Motorcycle riding comes with risks, and most bikers know that. Motorcycle accidents are sometimes the result of rider error and other times the result of someone else’s negligence.
According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, in 2010 there were a total of 5,570 motorcycle crashes. Of those, 4,757 caused personal injury and 180 resulted in death. The day of the week that saw the greatest number of crashes was Saturday (1,133), and the age groups that were most affected were men between the ages of 25 and 29 (903) and women between the ages of 45 and 49 (172).
While these stats can be helpful in understanding some of the risk factors, they can’t prevent an accident from occurring. However, the following motorcycle safety tips may prove helpful in becoming a safer rider.
Tips to Stay Safe on a Motorcycle
Always remember that some drivers may struggle to see your bike. Drive defensively and with caution. It may be tempting to take advantage of the size of your bike by doing things such as maneuvering in and out of traffic or riding in a lane not meant for travel, but aside from being illegal, it could increase your chance of a crash.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s ‘Share the Road Safely’ website reminds motorcyclists to avoid a trucker’s blind spot, or “No-Zone.” But bikers – and other drivers – should be aware of all vehicles’ blind spots and avoid them as much as possible.
And, of course, wear a helmet! The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,550 motorcyclists in 2010. The agency notes that had all bikers been wearing a helmet during an accident, another 706 lives may have been saved, too.
If you were in a motorcycle accidents and experienced injuries due to another’s negligence, contact an attorney at Gacovino, Lake & Associates to review your case. Call us today at 1-800-246-HURT (4878).
