Santa Maria Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Motorcycle riders involved in a collision with an automobile, bus, or truck are at risk of serious injury or wrongful death. In fact, studies conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have found that motorcyclists are nine times more likely to be injured in an accident than the occupant of an automobile, and 37 times more likely to be killed than a person in a car in the same crash.
While automobiles are being continually made safer, there is little protection offered to a biker beyond a helmet and riding leathers. Protective clothing unfortunately offers little protection in the event of a serious accident. If you have been hurt in an accident, you need the assistance of motorcycle accident lawyers in Santa Maria who understand the unique issues that must be addressed in accidents involving motorcycles or serious injuries.
Motorcyclists are at a significantly higher risk to be involved in an accident than vehicle drivers. They lack surrounding protection and are more likely to suffer severe injuries and fatal injuries. The best way to prevent or avoid a motorcycle accident is to know what can cause them:
- Unsafe lane changes: it is imperative to check and double check your blind spots when changing lanes.
- Car doors: drivers should always double check their surroundings before opening their doors.
- Speeding: speed accounts for 34% of motorcycle accidents. Traveling at a safe speed and distance significantly reduces the chance of an accident happening.
- Lake splitting: driving between two lanes is legal in California but it may still cause an accident.
- Driving under the influence: drugs, alcohol and medicine impair the driver putting the driver and other people on the road at risk.
- Weather conditions: rain, snow, wind and poor visibility increase the chance of an accident.
- Motorcycle defects: the manufacturer may be held responsible in case of a product defect.
- Inexperienced drivers: young drivers or those with little experience make poor decisions such as forgetting to signal, driving too close or not checking their blind spots.
- Right of Way turns: drivers may be confused or distracted when making turns increasing the chances of a collision.
How To Prevent a Motorcycle Accident
As a motorcyclist, you have a responsibility on the road to think fast and think ahead. The luxury of slamming on breaks at the very last minute is not something that motorcyclists can afford to do. Here are some tips to prevent a motorcycle accident:
- Slow down
- Look behind you when stopped at an intersection
- Do not ride between traffic and parked cars
- Always ride sober
- Learn how to avoid road hazards and debris
- Perform regular maintenance checks
- Wear appropriate gear to avoid distraction
What Should You Do If You Were in a Motorcycle Accident?
Motorcycle accident lawyers in Santa Maria understand the thrill of riding along California’s scenic Central Coast, as well as the many dangers posed by weekend traffic rushing through the valleys, hills, and bends of the 101 and Highway 1. Let us help you obtain the compensation you need to pay your bills and support your family while you recover from your injuries. Contact the Santa Maria motorcycle accident lawyers at James McKiernan Lawyers for a free consultation.
