In the San Fernando Valley, riding a motorcycle is a popular pastime — and form of transportation for many hoping to avoid the terrible congestion on the 101 or on the busier side streets. Unfortunately, accidents involving automobiles and motorcycles are quite common in this area and motorcyclists, without the steel casing of a car or truck to protect them, are at an increased risk of injury. If you or a loved one are injured in a motorcycle accident that was not your fault, know that California law is on your side. Indeed, if through no fault of your own, a vehicle hits you, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can explain more.
Half of Motorcycle-Vehicle Collisions Take Place at Intersections
When approaching an intersection, motorcyclists need to keep an eye out for oncoming traffic, potential red light runners, and cars quickly pulling out of driveways or alleys.
As a motorcycle rider, you can protect yourself by remembering to slow down and double-checking that no traffic is coming. Prepare to react quickly, if necessary, because other vehicles on the road might drive carelessly around motorcycles. You might not see them—and they might not see you.
Motorcycles are Far Deadlier Than Cars
While the number of people who die in car accidents is higher than those who die in motorcycle accidents, that is because there are more drivers and cars on the roads. According to the federal government, a comparison of deaths per mile traveled has found that the death rate of people riding motorcycles is more than 27 times that of people riding in other vehicles.
About Half of All Fatal Single-Vehicle Crashes Involve Alcohol
We’ve discussed the dangers of drinking and driving in numerous posts, including this one detailing the financial compensation available to drunk driving accident victims. Drunk drivers put everyone at risk, including motorcyclists. And motorcycle riders who drink and ride are especially vulnerable to being involved in a catastrophic accident involving a traumatic brain injury, paralysis, and more.
If you or a loved one were injured in a motorcycle accident in the San Fernando Valley, contact accident lawyer Barry P. Goldberg today to discuss your legal rights and next steps. Consultations are always free.
