Motorcyclists are perceived by many people to be adventurous troublemakers and reckless thrillseekers. As a result, when a motorcycle and a vehicle collide, most assume that the motorcyclist is naturally the one at fault. This assumption is not just incorrect. It is irresponsible to believe that all motorcyclists speed, drive impaired, drag race, and ignore lane laws when motor vehicle operators are often guilty of the same. Because of this bias, motorcyclists should seek the help of an attorney to present the facts indisputably on their behalf.
Motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation and recreation in Texas and around the country. Between 2006 and 2015, the number of registered motorcycles in the United States increased by more than 30%, to more than 8.5 million. Unfortunately, despite its many advantages, motorcycling is far more dangerous than traveling by car, truck, bus, or other more traditional motor vehicles. While motorcycles represent only about 1% of the miles traveled nationwide, they are responsible for about 14% of annual traffic deaths—up from just 5% in 1997.
In 2016, 463 motorcyclists were killed on Texas roads. Another 33 passengers riding on motorcycles lost their lives, as well. 1,861 motorcycle riders and 147 passengers suffered incapacitating injuries, and thousands more suffered less serious injuries in motorcycle accidents.
To some degree, the dangers associated with riding a motorcycle can be mitigated by helmet use. However, nearly half of those killed and more than half of those injured in 2016 were wearing helmets. While this type of precaution minimizes certain risks, protective gear cannot fully compensate for the fact that a motorcyclist is exposed in a way that those in passenger cars and commercial vehicles are not. As a result, an accident that might be a minor fender-bender between two vehicles can be fatal for a motorcyclist.
Nearly a quarter of fatal motorcycle accidents involve the motorcycle colliding with a fixed object, rather than a collision with another vehicle. About 40% of fatal motorcycle accidents that do involve a car or other type of vehicle occur while the other vehicle is making a left turn. Rear-end collisions also result in a significant percentage of serious injuries and fatalities for motorcyclists.
The nature of the motorcycle makes it much easier for a rider to be thrown from the vehicle, and when a collision occurs, the rider’s body absorbs the impact that is distributed by the protective cage around the passenger compartment of a car. Thus, it is critical that motorcyclists exercise care when riding, and that operators of other vehicles make a conscious effort to watch out for motorcycles and take precautions. Some simple ways to reduce the risk of serious injury or death include:
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation that will help you rebuild and recover. Experienced personal injury attorney Bill Smith can help you learn more about your legal rights and options after an accident. If you are seeking legal counsel in the Dallas area, call Bill today to schedule a free consultation.
