For those who love motorcycles, there is nothing that beats a ride on a powerful two-wheeler. It is also much more economical than a car. However, motorcycles come with many risks too. Serious accidents can result from motorcycles. According to 2011 statistics for motorcycle accidents, 441 deaths of motorcycle drivers or passengers occurred – and that was just in one state, Texas. 53% of those killed in these accidents were not wearing helmets when the crash took place. Motorcycle fatalities represent roughly 5% of all annual highway fatalities.
Avoiding Motorcycle Accidents
You can avoid becoming a statistic and avoid motorcycle accidents by practicing safe riding habits. Here are simple yet highly effective ways to make sure that you avoid being in a motorcycle accident:
- Learn to ride properly – Accidents often occur because motorcyclists do not have sufficient riding skills. You should make sure that you develop good riding skills and learn about your bike. You should know what to expect from them, including how they perform in different road conditions and how you need to maneuver them in each unique situation.
- Be ready for the unexpected – You need to make sure that you are ready to respond to various common occurrences, such as cars passing one another without noticing oncoming motorcycles, cars taking a left turn in front of a motorcycle, etc. You need to remember that other vehicle drivers may not see you and that you may have to take evasive action immediately in order to avoid a collision. You need to be ready to swerve or stop without losing control of your motorcycle so that you do not collide with a vehicle that has not given you right-of-way.
- Slow down – Factors such as slick, icy, or rainy roads conditions can play a part in causing many motorcycle accidents. But most accidents do not occur in such conditions. In fact, it is when roads are dry that motorcyclists are tempted to speed and take unnecessary risks. Speeding, hot-dogging and other dangerous riding behavior should be avoided.
- Avoid drinking and driving – According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the highest number of motorcycle fatalities in the country took place in Texas and out of the total number of people who died, 37% had a BAC of .08 or higher. You need balance and coordination when operating a motorcycle and these can be adversely affected by alcohol, drugs and some prescription pills. It is simple – never drink and ride a motorcycle.
Motorcycle Accidents and Personal Injury
Car and motorcycle crashes are one of the leading causes of personal injury in the United States. If you have been injured in an accident that was caused by another driver or rider, you may be eligible to receive compensation for damages. You can obtain compensation for medical bills, loss of income, pain and suffering, future medical costs, etc.
The Best Law Firm in the Industry
If you or loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you should immediately seek the help of a trained and reliable personal injury lawyer at Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff, & Wolff of RMFW Law at 212-344-1000. Hard work is one thing. We do that. But we work smart too. We know how to build the toughest case. We know how to exploit weaknesses in the opposition’s case. We charge you nothing up front. Give RMFW Law a call and let’s hear what you have to say. Is your case viable? The first meeting is free – it costs you nothing to call us. We are not paid until you are paid.
