Without a doubt, riding a motorcycle in the State of California is a form of transportation where riders can enjoy the beautiful California scenery and comfortable weather. Although riding a motorcycle can represent a unique and exciting experience, the experience does not come without risk. Unfortunately, motorcycle driving is one of the most dangerous methods of transportation due to the amount of exposure riders are frequently subjected to. In comparison to other vehicles, motorcyclists will not be able to rely on the protection that is typically provided by a car’s windshield, metal body frame, or airbag support. In the event of a collision, many cyclists can often be ejected from their motorcycle, even on seemingly minor incidents.
When car accidents happen, the appropriate use of a seatbelt has been responsible for saving many lives. The problem with motorcycles is that seatbelts are not an option and leaves riders without the benefit of them. Among other dangers, a motorcycle is a vehicle that is far smaller than other vehicles on a roadway. This can make riders far less visible and if the motorcyclist is riding at night or in low-visibility weather conditions, the consequences can be disastrous for the rider.
According to data provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation, despite the dangers that motorcycles pose, there approximately 9 million motorcyclists. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported that there are more riders today than any other point in time in history.
In speaking of the dangers of using a motorcycle as a means of transportation, is it important to note that motorcycle-involved accidents can happen as a result of multiple factors. If you are a motorcycle enthusiast in the State of California, consult a specialized attorney who handles personal injury claims. As a victim, you should know that you have rights and among these, you have the legal right to pursue a lawsuit to seek financial restitution for your losses. A skilled attorney in California can help you file a claim that could ultimately help you win the damages you deserve.
Motorcycle Accident Cause #1: Weather Conditions
A motorcycle is no match for sleek roads caused by ice or rain. While many statistics do not highlight weather conditions as being a primary factor is causing a motorcycle accident, weather conditions can nonetheless be a compounding factor in causing accidents. A collision could occur as a result of a slipper road, which could happen because of a light rain or an unexpected downpour.
Motorcycle Accident Cause #2: Age Factors
Shockingly, a motorcycle rider who is older in age can represent a higher risk for deadly accidents involving motorcycles. This information is provided by the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration and according to their statistics, close to 60 percent of motorcyclists killed in the year 2011 were of 40 year or older.
Motorcycle Accident Cause #3: Reckless Drivers
Motorcycle riders across the state have to routinely share the road with hundreds of other riders who owe riders the reasonable duty of driving safely. This means that riders can expect other drivers to refrain from driving under the influence as well as refrain from driving recklessly. Regrettably, this is not always the case: a person who drivers in a negligent manner can easily cause an unnecessary collision with a motorcyclist.
If you are a rider who was injured as a result of a reckless motorist, seek the legal support of an attorney who can help you file a claim against the negligent driver. As an injured victim, you could recover compensation for you losses.
Rider Safety
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 80% of reported cyclist crashes will result in either an injury or fatality. Such a high-risk rate makes it crucial for every rider to do whatever is in his or her power to ensure his or her safety.
Wear protective gear.
Whether the commute is simply around the corner or at a long distance, it is very important for riders to always wear protective gear when using a motorcycle. An accident can happen at any place or at any time and failing to wear appropriate gear can be detrimental to the safety of the rider. Some of the most important protective garments include thick pants and jackets, boots, gloves, and eye protection.
Use a Department of Transportation approved helmet.
Using a protective helmet is perhaps one of the most essential pieces of protective gear every motorcycle rider should wear. While a helmet will not be a complete guarantee on saving a rider’s life, it is essential in reducing the risk of traumatic head injuries. Generally, helmets should be replaced after every four to five years or after an accident has taken place.
Use extreme precaution while sharing.
Although lane splitting is permissible under California State law, it does not diminish the dangers that motorcyclists face. When sharing a lane, a motorcyclist faces the possibility of not being seen by a driver changing lanes. Many motorcycle riders will also fail to recognize that high traffic zones can also be dangerous. It is important to always be vigilant when passing other vehicles and drive at reasonable speeds.
The Bottom Line: Not Every Motorcycle Accident Will Be Preventable
Despite the any proactive approach a motorcyclist can use to prevent an accident from happening, sharing highways with other drivers will place a certain degree of responsibility on other drivers as well. This means that an accident cannot be 100% preventable by a motorcyclist alone.
If you or someone you know has recently experienced a roadway accident, seek the legal expertise of an experienced attorney. When motorcycle accidents happen, it is important to safeguard one’s legal rights, a skilled attorney can help to ensure that your rights are protected.
The attorneys at SANFORD KASSEL, A Public Law Corporation are highly skilled in the field of motorcycle accident claims. They have dedicated their legal professions to ensuring that the rights of motorcycle accident victims are upheld. Motorcycle accidents can be costly and cause extreme physical and emotional pain; seek the legal expertise of a skilled attorney as soon as possible.
