Three Things You May Not Have Known about Motorcycle Accidents in California
In Palmdale, and throughout the rest of the country, motorcycle riders gear up to hit the open road, adventure across the highways, and to simply commute to work. Motorcycle riding is a popular pastime for many Palmdale residents, and sometimes it is even a family affair. However, there is no question that motorcycle riding can be very dangerous, and motorcycle accidents can quickly turn fatal. In order to help Palmdale motorcycle riders and motorcycle enthusiasts better understand some of the dangers associated with motorcycle accidents, we put together this list of three things that you may not have known about motorcycle accidents.
#1: The Risk of Severe Injury or Death as a Result of a Motorcycle Accident is Higher than 50%
Motorcycle accidents can be particularly dangerous due to the simple fact that, most often, the motorcycle rider is not protected by anything other than what they are wearing and their helmet. Against the hard, cold steel or fiberglass shell of the body of a car, a motorcycle rider is basically defenseless in a collision. In fact, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, over 80% of all motorcycle accidents that are reported to law enforcement end in fatality or severe injury to the motorcyclist. Another reason that motorcycle accidents can be so deadly is how the motorcycle rider’s body travels during a motorcycle-involved car accident. According to the NHTSA, most often a motorcycle rider is ejected from their motorcycle on impact, which can lead to serious injury or death.
#2. Car and Truck Drivers, and Other Drivers on the Road, often do Not Always Pay Attention to Motorcycles
According to the NHTSA, around one-third of car accidents involving multiple vehicles and motorcycles are caused by other drivers going into the path of travel of the motorcycle rider. For this reason, the NHTSA advises that “more than other vehicle drivers, motorcyclists must remain visible at all times, and anticipate what might happen. For example, motorcyclists must anticipate that drivers making left turns may not see them and prepare to make defensive maneuvers.” In sum, drivers are not always aware of motorcycles, or they do not pay attention, and motorcycle riders must be very careful to remain visible and anticipate other motorists’ movements.
#3. Alcohol is a Contributing Factor to Motorcycle Accidents
According to the NHTSA, 43% of all fatal motorcycle accidents involve alcohol. It goes without saying that alcohol is extremely dangerous when combined with operating any vehicle, even smaller ones like motorcycles.
Legal Help for Injured Motorcyclists in Palmdale
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Palmdale due to the fault of another driver or motorist, it is important to learn about your legal rights and options under California civil laws. The experienced Palmdale motorcycle accident lawyers at the Trevino Law Firm offer a free and confidential consultation to learn about your potential case and to see if they can fight to get you compensation due under California laws. Contact the Trevino Law Firm today and speak to an experienced Palmdale motorcycle accident lawyer about your case for free.
Serving injury victims throughout the Antelope Valley, including Lancaster as well as smaller communities like Littlerock and Lake Los Angeles.
