MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

A much anticipated time of the year, the spring brings sunshine, blooming flowers, and idyllic weather. It also means people going outside— and more motorcycles on the road.

Each May, numerous organizations including the National Safety Council (NSC) and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recognize Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and urge everyone on the road to take precautions to improve rider safety.

FIRST, SOME STATISTICS

Motorcycle crashes are inherently more dangerous than normal car accidents, mostly due to the fact that riders lack a protective outer layer that drivers and passengers have. Even a seemingly “minor” motorcycle collision can lead to catastrophic and devastating results for the rider.

Here are some relevant motorcycle accident statistics:

• In 2017, 5,172 motorcycle riders and passengers died in crashes
• Motorcycles make up 3% of all registered vehicles and 14% of all on-road fatalities
• Motorcycle riders are 27 times more likely than those in passenger vehicles to sustain fatal injuries in a crash

HOW TO PREVENT MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS

When it comes to keeping our roads safe, everyone can do their part.

FOR RIDERS

• Always drive on the defensive
• Never rely on other vehicles to move out of your way
• Avoid drivers’ blind spots
• Use turn signals at all times
• Wear protective gear to minimize injuries in the event of an accident

FOR DRIVERS

• Check blind spots before changing lanes
• Obey the speed limit
• Keep volume down inside your vehicle
• Keep extra distance around riders
• Never drive after drinking
• Eliminate distractions
• Turn your phone on silent and put it away

INJURED IN A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT?

Sadly, even the most responsible riders can be injured by negligent drivers or other external factors. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Huffman & Huffman for legal representation.

Our firm is dedicated to holding responsible parties accountable for their actions so you don’t have to front the bill for injuries that you didn’t even cause. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the cause of your accident and fight for the compensation you need to pay for:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Emotional damages
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Diminished quality of life

We are here to help put your life back on track. Contact Huffman & Huffman at (757) 599-6050 to schedule your free case review.