Facts Relating to Motorcycle Accidents
With the continuous rising of the price of gasoline, motorcycle sales have increased tremendously. Unfortunately, the motorcycle accident fatality rate has also increased. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), 95% of transportation-related deaths are caused by motor vehicles. Approximately 80 percent of all reported motorcycle accidents are fatal. In comparison, the automobile fatality rate is only 20 percent. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than a car or a truck. Even more important, a motorcycle is not equipped with any safety features. Automobiles offer much more protection. The weight of the vehicle alone provides more assurance in the event of an accident. Furthermore, a car has air bags to lessen the impact and windshield wipers to increase visibility. Last but not least, an automobile has four wheels which is the element to better stability. Many people are attracted to motorcycles because a motorcycle is a popular recreational vehicle, it cost less to maintain, and it uses considerably less fuel than a car.
The Dangerous Undertaking of Riding a Motorcycle
A motorcyclist and his or her passenger face more danger than people traveling in a car. The Department of Transportation (DOT) outlines the causes of motorcycle accidents and explains the importance of purchasing a motorcycle based upon its functionality. As an operator of a motor vehicle, it is imperative to make safety your number one priority. Knowing that a motorcycle has no real safety devices should be enough motivation to cause a motorcyclist to wear protective eye gear, proper clothing, gloves, shoes and the appropriate safety helmet. Not every state require motorcyclist to wear helmets. The DOT recommends that motorcyclists attend a motorcycle training course to learn how to skillfully operate a motorcycle. The risks of accidents can be greatly minimized if drivers would truly identify with the defensive rules of driving on roads and highways.
Why Drivers Claim Not to See Oncoming Motorcycles While Turning Left
The majority of accidents between cars and motorcycles happen at intersections. Amazing but true, many vehicle drivers fail to see motorcycles while attempting to turn left at intersections. Approaching an intersection is not a matter to be taken lightly. There are several reasons why accidents like this happen. First of all, visibility should be the number one concern. It is very important to position your vehicle where it can clearly be seen.
As mentioned earlier, motorcycles are smaller. Drivers of vehicles have a tendency not to focus on motorcycles as intense as they focus on cars and other larger vehicles. Although a motorcycle is smaller, when approaching an intersection, drivers of vehicles should always make sure they are in a position where they can be seen. Sometimes motorcyclist will change lanes because of pot holes in the road, railroad tracks, large rocks or other obstructions. Another reason car drivers fail to see oncoming motorcyclist is; it is difficult to estimate the speed and the distance of a motorcycle. The DOT in Arizona also reports that the most common traffic violation is speeding. Fatigue, failure to use proper safety protection; failure to use defensive driving precautions, failure to follow the speed limits, and lack of skills, are the perfect components of an accident waiting to happen.
Getting Compensation for Damages
All drivers desire to be compensated for loss of wages, physical and mental damages, and medical bills. Personal injury lawyers can assist you in choosing the best options. Personal injury lawyers will track down all parties involved. An experienced lawyer will supply you with accurate, comprehensive, statistical information and facts regarding car versus motorcycle accidents. Laws and statutes can vary from state to state. Whether you're a motorcyclist or a driver of a vehicle, it's important to a hire a very proficient personal injury lawyer. Surfing on-line will prove to be a very resourceful alternative.
An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand all of your rights as a motorcyclist. Although every case is different, in most cases, you are entitled to be compensated for property damages, future medical expenses, lost wages, and loss of relationship with your spouse and various other expenses. The most important thing to remember in event of an accident is, no matter how small the injury, seek medical attention. If at all possible take pictures and write down names of any witnesses. Your ability to prove how you incurred all these expenses is a component of the determining factors in receiving compensation in a timely manner. Your lawyer takes care of you.