Unlike car accidents, which often result in serious injuries but rarely in death, motorcycle crashes tend to be much more fatal. This has been attributed to a variety of factors, including the fact that motorcycles provide little protection for riders in the event of a collision and that riders are more likely to be thrown from their bikes during an accident. So how fatal are motorcycle accidents in this state? NHTSA statistics rank California top 15 out of all 50 states in motorcycle accident fatalities. While the exact numbers vary each year, it’s safe to say that they are significantly more fatal than car accidents. This means that motorcycle riders need to be extra careful on the road and take all necessary precautions to avoid an accident. Wearing a helmet, obeying traffic laws, and being aware of your surroundings are all important safety measures that can help keep you safe on the road.
Why Are Motorcycle Accidents So Dangerous?
Motorcycles offer very little protection to riders in the event of a collision, and even a minor accident may result in severe injuries. Moreover, motorcycles are much smaller than other vehicles on the road, making them much harder to see. This increases the risk of being involved in an accident, as other drivers may not see the rider until it is too late. Riders are generally more vulnerable to the elements than people in cars, and slick roads or low visibility can make it difficult to control a motorcycle. Lastly, motorcyclists typically travel at higher speeds than other drivers on the road. This means that they have less time to react to hazards and are more likely to get into serious accidents as a result.
Common Motorcycle Fatality Causes
Head-on collisions often occur when a car turns into the path of another oncoming vehicle. Drivers may not see the motorcycle, or they may misjudge its speed and curvature barreling down the road. Either way, head-on collisions can be deadly for motorcyclists. Another common cause of death is being thrown off a motorcycle. This can happen in a variety of situations, but is often the result of losing control on a curve or hitting a pothole or other obstacle in the road. When motorcyclists are thrown from their bikes, they can suffer serious injuries or even be killed if they land in traffic or hit something hard. Wearing a helmet and other safety gear can help to reduce the risk of being thrown from a motorcycle. Still, it is not always enough to prevent fatalities.
When to Seek Legal Help
A fatal motorcycle accident is always as unfortunate as it is preventable. If you were involved or lost someone in a motorcycle accident, it’s critical you seek legal consultation. This is aimed at protecting your rights, and so that you can get the best possible compensation. Filing a claim from insurers can be a complex and frustrating task, especially if you’re still grieving the loss of a loved one. A lawyer can help you deal with the insurance company, and in the case where the cause of the accident would have been avoided had the other driver exercised more caution, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. These are all complicated cases that require the skill of an experienced attorney.
Conclusion
Motorcycle accidents are more fatal than car accidents, and riders need to take extra precautions to stay safe on the road. Wearing a helmet, obeying traffic laws, and being aware of your surroundings are all important safety measures that can help keep you safe. If you’re a victim, seeking legal help is important to protect your rights and get the best possible outcome.
