Motorcycle Accident Prevention

If you own a motorcycle, you already know that your mode of transportation leaves you open to more serious accidents than driving a car does. In 2006, the deaths from motorcycle accidents were 35 times greater than from car accidents. Other drivers and road hazards are often to blame for these collisions. Your best protection while riding a motorcycle is to follow the rules of the road while driving defensively. 

Front End Accidents

Most motorcycle deaths are caused when the motorcycle collides with another vehicle. Also, when a motorcycle and another vehicle are in an accident, the driver of  the car or truck is to blame two-thirds of the time. Most often, the car's driver will turn left into your path, causing a collision. Sometimes the driver is distracted or only looking for cars and trucks. Since these drivers cannot be trusted to see you, you have to anticipate their moves. In fact, you need to treat every car that is waiting to turn left in front of you as a possible threat. Slow down and prepare to get out of the way.

Road Hazards

Twenty-five percent of motorcycle accidents are due to road conditions or items in the road. Of course, you are much more vulnerable to an animal in the middle of the road or a scattering of gravel than someone in a car or truck. A simple pothole is enough to flip your bike and cause you extensive injuries. To stay safe, you have to expect that something dangerous is up ahead and drive accordingly. This means that you must not go over the posted speed limits, something you may find difficult to do. Being constantly on alert and safety-oriented may not seem like much fun, but it is necessary when you operate a motorcycle.

Legalities 

Sometimes driving defensively is not enough. If you are injured in a motorcycle accident that is not your fault, you may need help from a reputable attorney. Some drivers believe that motorcyclists are usually the ones to blame in an accident, so you may need help fighting for the compensation you deserve. 

As a motorcyclist, you have to exercise more caution than other drivers on the road. That situation is not fair, but until car and truck drivers become more aware of motorcycles, you will have to carry more of the safety burden. If you are struck by another vehicle, take steps to protect yourself by contacting a lawyer, such as Speers Reuland & Cibulskis, P.C.