Shoulder Drop-Off

It is ironic that something designed to provide a safe place for distressed vehicles and drivers should have such a potentially disastrous effect on motorcyclists and their bikes. But such is the case with the shoulder of many highways.

Typically, the shoulder is separated from the main road surface by a drop-off in roadway height that varies from highway to highway, with similarly differentiated slopes between the two sections of road. Additionally, in some instances the shoulder is built with different material than the main roadway. While for most cars and trucks the differences in height and traction are usually easy to absorb, even when there is a roadway defect affecting the transition, motorcycles are not as well-equipped to handle the shift.

Iowa roadway defects attorney Pete Leehey understands that this is an extra concern for bikers because he is an accomplished and devoted motorcyclist, in addition to being a strong advocate for the legal rights of other motorcycle riders. The nature of the bike’s distribution of weight and balance makes the likelihood of a catastrophic accident caused by a shoulder drop-off significantly greater for a motorcyclist than another motorist.

When the municipality or agency responsible for maintaining the integrity and safety of the shoulder transition fails to carry out their duty, you may be able to seek financial compensation to offset both the tangible and unseen costs incurred by your shoulder drop-off accident.

Contact Us

If an improperly maintained shoulder-drop off has caused you to crash while on your motorcycle, contact Iowa shoulder drop-off lawyer Pete Leehey at 877-209-9452.