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There is no argument against the joys of riding a motorcycle. There is nothing like it for truly experiencing the open road. But for all of its pleasures, motorcycle riding is also extremely dangerous. Thousands of people die each year in motorcycle crashes, and tens of thousands suffer injuries. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists have a 26 times greater chance per mile traveled of dying in a crash than is true of automobile passengers, and a 5 times greater chance of being injured. These injuries can range from cuts and scrapes to devastating, life-changing impacts including traumatic brain injury and total paralysis. At Wallace Law, we are committed to helping those who have been the victims of negligence in motorcycle injuries, and to promoting safety for motorcycle enthusiasts. Here are some precautions that every motorcyclist should take to prevent injury.
According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, there are certain rules and common sense actions that all motorcyclists should take to prevent injury, but the most important thing is to remember that in most motorcycle accidents the drivers of automobiles and trucks indicate that they were unaware of the motorcyclist’s presence. That means that motorcycle readers need to do more to make themselves visible. This includes making sure that headlights are working, using reflective strips on the motorcycle and on their clothing, and not hesitating to use their horn. Perhaps most important of all, be aware of drivers’ blind spots and avoid them as much as possible.
Wearing protective clothing is essential. Helmets may restrict your sense of freedom, but they also save lives and protect your brain. Eye protection, long sleeves and long pants, over-the-ankle boots and gloves that are thick and padded will make a very big difference if an accident occurs, as they will be the only thing between you and the pavement.
All drivers are taught the importance of defensive driving, but this is even more important for motorcycle drivers and their riders, as they are far more vulnerable than those riding in vehicles. This means that a motorcycle driver needs to be constantly on the lookout for road conditions, to be aware of the actions of others with whom they share the road, and to be sure to use turn signals. Avoid riding between lanes or weaving between vehicles, as these actions make you unpredictable to drivers, and can even inspire road rage, which is an increasing problem on America’s highways.
Despite being responsible drivers, many motorcyclists suffer serious injury as a result of the negligence of drivers of trucks and passenger cars. If you have been in a motorcycle accident caused by another driver’s recklessness or inattentiveness, the attorneys at Wallace Law are here to help you get the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, damage to your bike, lost wages, and more. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.