Drivers and Motorcyclists Urged to Safely Share the Roadways

Motorcycling is more than a mode of transportation: it is a lifestyle, a sport, and a passion. It does not matter if riders prefer sport bikes, enduros, choppers or classic cruisers; what matters is that they share a love affair with two-wheeled vehicles.

Motorcyclists have a passion for riding, for the wind, for the freedom of the road, for the dynamics of leaning a bike. The appeal of motorcycling creates a smile that is difficult to explain, and a feeling in the gut of pleasure. Whether it is the deep rumble as you travel down the road or the feeling of connecting a set of turns, or the pleasure of easily finding a place to park, motorcycling provides pleasure unavailable from driving a car. Unfortunately, for many who do not ride motorcycles, there is a bias against motorcyclists. Many drivers and insurance companies and jurors believe that bikers are automatically careless and reckless outlaws or risk takers. Beyond bias, many drivers just do not see motorcyclists. Without the bulk of a car surrounding them, motorcyclists can “disappear.”

Taking Precautions to Decrease Accidents

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation‘s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 100,000 motorcycles were involved in crashes in 2009 alone. In those crashes, 90,000 motorcyclists were injured and more than 4,000 people died.

To prevent accidents and to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation is working with the NHTSA and other organizations. The foundation urges drivers of all types of vehicles to take precautions when using roadways. Vehicle drivers are urged to reduce distractions, signal all intentions to turn, watch for motorcyclists and give them enough room. Motorcycle operators are encouraged to take proper safety classes and be licensed, wear full safety gear, drive sober and obey all traffic laws.

Protecting Legal Rights

With the number of cars, trucks and motorcycles on America’s roadways increasing every year, accidents are inevitable. The unfortunate fact is that motorcyclists and their passengers will suffer the worst in any collision. Without the safety equipment and the protection a car frame offers, motorcyclists will often face serious injuries.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident or have lost a loved one in a fatal motorcycle crash, contact an experienced California personal injury attorney. You may have the right to pursue financial compensation and to hold at-fault drivers accountable for your loss.