Motorcycle Accidents

Since 1997, injuries and deaths from motorcycle accidents has steadily risen. By 2002, 3276 motorcycle riders died in accidents, 50% more than that of 1997. The number of non-fatal injuries from accidents was 65,000, a 23 % increase. Motorcyclists are 21 times more likely to die and four times more likely to be injured in a crash per mile traveled than are the occupants of a car. Approximately three-fourths of motorcycle accidents involved collisions with another vehicle. Approximately one-fourth of these motorcycle accidents were single vehicle accidents involving the motorcycle colliding with the roadway or some fixed object in the environment. Like other motor vehicle accidents, motorcycle accidents are much more likely when the driver is speeding and/or under the influence of alcohol. 

Here are some simple steps to follow to avoid motorcycle accidents.

Here's How:

1. Ride assuming that you and your motorcycle are totally invisible to motorists.
2. Leave plenty of space in front and back and to the sides from all other vehicles.
3. Anticipate trouble situations and know what to do when you see them.
4. Beware of motorists turning left in front of you at intersections. This is a leading cause of injuries to motorcycle riders.
5. Slow down as your motorcycle enters an intersection and be prepared to make an evasive maneuver if necessary.
6. Never drink or take drugs and try to ride a motorcycle.
7. Don't ride if you are on medication that makes you sleepy.
8. Avoid riding at night, especially late Saturday night and early Sunday when drunken drivers may be on the road.
9. Beware of riding your motorcycle into sun glare.
10. Don't try to keep up with your friends who may be more experienced. Know your personal limits.
11. Beware of taking curve that you can't see around. A parked truck or a patch of sand may be awaiting you.
12. Do not give in to road rage and try to 'get even' with another rider or motorist.
13. If someone is tailgating you, either speed up to open more space or pull over and let them pass.

Tips:

1. Do not prescribe to the tactic of throwing something on the road behind you to warn a tailgater to back off.
2. Take a motorcycle safety course to learn what to look for to avoid accidents.
3. Wear protective clothing and a helmet in case you forget these tips and find yourself sliding across a concrete road on your backside.

If you or a loved one was injured as a result of a motorcycle accident, please complete our contact form by clicking here. An experienced Motorcycle accident attorney will provide you with an immediate and free consultation. Remember, the Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff is available for legal consultation 24 hours a day, seven days a week.