Motorcycle Accidents
In 2019, there were 5,014 fatal accidents involving motorcycles across the United States. According to national statistics, motorcyclists are about 26 times more likely to die and five times more likely to be injured in a crash than someone riding in a car. There are a number of hazards to motorcyclists that do not apply to drivers of motor vehicles, including visual recognition and road hazards. Motorcycles are a small visual target and are much more likely to be obscured by other vehicles, and therefore more likely to be involved in an accident. In addition, road conditions while potentially can be a bit of a problem for cars, potholes and uneven pavement are a great danger for motorcyclists. Motorcycle accidents can cause serious injury and even death, and can even be caused by a number of factors, including defects in the design or manufacture of the motorcycle and the negligence of another driver. In fact, in two-thirds of the accidents involving a motorcycle and another vehicle, the driver of the other vehicle violated the motorcyclist’s right of way and caused the accident.
If you were involved in a motorcycle accident, the negative consequences dramatically affect your life and well-being. Seeking appropriate medical care after a motorcycle accident is mandatory. Even if you don’t feel any severe pain, you may have actually suffered serious injuries that will cause chronic conditions later in life. The next step to take after a motorcycle accident is to talk to a motorcycle accident lawyer about your legal options on how to obtain financial compensation for your injuries and medical bills. More information on this website
Safety Tips to protect yourself and others while on the road and avoid catastrophic injuries and even death. The following are the top ten safety tips that will help prevent motorcycle accidents and serious injuries.
1. Eye contact: You should never assume other drivers can see you. Always try to keep eye contact with drivers who may be about to pull out in front of you.
2. Read the vehicle language: Watch drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians with care. Even if they see you approach, it is common for them to misjudge your speed and distance.
3. Watch for vehicles turning left at intersections: This is the most common type of motorcycle accident – when a motorcyclist was hit by an oncoming vehicle turning left. 70% of motorcycle-versus-collisions are at intersections.
4. Look behind you if you are turning: Always look in your mirror and make sure you have enough space behind you if the driver failed to slow down.
5. Watch for hazardous road conditions: There are a number of potentially dangerous road conditions that may increase the likelihood of an accident, including sand, gravel, wet roads, rails, gravel, sealing of the road, potholes, and other hazards of the road ahead that can reduce traction.
6. Drive carefully on curves: A large percentage of motorcycle accidents happen on dangerous curves. Drivers should keep an eye on the road, slow down to a safe speed to negotiate a curve.
7. Wear a good helmet: It is estimated that helmets prevent head injuries in 67% of accidents and deaths at 29%. Used helmets may be damaged and not up to the current safety standards.
8. Protective clothing for motorcyclists: Using protective clothing not only keeps you warm and dry but can also provide some protection in an accident, protecting you from the weather and flying debris. You should never ride a motorcycle in light pants or shorts.
9. Protect your eyes and face: When riding a motorcycle, the wind is blowing in your eyes and potential road hazards, insects, dirt, and dust can damage your face and eyes. Appropriate protective gear includes a helmet with a built-in visor.
10. Be visible: You should always wear bright reflective clothing and keep your lights on while riding a motorcycle. Drive in the lane position where other drivers can easily see you and avoid the blind spots of other vehicles.
Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer for help
Drivers’ negligence is one of the most common causes of road accidents, often involving drivers who text message, change the radio, or talk on the phone. Distracted driving is a serious risk for traffic accidents, especially since motorcycles are smaller and more difficult to detect for other drivers on the road. Unfortunately, a serious motorcycle accident can leave you with long-term injuries that prevent you from returning to work or even carrying out everyday activities such as walking or using the stairs. This greatly reduced quality of life and loss of income is often accompanied by numerous medical bills, which can be a burden for most injured victims. If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident, you have reason to file a lawsuit against the negligent party to compensate for your injuries, pain and suffering, medical expenses, and lost income. There are a number of factors in motorcycle accident litigation, including rules relating to motor vehicles, compliance with traffic rules, and problems of medical treatment considered. By contacting a lawyer about your motorcycle accidents you can ensure that you are aware of your legal options, your rights are protected, and that the responsible party is liable for their negligent acts.