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Motorcycle Safety Awareness

May is National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.  The joy of the open road while riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating feeling and one that many enjoy during springtime.  However, motorcyclists must be cautious and use solid judgment when riding.  The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) recently reported that more than 80% of all reported motorcycle crashes result in injury or death.  In fact, in 2017 the NHTSA reported there were 5,172 motorcyclists that died in crashes that year.

Unlike enclosed vehicles, motorcycles have no protection and are also much less visible to other drivers.  Pairing the high-speed capabilities of motorcycles with their limited protection; motorcyclists involved in crashes have a greater risk of death or serious injury.

Facts

• 91% of riders who died in a motorcycle crash in 2017 were male
• 28% of riders who died in a motorcycle crash in 2017 were alcohol-impaired
• Motorcyclists accounted for 14% of all traffic fatalities in 2017

If you do however plan to hit the open road; please follow these tips from the National Safety Council to enjoy an exhilarating but safe motorcycle ride:

• Invest in antilock brakes
• New riders should take a motorcycle safety course, and experienced riders should take refresher courses after being off their bikes for a while
• Know the rules of the road
• Be aware that riding with a passenger requires considerably more skill
• Never drink and ride
• Drive defensively, especially at intersections, where half of all collisions occur
• Watch for hazards like potholes, manhole covers, oil slicks, puddles, debris, railroad tracks and gravel
• Assume you are invisible to other motorists and position yourself to be seen
• Use headlights day and night
• Be courteous; don’t weave in and out of lanes, or ride on the shoulder or between lanes
• Don’t speed
• Wear bright and/or reflective clothing that is durable and boots that cover the ankles

Motorcyclists that have been injured in accidents caused by other drivers have the legal right to seek compensation to cover medical costs and other related expenses.  These legal claims require an understanding of personal injury law and vehicle traffic safety.  If you have questions about a motorcycle accident, ECanter Lawyers can answer them. 

To learn more about motorcycle riding safety, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycle-safety

ECanter Lawyers

When you are dealing with the chaos and pain of accidents and personal injuries, the last thing you need is technical, confusing legal language.  ECanter Lawyers breaks down the complexities and provides clear, informative answers so that you understand your legal options. 

For over two decades, ECanter Lawyers has remained committed to honest, straightforward answers.  Named one of AVVO’s Clients’ Choice, ECanter Lawyers has helped clients receive multi-million-dollar verdicts, and millions of dollars in settlements.  ECanter Lawyers specializes in personal injury, motor vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, premises and product liability, and healthcare law.

With offices conveniently located throughout South Florida and 24/7 services, ECanter Lawyers personal injury law firm offers you the personalized attention that you need in order to maximize your compensation. 

561-447-4500

Boca Raton | West Palm Beach | Coral Springs | Ft. Lauderdale | Sunrise

https://www.nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/motorcycle-safety

https://www.nhtsa.gov/traffic-deaths-2018