May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and in May we take time to reflect and celebrate the act of cars/trucks safely sharing the roadways with motorcyclists.
Did you know that car drivers are the leading cause of accidents that result in the death of motorcyclists?
It has been proven that most motorcycle accidents and deaths happen between the months of May-September, it could be known as “motorcycle season” because of the nice weather more motorcyclists are out on the roads. 62 percent of 2014 motorcycle deaths nationwide happened between the months of May and September.
In honor of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month we’re going to discuss some ways to stay safe while riding on your motorcycle, and sharing the road with cars/trucks.
- Many accidents between cars/trucks happen on the highway, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. We would recommend trying to avoid the highways and taking a less dangerous route. If you must use the highway try and use a HOV lane (if available in your state). According to the US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, “The rationale behind allowing motorcycles to use HOV lanes is that it is safer to keep two-wheeled vehicles moving than to have them travel in start-and-stop traffic conditions. States can choose to override this provision of federal law, if they determine that safety is at risk.”
- There are many states, currently 31, that do not have helmet laws for motorcycle drivers. It is in your best interest to wear a helmet. It is such an easy thing to do that can potentially save your life. It has been shown that helmets are 67 percent effective in preventing a brain injury after a fall or crash.
- Because motorcycles are small, if you are a car driver, please double-check your blind spots when switching lanes or turning.
- Always check your riding equipment before riding, such as looking at your helmet to make sure there are no cracks/dents.
- Check your front and rear breaks for a squealing noise; this can be an indicator of trouble. So before your ride, check those breaks and make sure they are in tip top shape for the road.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Wauwatosa, WI and need legal representation please give our law firm a call today. We offer free consultations and will be more than happy to review your case.