Motorcycle Crash Avoidance

Stephanie Day

Attorney
(866) 735-1102 Ext 681

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            Spring is here, and with the increase in temperatures comes an increase in motorcycles on the roadways.  There are over 4 million motorcycles registered in the U.S.  Unfortunately, motorcycle crash fatalities amount to 5% of all highway deaths each year, yet motorcycles represent just 2% of the registered vehicles on the roadways in the U.S.  An obvious reason for motorcyclists to be fatally injured in crashes is due to the zero bodily protection a motorcycle provides in a crash situation.  80% of reported motorcycle crashes result in injury or death, compared to automobile crash injuries and death at a rate of 20%. 

            To prepare for crash avoidance, a new motorcycle operator should always attend a motorcycle rider training course to be educated on how to safely operate a bike and purchase the proper clothing for riding.  A motorcycle operator must be far more careful and aware of his/her surroundings than an automobile operator.  It takes much more skill and coordination to operate a bike than a car. 

Driving defensively is key.  For instance, a biker must pay special attention at intersections for vehicles that may unexpectedly pull out into the motorcycle’s path, as well as watch road surfaces and traffic ahead to anticipate problems.  Use these tips to keep safe in the future.