Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Distracted Drivers in Alberta
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of serious motorcycle accidents in Alberta. A single glance at a text, a moment adjusting the radio, or a quick look away from the road is all it takes to devastate a rider's life.
Unlike car occupants, motorcyclists don't have the protection of airbags or seatbelts. When a distracted driver makes a mistake, the rider almost always suffers the worst injuries.
If you or a loved one has been injured because another driver wasn't paying attention, you may be entitled to significant compensation. As Alberta motorcycle accident lawyers, we've seen firsthand how distraction leads to catastrophic crashes — and how insurers often downplay these cases.
This guide explains:
Why Distracted Driving Is So Dangerous for Motorcyclists
Motorcycles are smaller, quieter, and less visible than cars. A distracted driver may fail to notice a rider entirely — until it's too late.
Key Risk Factors:
Compensation for Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Distracted Drivers
If you were injured by a distracted driver, you can claim compensation for economic and non-economic losses, including:
Medical and Rehabilitation Costs
Hospital care, physiotherapy, and medication.
Lost Income and Earning Capacity
For time off work or long-term disability.
Pain and Suffering
For physical pain, mental distress, and emotional trauma.
Future Care Needs
Ongoing treatment, surgeries, or counseling.
Property Damage
Repair or replacement of your motorcycle and gear.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Travel, home help, and prescription costs.
Steps to Take After a Distracted Driving Motorcycle Accident
Acting quickly after a crash can protect both your health and your legal rights:
Call 911 Immediately
Report the crash and ensure police note evidence of distracted driving.
Get Medical Attention
Even if feeling fine, internal injuries or concussions may develop later.
Take Photos and Videos
Document the scene, vehicles, and any visible cell phones or distractions.
Collect Witness Information
Witnesses can confirm if the other driver was texting or inattentive.
Keep All Medical and Expense Records
Save receipts, reports, and treatment summaries to quantify losses.
Avoid Speaking to the Other Driver's Insurer
Their adjusters may downplay distraction or shift blame; refer all communication to your lawyer.
Contact an Alberta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Early
Legal representation ensures evidence is preserved and the insurer takes your claim seriously.
How a Lawyer Helps Victims of Distracted Drivers
Proving distraction requires specialized evidence and legal expertise. We work to:
Investigating Distraction
Subpoenaing phone records and obtaining crash data.
Preserving Evidence
Ensuring dashcam and surveillance footage aren't deleted.
Challenging Insurer Defenses
Countering claims that you were at fault or "invisible."
Calculating Full Compensation
Including future care and psychological recovery.
Handling Negotiations and Litigation
Ensuring the insurer pays full value, not assumptions.
Case Example
A Red Deer rider was struck when a driver looked down to adjust her GPS. The insurer initially denied distraction, claiming the rider was speeding. We obtained phone logs showing a text sent seconds before the crash and secured a **$325,000 settlement** for medical care, pain and suffering, and lost wages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Distracted driving is one of the most preventable causes of motorcycle accidents — yet it remains one of the most common. When a careless driver's momentary lapse changes your life, Alberta law gives you the right to hold them fully accountable.
Distracted driving is illegal and grounds for a full compensation claim.
Motorcycle victims often suffer catastrophic injuries.
Evidence like phone records and witness statements is crucial to proving fault.
A lawyer ensures insurers and courts focus on facts, not denials or bias.
Injured by a distracted driver in Alberta? Contact us today for a free consultation.
No fee unless we win.