Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Kansas City, Missouri
It’s no secret that having an accident while riding a motorcycle is far more dangerous than being in a car accident. More than 80% of all reported motorcycle crashes result in injury or death, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.
According to government data, motorcycles make up only 3 percent of registered vehicles but accounted for 15% of all traffic fatalities in 2017. Fatalities among riders and passengers have more than doubled since 1997.
There are some things you can do to improve your safety while riding a bike. By far, the most important thing is to always wear a helmet.
Here is some information to help you pick the right helmet:
According to the National Safety Council, here are other things you can do in addition to wearing a helmet.
- According to the National Safety Council, here are other things you can do in addition to wearing a helmet.
- Choose a bike that fits you; "supersport bikes" have driver death rates about four times that of cruisers or standard bikes, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
- Invest in antilock brakes
- New riders should take a motorcycle safety course, and experienced riders should take refresher courses after being off their bikes
for a while - Know the rules of the road
- Be aware that riding with a passenger requires considerably more skill
- Never drink and ride
- Drive defensively, especially at intersections, where half of
all collisions occur - Watch for hazards like potholes, manhole covers, oil slicks, puddles, debris, railroad tracks, and gravel
- Assume you are invisible to other motorists and position yourself
to be seen - Use headlights day and night
- Be courteous; don't weave in and out of lanes or ride on the shoulder or between lanes
- Don't speed
- Wear bright and/or reflective clothing that is durable and boots that cover the ankles
- Wear goggles and glasses or use a face shield that is ventilated to prevent fogging, and make sure it's clear if riding at night
A case we handled several years ago shows the danger of motorcycle riding. Our client’s husband was a 72-year-old man who was on a large cruiser bike, had the headlight on, was wearing a helmet, and obeyed all of the traffic laws. A man driving a commercial vehicle decided to make a right turn from the middle lane of traffic and clipped the back of the bike. The man on the bike fell and landed on the street, dying of a brain hemorrhage a short time later. He did everything right and still lost his life. We were able to obtain for his widow a $3 million policy limits settlement for his tragic death.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident or if a loved one has died in an accident, we can help. Call us immediately for a free consultation.