The National Safety Council (NSC) warns that both motorcycle riders and other drivers have a responsibility to keep motorcyclists safe on the streets. The NSC is trying to raise awareness of motorcycle safety issues by recognizing May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
In many cases, car and truck drivers are to blame for motorcycle accidents. If you were in a crash someone else caused, a motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation from the at-fault driver. Call Max Meyers Law today for a free consultation about your case.
Reasons Why All Drivers Need to Take Motorcycle Safety Seriously
Many motorcycle crashes are preventable. If other drivers on the road had acted safely, many serious or even fatal injuries would not have occurred. Increased public awareness of the common causes of cycle wrecks can help lower the numbers, if people take action as a result of the information.
The NSC says that drivers of other vehicles often collide with motorcycles for these main reasons:
- Motorcycles move in a different way from cars, so drivers do not anticipate where a rider will go next;
- Drivers often do not see or notice motorcycles because they are small in comparison to cars and trucks;
- Many motorists are guilty of distracted driving; and
- The driver cannot see the motorcycle because of visual obstructions or blind spots.
If drivers become more aware of these issues, they can keep a better lookout for motorcycles on the road. Drivers should modify their habits behind the wheel by:
- Double-checking their mirrors;
- Expecting to see motorcycles on the roads;
- Installing and using blind-spot mirrors; and
- Eliminating easily overlooked driving distractions.
How Motorcyclists Can Lower Their Odds of a Crash
Although motorcycle riders do not cause most of their wrecks, they can reduce their risk by:
- Slowing down; and
- Not mixing alcohol with riding.
Many motorcycle crashes involve alcohol-impaired riders and speeding. Even when these factors do not cause or contribute to the accident, they will give the motorcyclist less chance to avoid colliding with a negligent driver. Alcohol slows reaction time, and speeding reduces the window of opportunity to take evasive action.
You could face serious legal penalties if you violate traffic safety laws while riding your motorcycle. Furthermore, if the other driver can show you were not riding your motorcycle safely, it could negatively impact your right to compensation.
The 2018 Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month Campaign
Motorcyclists face increased risks on the roadways. Despite new an innovative safety equipment, riders risk incurring serious injuries every time they travel.
This year, the authorities and organizations participating in the month-long campaign are trying to raise awareness of motorcycle safety issues on the part of both motorcyclists and other motorists. There are three campaign topics this year:
- Motorist Awareness of Motorcycles;
- Share the Road; and
- Stop Impaired Driving.
How Drivers Can Share the Road With Motorcyclists
Here are some safety tips on how to share the road with motorcyclists throughout the year.
Use Your Mirrors.
Drivers do not see a large portion of the zones around their cars or trucks due to blind spots, having improperly adjusted mirrors, or failing to use the side-view mirrors. Frequently checking your mirrors can ensure you see motorcyclists nearby.
Give Riders a Full Lane.
It might look as if both a car and a motorcycle can fit in a lane, but that is not the case. A motorcyclist needs access to the full lane so they have adequate room to maneuver.
Signal Your Turns.
Using turn signals warns the motorcyclist of your intentions. If you indicate which way you will be turning, the motorcycle is far less likely to get in the way.
Never Drink and Ride
Alcohol impairs the skill, balance, and coordination necessary to operate a motorcycle. Alcohol impairment can directly cause a crash, or it can make you unable to react in time to avoid a car or truck that violates your right-of-way.
How to Get Help If You Were in a Motorcycle Accident
At Max Meyers Law, we are proud to help motorcyclists injured in traffic crashes. If another driver caused your wreck, we might be able to recover compensation for your damages. We will work hard to build a strong case that establishes the other motorist’s liability before we approach their insurance company for a settlement.
Call our motorcycle accident help team at 425-399-7000 to set up your no-cost consultation about your case.
