The Insurance Information Institute recently posted data online about motorcycle accidents around the US. In 2014, motorcycle accidents led to over 4,500 fatalities and 92,000 injuries.
Many accidents are preventable, and taking the appropriate precautions can also reduce the risk of severe injuries.
- The data shows that 39% of motorcyclists who died in 2014 weren’t wearing helmets.
- Motorcyclist training and licensing are essential. Check out the information from the California DMV on operating a motorcycle, and look into the California Highway Patrol’s Motorcyclist Safety Program.
- Motorcyclists need to comply with general traffic safety laws – for example, avoiding speeding and driving while intoxicated. Their safety on the road improves when they apply defensive driving skills. They should leave sufficient space between their motorcycle and other vehicles and objects, remain mindful of other vehicles’ blind spots, and avoid lane-sharing.
Other vehicle operators also share in the responsibility of making the roads safer for motorcyclists:
- Keeping an eye out for motorcyclists, particularly at night. Along with looking for other cars on the road, drivers should remain mindful about motorcycles (and bikes and pedestrians) and check their mirrors more than once.
- Leaving sufficient space between their car and the motorcycle. Motorcycles can stop quite quickly. Also, motorcyclists may need to swerve from one lane to another to avoid a pothole or a similar obstacle. Give them more room on the road.
- And of course, drivers are also subject to the same rules on the road against speeding, failing to signal, improper turns, and driving while intoxicated.
Should you suffer a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to contact us to review your case. An attorney can help you deal with insurance companies and fight for compensation for your losses.
