Tips for Motorcycle Safety
Hellooo Summer! As the weather becomes nicer, more motorcyclist will emerge onto roadways. For some, there is nothing quite therapeutic, as cruising on the open road. Unfortunately, motorcycles can be extremely dangerous – especially in the company of other drivers. Motorcycle deaths account for 5 percent of all highway fatalities each year, yet motorcycles only represent two percent of all registered vehicles. In fact, motorcyclists, are approximately 27 times more likely to be seriously injured than occupants of automobiles when involved in a collision. Common injuries of motorcyclist are road rash, broken bones, amputation of limbs, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and internal injuries. The most common type of accident involving motorcycles are head-on collisions. In fact, 78 percent of motorcycle crashes involving other vehicles on the road are head-on collisions. Other types of motorcycle crashes include blind spot collisions, rear-end crashes, and motorcycle defects.
When riding a motorcycle, please remember the following:
- Be seen. Add reflective elements to both your clothing and bike. Use your lights at all times. Drive in the lane that makes you most visible.
- Wear protective gear. ALWAYS wear a helmet. Statistics show, wearing a helmet is the best way to prevent severe head injuries. Further, riders who don’t wear helmets are five times more likely to sustain a critical head injury. Protective clothing can reduce the amount of injuries you sustain if you are involved in an accident. Wear clothing made from protective microfibers, boots with nonskid soles, and gloves.
- Be alert. Watch for potholes, railroad tracks, other road hazards, and other motorist. Be prepared for sudden lane changes and swerves.
- Beware of intersections. Approximately half of all crashes occur at intersections. Be on high alert so you can respond appropriately.
- Get schooled. Whether you are a new or seasoned motorcyclist, take a motorcycle safety course. Classes offered both online and in person. Many insurance companies offer discounts on premiums if a course is completed.
Statistically, nearly 80 percent of motorcycle crashes result in serious injury or death. Poorly designed highways, obstructions in the road, defective design, negligent drivers and weather conditions can contribute to a motorcycle crash. If you are injured in a motorcycle crash, please give us a call. We understand the issues which make motorcycle claims unique. We have the experience, resources, and skills to handle your claim. Let us investigate for you. Let us fight for you. For more information about the services we provide, send us an email i[email protected] or give us a call (404) 965-7112.
The Kubanyi Law Firm – small enough to care and smart enough to win!