When placing your family in the car to head for a drive, you're always placing your trust in your driving abilities and those around you. You want to ensure that you're taking the best steps to keep your family protected and safe, which also means being aware of the types of vehicles that may surround you.
One of the most important things to keep in mind while driving is that motorcycles and vehicles must share the road, and, because of this, it's a good thing to know some safety tips about motorcycles.
Studies have shown that a person on a motorcycle is 25% more likely to get in a fatal accident than those in a car, truck, or SUV. Motorcycles lack safety restraints, airbags, and outer protection, creating more opportunities for a motorcycle accident to occur.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident because of someone else's negligence, please contact the attorneys at Kalfus & Nachman today. If the accident was fatal, our wrongful death attorneys can assist you. Our experienced accident attorneys serve clients in all of Virginia. Call us at (800) 361-0430.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycles represent 2% of the registered vehicles in the U.S., however motorcycle accidents account for 5% of all accidents. Motorcycle accidents typically occur because the driver of a vehicle isn't even aware of the motorcycle's presence.
Some of the causes of motorcycle crashes include the following:
- Lack of visibility to other drivers
- Motorcycle is in driver's blind spot
- Driving in bad weather
- Lack of protective gear and clothing
- Driving under the influence of alcohol
- Driving without being licensed to drive a motorcycle
- Making left-hand turns at intersections
Motorcycle Safety Tips
It is important for drivers of vehicles and riders of motorcycles to be prepared and aware of the safety precautions for operating on the road. For drivers of a vehicle, be aware of your surroundings, always double-check your blind spot, and give extra following distance to a motorcycle.
Some safety tips for a motorcyclist include:
- Wear protective clothing including boots, gloves, eye protection, jackets, and pants
- Wear a Department of Transportation certified helmet
- Take the classes to become licensed to ride a motorcycle
- Choose a motorcycle that fits you properly so you're comfortable and safe
- Follow all traffic laws and regulations
- Use appropriate signals
- Avoid riding in-between two lanes of traffic
- Be aware of the vehicles around you and remember they may not see you even though you can see them
If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident, our Virginia accident lawyers can assist you if you're interested in filing a lawsuit. We have over 30 years of experience and can help determine what kind of case you have. Then, we will guide you through the entire process.
Please contact Kalfus & Nachman today or call (800) 361-0430. We serve clients in Norfolk, Newport News, Roanoke, and all of Virginia.
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