Motorcycle crashes often result in some of the most devastating injuries
possible during a vehicle crash, with riders suffering trauma that can
lead to permanent disability or death. As such, the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA) has declared May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness
Month, a time for motorcyclists and car drivers alike to be aware of the
dangers of such accidents and focus on driving safely and preventing injuries.
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According to the NHTSA, there were 4,502 deaths from
fatal motorcycle accidents in 2010, accounting for 14 percent of all vehicle fatalities for the year.
Additionally, motorcyclists were 25 times more likely to die in a crash
than passenger vehicle occupants and five times more likely to be injured.
Because motorcycle crashes are so likely to result in a biker being injured
or dying, it is important for all on the road to drive as safely as possible.
To keep the roads as safe as possible, the NHTSA encourages both motorcyclists
and drivers to practice safe driving methods, including respecting motorcyclists’
rights and privileges on the road, always signaling well before turning
or changing lanes, and leave plenty of space between you and the next
vehicle to allow for safe stopping. In particular, car drivers should
not share a lane with a motorcycle, should always be on the lookout for
motorcycles due to their small size, and should also be aware of the speed
and differences in how a motorcycle operates. For motorcyclists, always
wear a proper helmet and safety gear to protect yourself during a crash,
do not ride in drivers’ blind spots, and respect the rules of the road.
However, even the most cautious motorcyclists cannot prevent all accidents due to the negligent actions of some drivers or the dangerous conditions present on roads that are in disrepair. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, a Northern California motorcycle crash lawyer at Caputo & Van Der Walde LLP can help find the proper compensation needed to overcome injuries and related losses. For more information, call our offices today at (800) 900-0863.