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There’s a lot to celebrate in the month of May, from Mother’s Day to graduations to Memorial Day, which marks the start of summer. With all of these seasonal activities going on, there is more traffic on the road. Not only is there more traffic on the road, but due to the warmer weather, it’s the perfect time for motorcyclists to get out and enjoy the warmer temperatures.
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
Because of this, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration declared May Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month to highlight the importance of motorcycle safety on our roads. As personal injury lawyers dedicated to advocating for the rights of accident victims, including motorcyclists, we at Denton, Zachary, and Norwood PLLC Law Firm understand the risks they face every day and the devastating consequences of motorcycle accidents. Let’s look into some key safety tips for both motorcyclists and other motorists to ensure everyone’s safety on the road this May and beyond.
The Importance of Motorcycle Safety
Motorcycle riders are among the most vulnerable on the road, lacking the protective shell of a vehicle in case of a collision. According to the NHTSA, in 2022, 6,218 motorcyclists lost their lives in traffic crashes, which made up 15% of all traffic fatalities. The fatality rate for motorcyclists was significantly higher than that of passenger cars. Speeding was a significant factor in fatal motorcycle crashes, with 35% of riders involved in such incidents exceeding the speed limit. Additionally, alcohol impairment was a major contributor to single-vehicle motorcycle crashes, with 42% of riders involved being alcohol-impaired. These statistics underscore the critical need for increased awareness and vigilance when sharing the road with motorcycles.
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists
Wear Protective Gear
To reduce the risk of injury in a crash, always wear a DOT-approved helmet and protective clothing, including gloves, jacket, pants, and sturdy boots.
Ride Defensively
Assume that other motorists, including cars and semi-truck drivers, may not see you and ride defensively by staying alert, obeying traffic laws, and anticipating potential hazards.
Maintain Your Bike
Just like you take care of your vehicle, it’s important to regularly inspect your motorcycle for any mechanical issues, including brakes, tires, lights, and signals, to ensure it’s in optimal working condition.
Ride Sober
Never operate a motorcycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as impaired riding significantly increases the risk of accidents.
Take Training Courses
Enroll in motorcycle safety courses to improve your riding skills and knowledge of traffic laws, especially if you’re a new rider or haven’t ridden in a while.
Safety Tips for Other Motorists
Look Twice, Save a Life
Always double-check your blind spots and mirrors for motorcycles before changing lanes or making turns. This includes semi-truck drivers, as sometimes they cannot see you.
Maintain a Safe Following Distance
Keep a safe distance when following motorcycles to provide them with ample space and time to maneuver.
Use Turn Signals
Signal your intentions clearly and in advance to alert motorcyclists of your next move, whether you’re changing lanes or turning.
Avoid Distractions
Stay focused on the road and refrain from distractions such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio, as these activities can increase the risk of accidents.
Be Patient
Motorcycles have a smaller profile and may take longer to accelerate or decelerate. Exercise patience and avoid aggressive driving behaviors when sharing the road with motorcyclists.
As Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month reminds us, safety should always be a top priority for all road users. By following these safety tips and promoting awareness within our communities, we can work together to prevent motorcycle accidents and make the roads safer for everyone. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another party, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced personal injury attorneys at Denton, Zachary, and Norwood for legal guidance and support. Together, let’s make May and every month a time to prioritize motorcycle safety.
Contact Us
Our team is here to offer guidance and professional counsel at any of our convenient office locations in Little Rock, Conway, and Cordova. As always, we advise you to exercise caution, particularly when a semi-truck is near as well as keeping an eye out for other drivers, including motorcyclists. At Denton, Zachary, and Norwood PLLC Law Firm, we’re ready to assist you in the event of an accident involving automobiles or semi-trucks. If you’ve been involved in a collision and require assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us promptly! Should you require further information or immediate assistance, contact us today!