Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

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Tips for Motorcycle Riders

 

According to the Department of Motor Vehicles, there were 195 fatalities reported in 2006 as a result of motorcycle accidents in New York. Out of those 195 deaths, 181 were of the operator of the motorcycle. There were 4,951 people injured in motorcycle accidents in the state in that year, with 4,338 of those being the driver of the motorcycle. It is estimated that motorcycle operators are 26 percent more likely to die and 5 percent more likely to be injured in a crash than someone riding in a passenger car. When it comes to gender, the 2006 stats report that substantially more men ride motorcycles than women, which in turn gives them a much higher injury and death rate. The DMV reports that in New York, there were 4,318 men injured and 205 men killed, while only 253 women were injured and 5 killed as a result of motorcycle accidents in 2006.

 

People that ride motorcycles face a much greater risk of injury or death when on the road than other drivers because they have a very obvious lack of protection if involved in an accident. Safety precautions found in automobiles such as seatbelts and air bags are clearly not available on motorcycles, leaving the operator unprotected and vulnerable. Another risk involved in riding a motorcycle is the difficulty other drivers have in seeing them coming, making it more possible for an accident to occur. Due to their compact size and fast speeds, motorcycles often seem to appear out of nowhere in a driver’s rear view mirror, and in some cases, it is simply too late to avoid an accident.

 

There are many important factors that a person should keep in mind when choosing to use a motorcycle for transportation, including the increased dangers of hazardous road conditions and the additional skills needed to be able to keep the bike stabilized and under control. Many motorcyclists feel that because they are able to squeeze through narrow spaces on the roads, that they should do so to avoid traffic or get where they are going faster. This type of reckless driving results in the rising number of motorcycle fatalities reported each year.

 

Here are a few tips from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation to help motorcycle operators and other drivers stay safe on the roads:

 

Be visible:
• Remember that motorists often have trouble seeing motorcycles and reacting in time.
• Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night.
• Use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle.
• Be aware of the blind spots cars and trucks have
• Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping.
• If a motorist doesn’t see you, don’t be afraid to use your horn.

Dress for safety:
• Wear a quality helmet and eye protection.
• Wear bright clothing and a light-colored helmet.
• Wear leather or other thick, protective clothing.
• Choose long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots and gloves.
• Remember - the only thing between you and the road is your protective gear.

Apply effective mental strategies:
• Constantly search the road for changing conditions.
• Give yourself space and tie to respond to other motorists’ actions.
• Give other motorists time and space to respond to you.
• Use lane positioning to be seen; ride in the part of a lane where you are most visible.
• Watch for turning vehicles.
• Signal your next move in advance.
• Avoid weaving between lanes
• Don’t ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• Know and follow the rules of the road, and stick to the speed limit.

Know your bike and how to use it:
• Get formal training and take refresher courses.
• Practice. Develop your riding techniques before going into heavy traffic. Know how to handle your bike in conditions such as wet or sandy roads, high winds, and uneven surfaces.

Remember: Give yourself space. People driving cars often just don’t see motorcycles. Even when drivers do see you, chances are they’ve never been on a motorcycle and can’t properly judge your speed.

 

If someone else’s carelessness has caused you injury or loss, don’t delay in calling us or emailing to schedule a free initial consultation. We can help. At Silberstein, Awad and Miklos, P.C., we are dedicated to fighting for accident victims and will invest whatever time and energy it takes to obtain a fair settlement for you. We are proud to serve throughout New York, including the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and Long Island.

 

 

Silberstein, Awad & Miklos, P.C.
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