| |
The leading cause of motorcycle accidents is the
failure of the motorist to see the motorcyclist. In approximately one half of
all motor vehicle accidents, the view of the motorcycle was limited by a glare
or obstructed by other vehicles. A critical factor for motorcyclists is
conspicuity, or the act of making yourself noticeable on the road. Wear colorful
clothing, use signals and headlights but the most important thing to remember is
to never drive in a car’s blind spot. The safest way to share the road is to
follow this advice, “Assume that you are invisible to other motorists and
operate your motorcycle accordingly.” Almost 70% of motorcycle accidents occur
at intersections because drivers do not see the motorcycle. Since motorcycles
are smaller, other motorists often misjudge how fast a motorcyclist is traveling
and turn into their path of travel causing an accident. This can also happen
while on the highway when changing lanes or simply coming to a stop in traffic.
Tailgating increases the risk of multiple vehicle collisions and motorcyclist
ejections especially when sudden stops or abrupt lane changes are involved.
Uncontrollable factors like inclement weather can
also set the stage for accidents. Inclement weather and obstacles prove more
hazardous for motorcycles than other motor vehicles. Be more cautious when
operating your motorcycle during inclement weather, on slippery road surfaces or
when encountering obstacles on the highway. Drivers of other motor vehicles are
expected to use “caution of care” while driving and should be able to avoid
motorcycle accidents by driving safely and responsibly. However, accidents do
happen, so protect yourself by being a defensive driver at all times and in all
conditions.
The worst kind of negligence is driving while
under the influence of alcohol or drugs. One half of all fatal single vehicle
motorcycle crashes involved alcohol. Operating a motorcycle requires more skill
and coordination than driving a car. Even the smallest amount of a substance can
decrease a motorcyclist’s ability to operate the motorcycle safely. Minimal
impairment is maximum impairment when on a motorcycle. Below are some statistics
from North Carolina to illustrate just how deadly drinking and driving can be,
especially for motorcyclists.
- 40-45% of all riders killed in motorcycle
crashes had been drinking; only a third of these riders were legally drunk.
- 90% of crashes resulting in injury
involved substances, compared to 33% of car accidents.
At Hardison & Associates, our personal injury
attorneys and staff are committed to assisting motorcycle drivers, passengers
and their families cope with the consequences resulting from motor vehicle
accidents. We are also committed to your safety. If you have lost a friend or
family member or if you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle
accident,
contact us. We can help.
What should I do if I am injured in a Motorcycle Accident?
Contact us.
Motorcycle Safety Guidelines
Common Injuries Sustained in Motorcycle Accidents
|
