May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month: What Drivers Need to Know to Avoid Liability
May marks Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, a timely reminder for drivers across Ohio to stay alert and share the road responsibly. As warmer weather arrives, more motorcyclists take to the streets—and unfortunately, so do preventable accidents. For drivers, understanding how these crashes happen and how liability is determined can make all the difference in avoiding legal consequences.
At Zaber Law, we see firsthand how devastating motorcycle accidents can be. Many of these collisions are caused not by reckless riding, but by drivers who simply fail to see or properly yield to motorcycles.
Why Motorcycle Accidents Are Different
Motorcycles are smaller, less visible, and more vulnerable than passenger vehicles. Unlike cars, riders don’t have the protection of airbags or a steel frame. Even a minor collision can result in serious injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, or worse.
Because of this, drivers are expected to exercise extra caution when sharing the road with motorcycles. Failing to do so can quickly turn into a liability issue if an accident occurs.
Common Driver Mistakes That Lead to Liability
Understanding what causes motorcycle crashes is key to avoiding them—and avoiding legal responsibility.
1. Failing to Yield at Intersections
One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents is when a driver turns left in front of an oncoming rider. Misjudging speed or simply not seeing the motorcycle can lead to devastating consequences.
2. Unsafe Lane Changes
Motorcycles can easily be hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot. Drivers who fail to check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes risk sideswiping a rider.
3. Distracted Driving
Texting, adjusting navigation, or even eating behind the wheel can cause a driver to overlook a motorcycle entirely.
4. Following Too Closely
Motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars in certain situations. Tailgating increases the risk of rear-end collisions, which can be especially dangerous for riders.
5. Dooring Accidents
Opening a car door into the path of an oncoming motorcycle—especially in urban areas—can result in serious injuries and clear liability for the driver.
How Liability Is Determined in Ohio
Ohio follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning fault can be shared between parties. However, if a driver is found to be more than 50% at fault, they can be held financially responsible for damages such as:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term rehabilitation costs
Even if a motorcyclist is partially at fault, drivers can still be liable for a portion of the damages.
What Drivers Can Do to Avoid Liability
Preventing accidents—and legal trouble—comes down to awareness and good driving habits:
- Double-check for motorcycles at intersections and before turning
- Use turn signals early and clearly
- Check blind spots carefully before changing lanes
- Maintain a safe following distance
- Stay focused—avoid distractions at all costs
- Be extra cautious during peak riding months (spring through fall)
Simply put: if you don’t see a motorcycle, assume one is there anyway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are motorcyclists always considered at fault because they’re harder to see?
No. Drivers have a duty to be aware of all vehicles on the road, including motorcycles. Failing to see a motorcycle is not a valid legal defense.
Q: What happens if both the driver and motorcyclist share fault?
Ohio’s comparative negligence law allows injured parties to recover damages as long as they are less than 51% at fault. Compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault.
Q: Can a driver be liable for a motorcycle accident even at low speeds?
Yes. Even low-speed collisions can cause serious injuries to motorcyclists, and drivers can still be held responsible.
Q: What if the motorcyclist wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Ohio law does not require all riders to wear helmets. While it may be considered in certain injury claims, it does not automatically eliminate driver liability.
Q: Should I call the police after a motorcycle accident?
Absolutely. A police report is critical for documenting the scene and determining fault.
Protect Yourself—and Others—on the Road
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is about more than just education—it’s about prevention. By staying alert and respecting motorcyclists’ space on the road, drivers can help reduce accidents and avoid serious legal consequences.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident, Zaber Law is here to help. Understanding your rights early can make a significant difference in your case.
