Insight from Ridgefield Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Although motorcycle accidents do not necessarily occur more frequently than other motor vehicles collisions, motorcyclists are more likely to incur serious injuries or die if involved in a crash. Motorcycle riders are involved in 37 times more accidents than vehicle drivers. To help you better understand why this is so, we've listed common causes for motorcycle accidents.
Have questions? Call our Ridgefield motorcycle accident lawyers today at (888) 244-5480.
So, what makes motorcyclists more at-risk of serious injuries and fatalities when compared with motorists in other vehicles?
Some of the major risk factors include:
- Motorcyclists are more difficult to see than other motor vehicles
- Motorcycles are more open and less protective than cars and trucks
- Driving hazards, like potholes and objects in the roadway, are more dangerous for motorcyclists
- Due to the nature of being two-wheel vehicles, motorcycles are less stable than other vehicles
- Other drivers' reckless or negligent actions can have serious consequences for motorcyclists
- Demographics; young males are statistically more likely to operate a motorcycle and more like to engage in risky behaviors
- Lack of proper head protection/safety gear can lead to more injuries/deaths
- Some drivers/motorcyclists engage in drunk driving, which leads to numerous accidents
Be Proactive. Be Safe.
The best way to avoid injury is to avoid accidents. The best way to avoid accidents is through practicing motorcycle safety.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation® offers these tips for biker safety:
- Be visible – Ensure that your headlights work so that motorists can see you, day and night. The use of reflective strips can also make you more visible in oncoming traffic. Use your brake lights and know where blind spots may be in trucks and cars.
- Dress for safety – Wear reflective gear, a helmet and brightly colored clothing or reflective strips. Wearing leather and long, protective gear can help, too.
- Apply effective mental strategies – Make sure that you are always aware of your surroundings and look before crossing lanes, moving through an intersection and responding to motorists. Do not drink and drive and follow posted speed limit signs and rules of the road.
- Know your bike and how to use it – Having proper training and licensing with the motorcycle you will be using is imperative to ensure that you are safe. Know the conditions and the road before riding.
By understanding the common risks of motorcycle accidents, you can take proactive steps to avoid some of these hazardous activities. We hope this information proves helpful. However, while you may take every step to be careful on the road, others may not be. If you were injured because of someone else's negligence, contact our Ridgefield motorcycle accident attorneys today!
Call for a free consultation today at (203) 438-7450.