Motorcycling in Utah offers unparalleled freedom, with stunning routes through canyons, mountains, and open deserts drawing riders from all over. However, accidents can happen to even the most cautious motorcyclists, often due to the negligence of other drivers. Unfortunately, misconceptions about motorcycle accidents persist, which can mislead victims and complicate their pursuit of justice. As a personal injury law firm specializing in motorcycle cases in Utah, we have seen how these myths can harm riders’ rights. In this article, we will debunk five common myths and reveal the realities, backed by the facts and Utah specific laws, to help you stay informed and protected.
Myth 1: Motorcycle Riders Are Always At Fault In Accidents
Many people assume that motorcyclists are reckless thrill seekers who cause their own crashes through speeding and risky maneuvers. This stereotype paints riders as the primary culprits, but it’s far from the truth.
Reality:
In reality a significant number of motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers failing to see or yield to motorcyclists. For instance, one of the most common scenarios is a car making a left turn directly into an oncoming motorcycle. According to data, other drivers’ perception failures (like not scanning properly for motorcycles) contribute to about 30% of crashes, outweighing riders’ errors.
In Utah, where roads can be filled with tourists and commuters, this is especially relevant. Under Utah’s modified comparative negligence law, fault is apportioned between parties. If you are less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages, reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Blaming the rider outright ignores evidence like witness statements or traffic footage, which our firm uses to build strong cases.
Myth 2: Helmets Don’t Make a Significant Difference in Accidents or Claims
Some riders and even insurers downplay the role of helmets, claiming they are uncomfortable, restrict vision, or won’t affect the outcome of a claim anyway.
Reality:
Helmets are proven to reduce the risk of head injuries by up to 88% in crashes. In Utah, helmets are legally required for riders under 18, but they are recommended for everyone to minimize injury severity. Not wearing one can impact your claim, as insurance companies may argue it contributed to your injuries under comparative negligence rules. However, it doesn’t automatically bar emphasizing that helmets save lives and can strengthen your case by showing responsible riding.
Myth 3: Most Motorcycle Accidents Are Caused by Speeding or Reckless Riders
The image of motorcyclists as speed demons leads to the belief that excessive speed is the main cause of crashes, especially among young or inexperienced riders.
Reality:
Contrary to this myth, most motorcycle accidents occur at speeds under 45 mph, and speeding by riders is a factor in only a small percentage of cases. In fact, unsafe acts by motorcyclists contribute to about 44% of crashes, but failures by other drivers (like not yielding) play a role in 70% of multi-vehicle accidents. Accidents affect riders of all ages, with over 52% of fatalities involving those 40 and older. In Utah, where weather and road conditions vary, crashes often stem from distracted driving or poor visibility, not just rider error. Understanding this helps victims avoid unfair blame and pursue fair compensation.
Myth 4: Lane Splitting is a Safe and Legal Practice Everywhere
Lane splitting, riding between lanes of slow moving traffic, is sometimes seen as a smart way to avoid a rear end collision, and riders may assume it is allowed or harmless.
Reality:
In Utah, lane splitting is explicitly illegal; motorcyclists must not ride between lanes or rows of cars. While it’s permitted in some states under specific conditions, violating this in Utah can lead to citations and increased liability in an accident. Utah law also prohibits more than two motorcycles riding side-by-side in a single lane and requires full lane changes when passing. This myth can lead to preventable crashes, but knowing the rules empowers riders to stay safe and strengthens legal claims if another driver’s negligence causes an incident.
Myth 5: You Don’t Need a Lawyer for a Motorcycle Accident Claim, Insurance Will Handle it Fairly
Many believe that filing a claim with insurance is straightforward and that companies will offer a fair settlement without legal help, especially for minor accidents.
Reality:
Insurance policies often fall short, with limits, deductibles, and exclusions leaving riders to cover medical bills, lost wages, and repairs out of pockets. In Utah, motorcycles are not typically covered under standard auto PIP (Personal injury Protection), so riders may need to file a claim immediately if damages exceed $3,000. Insurers frequently lowball offers or dispute fault to minimize insurance payouts.
Even minor crashes have long-term effects, like hidden injuries. Hiring a lawyer ensures proper documentation, negotiation, and maximization of compensation under Utah’s no fault thresholds and comparative negligence rules. Our firm has secured settlements that cover not just immediate costs but future needs, proving legal expertise makes a real difference.
Motorcycle accidents in Utah can be devastating, but debunking these myths empowers riders to make safer choices and seek the justice they deserve. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, don’t let misconceptions stand in your way. Contact our Utah personal injury law firm today for a free consultation. We are here to fight for your rights and help you recover what you are owed. Stay safe on the roads!