Motorcycle accidents are extremely common. In fact, motorcycle riders are 8 times more likely to be injured in an accident than car drivers and 35 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than that of a car driver. However, becoming educated on the motorcycle rules of the road, as well as exercising proper safety techniques before riding, can prevent motorcycle accidents. If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident contacting a good attorney is crucial. Contact the personal injury attorneys of Finkelstein and Partners, LLP today. Our experienced team of personal injury lawyers will stop at nothing to make sure you receive only the best in legal representation.
First and most importantly, wearing a helmet is essential to motorcycle safety. And not just any helmet, this must be a department of transportation-certified helmet that is specifically designed to protect a motorcycle rider. There are currently 19 states, plus Washington D.C. that enforce laws mandating motorcycle riders to wear a helmet. 28 other states only enforce partial helmet wearing laws, usually only for young riders between the ages of 18 and 21. Illinois, Iowa and New Hampshire are the three states that don’t enforce any helmet wearing laws at all.
While wearing a helmet is essential to motorcycle riding safety, there is other riding gear that is also important to maintain proper motorcycle safety. This may include a tight, long sleeved, durable material jacket, synthetic material pants, sturdy boots that will support your ankles, heavy gloves and shatter proof glasses. Being conscious of proper safety gear before riding will not prevent an accident, but can prevent significant injury or even death in the event that a crash does occur.
Another important aspect of motorcycle safety is making sure that drivers on the road can see you. Many motorcycle to car collisions take place because the car doesn’t see the motorcycle or the rider. To eliminate this, riders can wear reflective or brightly colored clothing, always using turn signals and making sure that your bike’s headlight is on at all times.
Finally, understand your bike. The anatomy of a safe motorcycle incudes a bike with good tire treads and proper head, tail and break lights. Working turn signals, breaks, mirrors and a horn are also essential. It is also important to make sure everything on your bike is running properly before going out for a ride. It is also a good idea to get used to riding your bike in small areas before taking it to the streets or trails. This will allow you to become completely familiar with the way your bike works, rides and feels.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact the personal injury attorneys of Finkelstein and Partners, LLP today. Our expert team of personal injury lawyers has what it takes to fight for the compensations you need and deserve. Call us at (800) 529-2676.
Mr. Finkelstein is the Managing Partner of Finkelstein & Partners, LLP. He has become a noted consumer activist through his representation of injured individuals against corporate wrongdoers and irresponsible parties.
An accomplished litigator, Mr. Finkelstein has represented Plaintiffs in wrongful death and catastrophic personal injury cases. He has successfully handled dozens of multi-million dollar cases.