Motorcycle Accidents

Approximately 3,000 motorcyclists are killed, and more than 60,000 are injured in traffic crashes each year. Many of these injuries and deaths could be prevented if motorcycle riders and their passengers wore helmets. In 2003, more than 3,600 motorcyclists were killed, and another 67,000 were injured in traffic crashes in the United States. More than 7,000 of those injured were riders between ages 15 and 20, and 36 percent of those who died were between ages 16 and 29. Ninety percent of the people who died were male; nearly all of them were operating the bike. Among females who died, 72 percent were passengers.

Per mile driven, motorcyclists are about 21 times more likely than persons in a car to die in a motor vehicle crash, and they're about 4 times more likely to be injured. While motorcycles make up less than 2 percent of all registered vehicles in the U.S., motorcyclists account for 8 percent of total traffic deaths. In 2003, 39 percent of all motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes were speeding, approximately twice the rate for drivers of passenger cars or light trucks. The percentage of alcohol involvement was more than 37 percent higher for motorcyclists than for drivers of passenger vehicles.

Wearing a helmet lowers a motorcycle rider's risk of fatal injury by 29 percent and reduces the risk of traumatic brain injury by 67 percent. Despite the documented effectiveness of helmets, many motorcyclists choose not to wear them, especially when state laws don't require helmet use. Surveys show that in states without universal helmet laws, only 34 to 54 percent of motorcycle riders wear helmets. But in states where helmet use is mandatory for all riders, 98 percent of motorcyclists use this safety gear. Currently, less than half of the states require helmet use by riders of all ages.

In California, Motorcyclists are subject to the same speed restrictions as other vehicles. All motorcyclists are required to drive at a speed that is reasonable and prudent. Cal Veh Code § 22350. Generally, any speed in excess of the following speeds is evidence of unreasonable driving:

• 15 mph approaching a school crossing.
• 25 mph in a business or residential district.
• 65 mph in other locations.

In most other locations the Department of Transportation department may determine and declare a prima facie speed limit of 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30 or 25 miles per hour, whichever is found most appropriate. Cal Veh Code § 22350 - 22354.

Some quick tips for preventing motorcycle accidents include:

• Never drink alcohol before operating a motorcycle.
• Follow all the rules of the road. Don't speed - 40 percent of motorcyclists who died in crashes were speeding.
• Watch for hazards on the road, such as large cracks, holes, and bumps. Keep an eye out for vehicles coming from driveways and side streets
• Make sure your headlight is on every time you ride.
• Don't let anyone ride with you until you are skilled at riding in all kinds of conditions.

In all motor vehicle accident cases it is essential that measures be taken promptly to preserve evidence, investigate the accident in question, and to enable physicians or other expert witnesses to thoroughly evaluate any injuries. If you or a loved one is a victim of an automobile accident, call Blackman Legal Group now at 1-800-444-5602 or CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT A SIMPLE CASE FORM. The initial consultation is free of charge, and if we agree to accept your case, we will work on a contingent fee basis, which means we get paid for our services only if there is a monetary award or recovery of funds. Don't delay! You may have a valid claim and be entitled to compensation for your injuries, but a lawsuit must be filed before the statute of limitations expires.