Motorcycle Safety & Preventing Accidents
The State of California has some of the most beautiful and scenic roads in the country. Due to the scenery, many California roadways have a large number of motorcycle drivers in comparison to other states around the nation. The influx of motorcyclists, however, has also brought forth an insurgence of roadway accidents. While traffic and other elements can be a great cause for motorcycle-involved accidents, there are proactive safety precautions motorcycle drivers can take to lower the risk of an incident. The following article will highlight some of the most essential tips you can practice as a motorcycle enthusiast.
Making Motorcycle Safety a Top Priority
Without a doubt, driving/riding a motorcycle requires different skills than that of driving any other personal vehicle. It is important to recognize, however, that roadway laws apply to all drivers alike. As a motorcyclist, it important that you continue to enhance your driving skills in order to reduce the potential for an accident. The following tips can not only help to save your life, but that of others around you as well.
- Be consistent in wearing the appropriate safety gear.
One of the best and most fundamental tools of safety you can use is that of a well-fitting helmet. A helmet alone can be useful in preventing a severe head injury, which is one of the worst possible injuries you can sustain as a result of a motorcycle accident. Other forms of protective gear include
- Wearing leather clothing,
- Sturdy shoes and/or boots, and
- Attaching a reflective tape onto your protective gear.
- Obey all traffic signals.
It is easy for many drivers to go above the speed limit, especially in the State of California, a place where rush hour seems to the norm. While you cannot control the safety produced by other drivers, be sure to do your part and practice safe driving. Give yourself enough time to reach a destination and be aware of the local rules and regulations including those of speed limits.
- Continue your education in order to keep your driving skills sharp.
Every motorcyclist can undergo a safety program in order to keep his or her skills sharp, but these programs are especially valuable to those who have recently begun driving a motorcycle or have otherwise been driving one for many years. Riding courses can help motorcyclists develop new riding techniques and strategies.
The State of California Department of Motor Vehicles website has more information regarding motorcycle safety. The California Highway Patrol offers what is known as the California Motorcycle Safety Program that teaches riders roadway safety.
Motorcycle Fatalities 28X National Average Over Motor Vehicles
The San Gabriel Valley Tribune reported that motorcycle accidents result in a fatality 28 times the national average compared to accidents involving motor vehicle accidents. Additionally, the article reported that fatal accidents involving motorcycles have more than doubled since 1997. There’s a lot of speculation as to why these statistics are on the rise, but increased traffic congestion and more people opting to ride a motorcycle to get to work faster has been cited as a cause. Although newer vehicles have more safety features today than ever before, they still can’t stop a driver from being distracted, quickly changing lanes without signaling or driving recklessly.
In the Event of an Accident
Even the safest riders can find themselves involved in a motorcycle accident. If you or someone you know has been injured as the result of a careless driver, seek legal support immediately. An experienced attorney can help guide you through the process of filing for a personal injury claim.
Martinez & Schill, LLP, are highly skilled San Diego motorcycle accident lawyers who have the results and experience to help you and your family. If you have been injured by the carelessness or negligence of another driver, finding the right attorney can be crucial for your case. Personal injury claims have strict time limitations, contact us today at 951-200-4630 to set up a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your matter.