Things Drivers Should Know About Motorcycles on the Road

There are certain prejudices against motorcyclists in society whenever an accident occurs. There are more cars, buses and trucks than motorcycles on the roads today, and the number is increasing. There are rider training programs, operator licensing programs and public information campaigns. Still, people need to know more about motorcycle drivers and their safety. People drive under a lot of stress these days. Then there are those who drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, increasing potential risk to all on the road.

Things car/truck drivers should know about motorcyclists:

There were around 5,154 motorcycle deaths in 2007, the highest since 1975. The motorcycle fatalities represent 13% of all deaths in the US. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation has listed some guidelines which other drivers should be aware of:

 

• Car/Truck owners should look for motorcycles at intersections – the point where most accidents happen.
• Motorcycles might appear farther than their original distance from the car/truck – this is because it is smaller in size.
• Be careful while changing lanes or when you are at an intersection. It is also very difficult to track the speed of a motorcycle, mainly because of its size.
•  Allow more distance behind a motorcycles at intersections.
• A thumb-rule – when a motorcycle is in motion, think of it as a moving person.
• Better late than never’ is a proverb that works well for all drivers in the world. Drive safe.
• Use seat belts.
•  Always use signals while turning.
• Use your mirrors and be vigilant to check around the blind spots and intersections while you are changing lanes.
• Do not tailgate and/or pass closely – Give space to motorcycle drivers.

Distractions drivers often face:

There are can be many reasons for accidents, such as:

• Children
• Cellular phones – Hand held
• Satellite navigation system
• Audio systems
• Eating/drinking while driving

Motorcycle drivers are more vulnerable and they need space. The fact remains that most motorcycle accidents happen because of negligence, unsafe roads and debris. If someone close to you has been injured while driving a motorcycle, immediately rush him/her to a doctor. Please collect important information, such as the number plate and time of the accident. You deserve legal representation if there is a case of negligence and careless driving. Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to claim compensation.

Financial Compensation and Personal Injury Claims in Motorcycle Accidents

Nearly one out of every five motorcycle crashes result in neck or head injuries. In just a few short seconds it is enough for a skilled motorcyclist to suffer a crash due to a negligent driver. Year after year, thousands of victims suffer the loss of a loved one due to the negligence of others.

Reasons

If you take a look at any newspapers that report motorcycle accidents or injuries, you are likely to see that following:

• Drunk or aggressive driving
• Speeding or risky turns
• Negligence of the other auto/vehicle driver
• Traffic jam or congestion
• Violation of traffic laws
• Motorcycle signaling error
• Driver error

What’s disturbing is to note that most motorcycle accidents occur on short trips, but bike riders who wear helmets are three times more likely to emerge as survivors despite head or neck injuries. Otherwise, the damage to the head and neck can be quite extensive.

Wearing a helmet has its advantages because helmets save lives. However, a study involving 900 motorcycle accidents revealed that 40 percent of the riders wore helmets but that didn’t safeguard them from neck or head injuries. So, it may happen that wearing a helmet is a recommended safety measure but definitely not a full- proof one.

Financial Compensation

Motorcycle injuries are expensive and difficult to treat, which is why you require the best motorcycle injury lawyers. They are the experts you need to consult when confronted with motorcycle accidents.

Factors to consider include:

• Some states follow the no-fault insurance laws so as to prevent frivolous suits
• Motorcyclists, who obey the traffic laws, wear bright clothing, avoid speeding and keep on their headlights have a better chance of success in case of a personal injury claim.
• The only way to establish your case is to have the best known personal injury lawyer with remarkable success and expertise in this field to represent you.

Keeping aside the fact that you want to win your case, a lawyer with expertise in motorcycle accidents will educate you about your legal rights better than anybody else.