There is no greater freedom on the road than riding a motorcycle. While riding can be a great way to enjoy the open road, it comes with its own set of risks.
Unlike drivers of car and trucks, motorcyclists don't have the protection of seatbelts and airbags, making them more susceptible to serious and life-threatening injuries.
Motorcyclists often sustain these injuries in crashes:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Spinal injuries
- Crushed limbs
- Road rash - a severe abrasion caused by contact with the road surface
- Soft tissue injuries
- Paralysis
- Death
In order to prevent serious and fatal injuries, the California attorneys at Clancy & Diaz, LLP offer these important tips.
Always wear protective gear
Helmets are effective at preventing severe head injuries and deaths. Even if you sustain a traumatic brain injury (such as a concussion) while wearing a helmet, the damage could be much worse without one.
Like in many other states, all motorcyclists are required to wear helmets in California. According to the NHTSA, motorcycle helmets can reduce the chance of a fatal injury by 35 percent and a severe injury by 26 percent.
In addition to a properly fitted helmet, it's always a good idea to wear long pants, boots, a leather jacket, protective eye wear and gloves to prevent severe injuries, such as road rash.
Keep your bike in good condition
A crash caused by a mechanical defect can happen suddenly and unexpectedly. All it takes is for the brakes or steering to fail or for a tire to blow out. That's why it's important to always check the brakes, wheels, tires, steering, horn, lights and exhaust before riding. Any mechanical defects should be fixed promptly.
It's also a good idea to install reflective devices on your bike to make you more visible to drivers at night.
If your motorcycle crash was caused by a defective part that you recently purchased, you may be able to sue the manufacturer or distributor. To learn more about your legal options, it's best to speak to an experienced California motorcycle accident attorney.
Ride defensively
You can never predict the actions of car drivers. Cellphone distractions, alcohol impairment, speeding, aggressive driving and drowsiness are common causes of serious and fatal crashes. In addition, drivers often don't pay attention to motorcyclists or respect their right to share the road.
It's best to keep a safe distance from other drivers, especially if you notice someone behaving erratically or appearing distracted. Be aware of drivers making left turns when approaching intersections. Left turns are one of the leading causes of motorcycle crashes.
You should also be aware of common hazards in the road, such as potholes, debris, uneven surfaces and downed tree branches. Large puddles, sand or gravel can cause motorcyclists to lose control and wipe out.
Contact an attorney if you were hurt in a crash
If you were hurt in a crash because of a driver's negligence or reckless behavior, we can help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Our attorneys fight on behalf of injured motorcyclists by taking on the insurance companies and advocating for fair and complete compensation. We can help you recover damages relating to medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.
To learn more, contact our Walnut Creek law office online. We offer free and confidential case evaluations.