

⚠ Failure to Stop in Time – Speeding drivers cannot stop quickly enough when a motorcycle is ahead.
⚠ Losing Control in Curves – Motorcyclists who misjudge a turn at high speeds may skid off the road.
⚠ Severe T-Bone Collisions – Speeding through red lights or stop signs at intersections leads to deadly side-impact crashes.

📞 If a speeding driver caused your motorcycle accident, call Hawkins Law Firm for legal representation.

3. Driving Under the Influence – A Preventable Cause of Deadly Accidents

How Alcohol & Drug Use Contribute to Motorcycle Accidents

Drunk and drug-impaired drivers pose a major threat to motorcyclists. Impaired driving reduces coordination, reaction time, and decision-making ability, making collisions more likely and more severe.

Why DUI-Related Crashes Happen in Edmond:

🥃 Bars & Restaurants Along Route 66 – Some drivers get behind the wheel after drinking at local establishments.
🥃 Late-Night & Weekend DUI Accidents – Most alcohol-related motorcycle crashes occur between midnight and 3 a.m..
🥃 Impaired Judgment at Intersections – Drunk drivers often run red lights, failing to yield to motorcycles.

Common DUI-Related Motorcycle Accidents:

⚠ Wrong-Way Crashes – Impaired drivers may enter the wrong lane, leading to fatal head-on collisions.
⚠ Swerving into Motorcycles – Drunk drivers often fail to maintain lanes, crashing into riders.
⚠ Failure to Brake or Stop – Impaired reaction times increase the risk of rear-end collisions.

📞 If a drunk or drugged driver caused your motorcycle accident, Hawkins Law Firm will fight for justice.

4. Failure to Yield Right of Way – A Leading Cause of Intersection Crashes

How Failure to Yield Causes Motorcycle Accidents

Many drivers fail to properly yield to motorcyclists, especially at intersections and stop signs. Because motorcycles are smaller and more maneuverable, some drivers mistakenly assume they have the right of way.

Why Failure to Yield is a Problem in Edmond:

🚦 Busy Intersections – 2nd & Bryant and 15th & Broadway are high-risk areas for failure-to-yield crashes.
🚦 Left-Turn Accidents – Drivers misjudge the speed of an oncoming motorcycle when making left turns.
🚦 Roundabouts & Stop Signs – Drivers often ignore right-of-way rules at four-way stops and roundabouts.

Common Failure-to-Yield Accidents Involving Motorcycles:

⚠ Left-Turn Collisions – A vehicle turning left in front of a motorcycle can cause a severe T-bone crash.
⚠ Intersection Crashes – Drivers who run stop signs or red lights may strike motorcycles legally in the intersection.
⚠ Merging & Lane-Changing Accidents – Drivers who fail to yield when merging may collide with a passing motorcycle.

📞 If a driver failed to yield and caused your motorcycle crash, Hawkins Law Firm can help.

5. Road Hazards – Dangerous Conditions for Motorcyclists

Why Road Hazards Pose a Greater Risk to Motorcyclists

Unlike cars, motorcycles lack stability and protective barriers, making riders highly vulnerable to road hazards. Even a small pothole or piece of debris can cause a motorcyclist to lose control.

Common Road Hazards in Edmond:

⚠ Potholes & Uneven Pavement – Construction zones and poorly maintained roads increase accident risks.
⚠ Loose Gravel & Debris – Gravel, sand, and fallen debris make turning and braking difficult for motorcycles.
⚠ Railroad Tracks & Wet Roads – Slick surfaces increase the risk of skidding and hydroplaning.

Who is Responsible for Road Hazard Accidents?

✔ The City of Edmond – If poor road maintenance caused your crash, the city may be liable.
✔ Construction Companies – If a poorly marked construction site caused your accident, the contractor may be held responsible.
✔ Truck & Commercial Drivers – If cargo fell from a truck and created road hazards, we can hold the trucking company liable.

📞 If a road hazard caused your motorcycle accident, call Hawkins Law Firm today for legal guidance.

Steps to Take Following a Motorcycle Accident in Edmond, Oklahoma – Protecting Your Health & Legal Rights

A motorcycle accident can be a life-altering event, leaving riders with serious injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. Whether you’re riding through downtown Edmond, cruising along Route 66, or navigating heavy traffic on I-35, accidents can happen in an instant. In the moments following a crash, it’s crucial to stay calm and take immediate action to ensure your safety, document the scene, and protect your legal rights.

At Hawkins Law Firm, we represent injured motorcyclists in Edmond and help them secure full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and damages. By following these essential steps after a motorcycle accident, you can strengthen your case and improve your chances of a successful legal outcome.

Step 1: Ensure Safety – Check for Injuries & Move to a Safe Location

Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries, so checking yourself and others for harm is the first priority. Due to the lack of protective barriers on motorcycles, riders are at risk of:

🚑 Head & Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
🚑 Spinal Cord & Neck Injuries
🚑 Fractures, Road Rash, & Internal Injuries

What to Do Immediately After the Accident:

✔ Check Yourself & Passengers for Injuries – If you’re unable to move, stay still and wait for emergency responders.
✔ Move to a Safe Location (If Possible) – If you’re in the middle of a busy road like 2nd Street or Danforth Road, move to the shoulder or a sidewalk if it’s safe to do so.
✔ Turn on Hazard Lights or Use a Flashlight – If it’s dark, use your motorcycle’s lights or a phone flashlight to make yourself visible to other drivers.

📞 If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately.

Step 2: Call Emergency Services – Report the Accident to the Police

Even if the accident seems minor, calling the police is essential for legal and insurance purposes.

Why Calling 911 is Crucial:

🚔 A Police Report Creates an Official Record – Insurance companies will require an accident report to process your claim.
🚔 Police Can Determine Fault – Officers will interview witnesses and assess the crash scene.
🚔 It’s Required for Injury or Significant Damage – Oklahoma law requires you to report accidents that result in injuries or major property damage.

What to Tell the Police:

✔ Provide Factual Information – Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.
✔ Ask for a Copy of the Police Report – You will need it for your insurance claim and potential lawsuit.

📞 Always call 911 after a motorcycle accident, even if you think the injuries are minor.

Step 3: Document the Scene – Gather Evidence for Your Case

The evidence you collect at the scene will be critical in proving fault and supporting your claim. Since motorcycles are smaller than cars, insurance companies often try to blame riders, even when they aren’t at fault.

What to Capture with Your Phone:

📸 Your Motorcycle & the Other Vehicle(s) – Take pictures from multiple angles showing damage and impact points.
📸 Road Conditions & Traffic Signs – Capture skid marks, potholes, traffic signals, and hazardous conditions.
📸 Injuries – Document visible injuries like bruises, cuts, and fractures.
📸 License Plates & Driver’s License – Make sure to get clear images of the other driver’s license and plate number.

🚨 Pro Tip: If possible, record a video describing what happened immediately after the accident while your memory is fresh.

Step 4: Gather Information – Exchange Details & Speak to Witnesses

Oklahoma law requires drivers and motorcyclists involved in accidents to exchange information.

Information You Should Collect:

✔ Other Driver’s Name, Contact Info, & Insurance Details
✔ Vehicle Make, Model, & License Plate Number
✔ Names & Contact Info of Any Witnesses

Why Witness Statements Matter:

Eyewitness accounts can support your case if the other driver tries to deny fault.

🚨 Pro Tip: If the other driver refuses to provide insurance details, wait for the police to arrive and let them handle it.

Step 5: Seek Medical Attention – Some Injuries Aren’t Immediately Noticeable

Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not appear for hours or days. Concussions, internal bleeding, and soft tissue damage often have delayed symptoms.

Why Seeing a Doctor is Critical:

🚑 Protect Your Health – Internal injuries can worsen if left untreated.
🚑 Medical Records Strengthen Your Case – A doctor’s evaluation connects your injuries directly to the accident.
🚑 Insurance Companies May Deny Your Claim if You Delay Treatment – Seeking care immediately shows that your injuries are serious.

Where to Seek Medical Treatment in Edmond:

🏥 OU Health Edmond Medical Center – Emergency trauma care for serious injuries.
🏥 Mercy Clinic Urgent Care – Edmond – Treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.
🏥 Edmond Physical Therapy & Chiropractic Centers – Recovery services for whiplash, fractures, and back pain.

🚨 Pro Tip: Even if you visit an ER, schedule a follow-up with a doctor for ongoing care.

Step 6: Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer – Protect Your Rights

Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto motorcyclists or offer lowball settlements. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help you recover the maximum compensation.

Why You Need a Lawyer After a Motorcycle Accident:

⚖ We Handle Insurance Companies – We negotiate to ensure you receive a fair payout.
⚖ We Prove Fault & Liability – We use accident reconstructions, witness statements, and expert testimony to hold the at-fault party accountable.
⚖ We Fight for Full Compensation – We seek damages for:
✔ Medical bills & rehabilitation costs
✔ Lost wages & future income
✔ Pain, suffering, & emotional distress
✔ Property damage & motorcycle repairs

Why Choose Hawkins Law Firm?

✅ We offer FREE consultations.
✅ No upfront fees – you don’t pay unless we win your case.
✅ We have a proven track record of winning motorcycle accident claims in Edmond.

📞 Call Hawkins Law Firm today to speak with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney!

Why Choose Hawkins Law Firm?

Selecting the right legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s why Hawkins Law Firm is the preferred choice for motorcycle accident victims in Edmond:

• Extensive Experience: With over 20 years of dedicated service, we have a deep understanding of personal injury law and a proven track record of successful case outcomes.

• Personalized Attention: We recognize that each case is unique. Our team provides tailored legal strategies to meet your specific needs, ensuring you receive individualized attention throughout the process.

• Comprehensive Support: From the initial consultation through resolution, we guide you through every step of the legal process, keeping you informed and empowered to make decisions.

• Contingency Fee Basis: You pay no legal fees unless we secure compensation for you. This approach ensures that quality legal representation is accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in Edmond, Oklahoma, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Contact Hawkins Law Firm today for a free consultation. Let our experienced team advocate for your rights and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Remember, at Hawkins Law Firm, we care about you, not just your case. Trust us to be your steadfast ally in the pursuit of justice.