Foley Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Aggressive & Effective Representation for Motorcycle Crash Victims
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration monitors traffic-related accidents throughout the United States and provides specific data on motorcycle accidents. The Administration defines a motorcycle as a moped, two or three-wheeled motorcycle, off-road motorcycle, scooter, mini bike, or pocket bike.
In 2013, motorcycle riders accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities in the United States. Over 4,600 people were killed riding motorcycles in that year. When thinking about purchasing, renting, or borrowing a motorcycle it is imperative that riders know the serious dangers and risks. A collision, turnover, or accident can be both financially and emotionally devastating for motorcycle riders and their loved ones.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Alabama
- In 2013 the most harmful event for more than half of motorcycle riders was a collision with another moving car. In these accidents, the other vehicles were typically making a left turn while the motorcycles were driving straight. This data suggests that car drivers may not see motorcycle riders when they attempt to make left turns. For this reason, it is imperative for motorcycle drivers to wear brightly-colored clothing and exercise extreme caution when approaching an intersection where a driver may be making a left turn.
- Timing also is a significant factor with respect to fatal motorcycle collisions. In terms of age, the “40-and-older” age group made up 55 percent of motorcyclists killed in 2013. Most of these collisions occurred during the work week, (between Monday at 6:00 a.m. and Friday at 5:59 p.m.). This was a shift from the 2004 report, which suggested that more fatal motorcycle collisions occurred during the weekend—not the work week.
- As with cars, motorcycles become significantly more dangerous when the operator has consumed alcohol. Of all the motorcycle-related fatalities in 2013, 35 percent of deceased riders were found to have consumed alcohol prior to riding. More than 25 percent were above the legal limit of .08 Blood Alcohol Content at the time of death. Again, this affected the 40+ age group at a disproportionate rate. Ages 40 to 49 represented 40 percent of these alcohol-related motorcycle fatalities.
The Importance of Wearing a Helmet
But perhaps the single greatest indicator as to whether a motorcycle rider survives a collision is the presence of a protective helmet. Helmets are estimated to be 37-percent effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle riders. In other words, for every 100 motorcycle riders killed in crashes while not wearing helmets, 37 of them could have been saved had all 100 worn helmets.
Despite motorcycles being perfectly legal, the presence of car and truck drivers makes riding a dangerous activity. Those that fail to operate cars in a reasonably prudent and safe manner can be held liable for the harm they cause to motorcycle enthusiasts.
Hire a Team of Skilled Daphne Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
If you or your loved one is a victim of a motorcycle collision or accident call (or fill out our online contact form) our car accident attorneys at Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana, P.C. to discuss your legal options. Your right to the road is no less than any other driver, and you or your family may be compensated when other drivers are negligent.
Schedule your free consultation today by calling (251) 444-7000.