May is motorcycle safety awareness month
May 8, 2015
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. This season’s more temperate climate coincides with the time of year when motorcyclists frequent the country’s roadways. As pleasurable as open-air riding is, the risks of riding become much greater in summer months when construction season is in full swing, millions of people are traveling, and more motorcycles are on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), fatal motorcycle accidents were responsible for 15 percent of total motor vehicle fatalities in 2013. That number has steadily increased from year to year, over the last 16 years.
In fact, motorcyclists are approximately 39 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of other vehicles. The majority of accidents involving a collision with a motorcycle and another vehicle occur in intersections or during lane changes.
Car Driver Tips:
- Be respectful of motorcyclists and always share the road. Motorcycle riders are motorists too, and they have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of other vehicles.
- Do not try to share a lane with a motorcyclist. Just because a motorcycle is smaller in size does not mean a motorcyclist needs less room.
- Do not be a distracted driver. Distracted driving is the number one cause of motor vehicle accidents in the United States.
- Remember that it is easy to misjudge the proximity of a motorcycle because of its smaller size.
- Know where your blind spots are and always double-check for motorcyclists at intersections and prior to making a lane change.
- Do not tailgate. Motorcycles can come to a sudden stop much more quickly than other motor vehicles.
Motorcycle Rider Tips:
- Always obey traffic laws, signs, and signals.
- Make sure you are appropriately licensed and insured at all times.
- Always wear a helmet. According to NHTSA, more than 1900 lives were saved in 2013 because of the use of a DOT-compliant helmet.
- Wear brightly colored clothing and reflective gear, especially at night.
- Never ride while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Do not ride during inclement weather conditions.
- Always use turn signals. Simultaneously using hand-signals is also helpful at drawing more attention to your intended move.
- Get regular and routine maintenance on your motorcycle.
- If you are a new rider, or would like a refresher course, motorcycle safety courses are available year round.
Jodat Law Group – Motorcycle Attorneys
If you or someone one you know has been involved in a motorcycle or car/motorcycle accident, Jodat Law Group can help. Our law firm understands the bias that motorcycle riders often face when involved in an accident. We have extensive experience in protecting the rights of motorcycle riders, and we can help you. Since 1994, Jodat Law Group has been representing clients in motorcycle accident cases throughout Florida. Call today for a free consultation.