Preventing Motorcycle Accidents
Preventing Motorcycle Accidents
I’m Ed Smith, a Stockton motorcycle accident attorney. Whether you are an experienced motorcycle rider or new one – everyone is at risk for a motorcycle crash the moment they ride out onto the open road. To really reduce your risk for serious injury, it is crucial to educate yourself about the essentials of motorcycle safety. Riders need to also be aware of the common causes of motorcycle collisions – since a great majority of them are largely preventable. Whether you are sharing the highway with semi-trucks or passenger vehicles, being on high alert for dangerous conditions could very well save your life one day.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
According to the Department of Transportation, riders of motorcycles are involved in fatal crashes 35 times more than those driving in passenger cars and trucks. These crashes often result in a tragic death or catastrophic injuries. Often blood alcohol content and speeding are to blame for fatal motorcycle crashes – whether it is the other driver over the limit or the motorcycle rider themselves.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents in Stockton?
While the crash statistics themselves are quite sobering, the causes for these fatal traffic accidents are even more so – because a great majority of the causes of such crashes are largely preventable. A motorcycle’s size and that it has no seatbelts or other protections automatically sets you at risk for far worse injuries than someone travelling in a car or truck. So, let’s be on the lookout for these common hazards and causes that account for a number of deadly motorcycle accidents each year:
- Left Hand Turn Accidents – When a cyclist is in a crash with a passenger car or truck, it is often due to the driver of the truck or car was making a left-hand turn and failed to see the motorcyclist in that lane.
- Fixed Object Crashes – A large number of fatal motorcycle collisions are caused by a motorcycle hitting a fixed object – such as a sign, light pole or tree. When a motorcyclist strikes a fixed object, they are more likely to pass away in that crash.
- Road Obstructions and Other Highway Hazards – Motorcycle riders love the experience of the wide open road. But, that same road or highway can be a serious safety hazard for motorcyclists. Especially because bikes are not as stable as cars or trucks with four or more wheels. Gravel, wet roads, other objects and debris along the surface of the roadway can pose significant safety hazards. Even a small obstruction that a car could normally drive over can turn life-threatening for someone riding a motorcycle. Minor roadway obstructions can actually throw a motorcyclist from the bike and result in catastrophic injuries and even death.
- Driving While Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol – Sadly, a common cause of motorcycle crashes is riders driving while intoxicated. This is completely preventable and yet riders still continue to drive while impaired. If you have indulged in alcoholic beverages, take a taxicab home. It is just is not worth it to risk your life or the lives of others sharing the road with you.
Have You Been Injured in a Motorcycle Crash?
I’m Ed Smith, a Stockton motorycle accident attorney. If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a motorcycle collision, please contact me today at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice.
I am a member of the Million Dollar Advocates. I work on your behalf and as your advocate to ensure you receive compensation for your serious injuries. I hold those responsible for your serious injuries accountable for your damages. I am available now to help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your lost wages, medical bills and more.
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