The Importance of Sharing the Road with Motorcycles
Who doesn’t love a road trip along scenic highways? Often the best way to enjoy a sightseeing journey is on a motorcycle. But to ensure your safety when out sharing the roads with other vehicles is more important than ever. The potential of a crash with a distracted driver or a collision with a truck driver that has slower reaction times is high. Defensive driving is becoming the norm on our roads.
According to national statistics, there are approximately motorcyclists 5,000 killed each year. Drivers routinely fail to observe other vehicles on the same roads. Not only are pedestrians and cyclists getting seriously injured and hurt, but motorcyclists are also suffering the same fate, often with catastrophic consequences.
If you have been severely injured in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another driver, part of your recovery is not just medical, but also monetary. Medical costs are extremely high, so to be awarded a settlement to assist with these expenses is your legal right. Retaining the services of a motorcycle accident lawyer in Woodland Hills to help you navigate the legal system is an important part of your recovery from the crash.
“Share the Road”
A common theme from safety experts is the phrase “share the road.” This should also include motorcyclists. The cause for crashes is often a visibility issue. Riders place faith and trust in drivers to operate vehicles in a courteous and attentive manner.
Each year, there are approximately 2,200 two-vehicle fatal crashes where a motorcycle and another type of vehicle were involved. In about 40 percent of these crashes, the other vehicles are turning left while the motorcycles are going straight, passing, or overtaking other vehicles. Both vehicles are going straight about 25 percent of the time. These statistics clearly show the lack of consideration afforded to motorcycle riders on our roads and especially at intersections.
Riders have suffered serious injuries in crashes in collisions with cars or trucks that have not yielded to them. These injuries can include head trauma, brain injury, internal organ damage, broken bones, and lacerations.
While helmet use has prevented many fatal injuries, serious internal injuries and limb damage can still occur. There is also the high risk of nerve and ligament damage, as well as painful road rash which can leave scarring.
Let a Woodland Hills Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Fight for You
At Barry P. Goldberg, we have an experienced team of litigators who will work vigorously on your case. We will use all available resources to ensure you get the best legal results based on the circumstances of your case. Some of these resources include witness statements, police reports, and photos. If needed, we will retain an accident reconstructionist, who will forensically recreate the crash to show who the responsible party was.
While practicing safe riding for crash avoidance is important, falling victim to another driver’s negligence is something that is unpredictable. Call our firm today to set up a free consultation with a Woodland Hills motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss your case.