Motorcyclists are among the most at-risk individuals on the roads. If they’re hit, they have very few protections against the impact. While they may wear safety gear, like leather attire or helmets, those pieces of protection aren’t always enough to prevent serious injuries or fatal wounds.
Motorcyclists are vulnerable, which is why it’s so important for drivers to pay attention to the road and look out for them. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the total number of motorcyclists killed in 2018 was 4,985, which was 5% less than the year before. However, these riders are still overrepresented in crashes with fatalities, showing that they are at a higher risk of death.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has shown that motorcyclists and their passengers are 28 times more likely to die in motor vehicle crashes compared with passenger vehicle occupants. That being said, there are steps that both drivers of those vehicles and motorcycles can take to stay safer and avoid collisions.
How can you avoid a crash on your motorcycle?
For motorcyclists, avoiding crashes starts with good visibility. Make sure you stand out with brightly colored attire, reflective strips and good lighting. If you need to, make your motorcycle louder, so people can hear you coming. Riding in a group is also a good idea.
How can you avoid hitting a motorcyclist?
For drivers of other vehicles, watching out for motorcyclists is essential. Your vehicle is more dangerous to them than theirs is to you. Slow down, and always check intersections, blind spots and driveways/entryways/exits for motorcyclists. If you’re approaching a motorcyclist, leave enough space to stop safely. Be particularly careful during lane changes, since a motorcyclist may be in your vehicle’s blind spot.
The sad truth is that motorcycle crash injuries can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars and lead to significant and lasting disabilities for the riders involved. Even minor or moderate crashes could lead to expensive medical care and missed time from work for all involved.
After a crash, it’s worth discussing the case with an attorney. As a motorcyclist who has been injured, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim.