Motorcycle Safety and the Importance of Protecting Yourself
Practicing motorcycle safety is important when it comes to preventing serious accidents. Motorcycle crashes can result in serious trauma and even death for those on board. The most common types of motorcycle-related injuries include head and spinal cord trauma, abrasions, bone fractures and internal organ damage. In addition to physical injury, motorcycle crashes can also cause psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle crash caused by a negligent driver or other entity, you may be entitled to compensation. It is important to talk to a personal injury attorney to have your case evaluated to see if you can place a claim, explain your legal rights and options and help you seek the justice and financial recovery you need to move forward.
Motorcycle Safety Facts for Riders
Motorcycle riders are at greater risk for serious injury or death than those in other vehicles, so it is important to ride safely to avoid accidents. Reports by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) state that motorcyclists face a 28 times likelihood of dying in a crash than those in a passenger car. Motorcycle safety, such as wearing protective gear, can reduce injuries and fatalities in the event of an accident.
There are various safety tips that motorcyclists should keep in mind when out on the road. These include:
- Wearing appropriate clothing, such as bright colors or reflective stripes
- Avoiding distractions like eating or drinking while riding
- Taking weather conditions into account when planning a ride
- Always wearing a motorcycle safety helmet that meets the Department of Transportation (DOT) standards for safety
- Staying visible by keeping headlights on at all times and avoiding blind spots
- Practicing defensive driving techniques such as looking ahead to anticipate problems and being aware of other drivers’ actions
- Never riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Why You Need Legal Representation After a Motorcycle Accident Injury
After a motorcycle accident, it is important to have legal representation on your side. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights under the law. A lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in ensuring that you receive adequate compensation for any damages suffered due to the negligence of another driver or party involved in the crash. Additionally, an attorney can help you protect yourself from insurance companies and other parties who may seek to take advantage of you.
A lawyer specializing in personal injury cases will be able to thoroughly investigate your case and determine whether or not there is sufficient evidence to support filing a lawsuit against the responsible party. This can include gathering witness statements, surveillance footage, police reports and other evidence that may apply to your case. An attorney can also help you understand the laws in California and ensure that any settlement or award is fair and just.
Uninsured/Underinsured Driver Coverage
Obtaining uninsured/underinsured driver coverage is just as important for a motorcyclist as it is for other drivers. This type of insurance kicks in if a motorist causes your injuries and is either uninsured or cannot pay what you deserve. If you do not have this coverage but a family member does, their policy can be used instead. It does not affect the rates in the future.
California Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
I am Ed Smith, a California motorcycle accident lawyer. When a negligent driver or other entity caused your accident injury, you need help to obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact us for free and friendly advice at (916) 921-6400. We can also be reached at (800) 404-5400 or online.
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Photo attribution: Image by Albrecht Fietz from Pixabay
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