Motorcycles are fun, fast, and they probably make the rider feel like they’re in a Fast and Furious movie. I have heard my fair share of people saying they want to buy a motorcycle; however, the majority don’t keep in mind that motorcycles are less stable and visible than cars or trucks. In addition, motorcycle crashes can end up costing billions of dollars per year after adding up emergency services, property damage, all medical bills, and lost wages amongst other things.
Are motorcycle crash deaths preventable?
Motorcycle crashes themselves are not always preventable, however, there are certain things that can be done in order to be safer on the road and to try and prevent death.
Although very simple, the biggest thing one can do is wear a helmet – this simple action can not only save lives, but also money. There is currently a universal helmet law in place, but it is not mandatory for all states. In Florida and Kentucky, for example, it is required for all riders under the age of 21 to wear a helmet; those who are older than 21 don’t have to if they can prove that they are covered by a medical insurance.
Wearing helmets can be irritating and we may think that it is a waste of time or makes us look weird, however, statistics show that:
- In 2015, about 1,772 lives were saved
- The risk of death reduces by 32%
- The risk of head injury reduces by 69%
What are some things that I can do to be safe?
Although it’s a good start, being safe on a motorcycle takes more than just a helmet. Safe motorcycling takes good judgement, balance, and coordination.
- Make sure you have the proper license. Driving a car is different from driving a motorcycle – they require different knowledge and skills.
- Practice before getting on the road. If you are new to driving motorcycles or if you just bought a new one, make sure to practice and get used to it before getting on the bigger roads.
- Make sure you check your motorcycle before riding. Simply checking the tire pressure, indicators, and breaks can make a huge difference.
- Always Be Alcohol And Drug Free
- Wear the proper attire. It is recommended that you wear leather or heavy denim, protective gear, footwear that covers your ankles, and gloves.
- Always be aware of your surroundings.
If you are carrying a passenger there are a few things that they should know and that you need to make sure they do before driving off, including but not limiting to:
- Getting on the motorcycle after the engine starts
- Sitting as forward as possible
- Keeping both feet on the foot rests and away from the muffler at all times
- Holding firmly throughout the ride
In recent news
Unfortunately, in the last few days there have been two motorcyclists killed – one on Saturday (3/24) and the other on Monday (3/26). The first motorcyclist was driving in Tampa, collided with the back of a pickup truck, was thrown off the motorcycle and landed on the road where he was struck by two other cars. The second motorcyclist was driving in St. Petersburg and was struck by a Chevrolet pickup truck, it is reported that he was not wearing a helmet. In both cases, the motorcycle drivers died at the scene.
Contact Brooks Law Group
If you or a loved one was involved in a motorcycle accident give us a call today at 1-800-LAW-3030. Attorneys at Brooks Law Group work on a contingent basis, meaning that they don’t get paid until you receive compensation.
