Holiday traffic often leads to an uptick in motor vehicle accidents. In the summer months, motorcyclists can be especially vulnerable as more riders take to the road.
A number of accidents involving motorcycles occurred recently in California. One particularly devastating crash happened just south of the Cosumnes River near the Amador and El Dorado county line: a 49-year-old California man lost control of his Harley while navigating a curve and slid into an oncoming truck. The California Highway Patrol reported that the motorcyclist died at the scene of the accident.
Tragic accidents like this should prompt anyone hitting the road on a motorcycle to keep in mind a few key safety considerations.
Safety Tips
As most riders are well aware, wearing protective gear can drastically reduce the odds of sustaining a serious injury in a motorcycle accident. A DOT-approved helmet is the mainstay of protective clothing, but thick jackets and pants, sturdy boots, and proper eyewear are also important.
The right clothing not only shields a rider's body, it can also help avoid an accident altogether. Many motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers who fail to notice motorcyclists. By wearing bright clothing, you make yourself more visible (applying reflective decals to your motorcycle is another way to stand out).
Remembering that motorcycles are harder for other drivers to see should also affect your riding strategy. Allow plenty of room between yourself and other vehicles, and look as far ahead as possible when making a turn. Never ride in another vehicle's blind spot.
The most common situation in which another vehicle collides with a motorcycle is when a car turns left into the path of an oncoming motorcycle at an intersection. Be especially vigilant for distracted drivers turning left, and if you do have to stop quickly, evenly apply progressively firmer pressure to both brakes.
Injuries
Sometimes even the most careful riders are powerless to prevent a motorcycle accident. If you have been injured by another driver, contact a personal injury attorney. Your attorney can help you recover monetary damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Riding carefully is important for every motorcyclist, but rider safety is only half the equation: holding irresponsible drivers accountable can help raise awareness and ensure that other motorists keep an eye out for motorcycles.
