Even though autumn is upon us, it is never too late to think about motorcycle safety. Yes, more motorcycle riders are on the roads in the summertime, but with California’s temperate climate, they can be seen at any time of the year. It is important for both motorcyclists and passenger/commercial vehicle operators to be aware of the inherent dangers of sharing the road and for each to take steps to avoid accidents whenever possible.
The year 2009 saw a marked decrease in the number of motorcyclist fatalities for the first time since 1997, but there were still nearly 5,000 deaths around the country and many thousands of injuries. Given the fact that motorcycle riders are nearly 40 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident than other motor vehicle occupants, and nearly 10 times more likely to be injured, safety must remain at the forefront.
Studies have shown that several key behaviors can dramatically increase the chances of avoiding injury in a single-vehicle or multi-vehicle crash while you are on your motorcycle. These include:
Of course, not every motorcycle-versus-car accident is the fault of the motorcyclist. It is equally important that the operators of other vehicles share the road and respect the rights of motorcycles. If you or a loved one has been injured in a single- or multi-vehicle motorcycle crash, seek medical attention immediately. If able to, you should request a police report, and get the names of any witnesses. It is also wise to take photos of the vehicle, injuries, and accident scene. As soon as possible after the accident, seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney in your area to learn more about your legal rights and options. Call the Law Offices of Howard Craig Kornberg in Los Angeles at 310-997-0904 for fast and accurate advice on how to win your case.