Due to their small size, motorcycles are far less visible to other drivers on the road than cars and trucks. Debris and road defects also impact motorcycles much more than they do other vehicles. Motorcycles’ two-wheeled design and lack of safety features also make them less stable and injuries much more likely for the rider in the event of a crash.
While most riders are aware of and accept the inherent dangers posed by riding a motorcycle, it is still important for bikers and the drivers of other vehicles to exercise caution and share the road. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents can and do happen quite frequently in Virginia. Many of these collisions are the result of driver negligence.
According to the 2018 Virginia Traffic Crash Facts from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Virginia Highway Safety Office, there were 1,792 motorcycle crashes in the state, including 88 motorcyclists killed, 1,495 motorcyclists injured, and 629 motorcyclists seriously injured.
Motorcycle Safety Tips for Riders
The National Safety Council (NSC) offers many helpful safety tips for bikers. The NSC recommends that you choose a motorcycle that fits your riding style – specifically noting that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that “supersport bikes” have driver death rates about four times that of cruisers or standard bikes – invest in antilock brakes, and obey the rules of the road.
The NSC also recommends that new riders take a motorcycle safety course, and experienced riders should also take refresher courses. The Virginia DMV offers a Virginia Rider Training Program at Tidewater Community College in Virginia Beach, as well as many other locations across the state.
Motorcycle Safety Tips for Other Drivers
The NSC also offers tips for the drivers of cars and trucks. Drivers often violate the motorcycle riders’ right of way because:
- Motorcycles are small and sometimes difficult to spot.
- Drivers don’t correctly anticipate the motorcycle’s movements.
- Drivers are distracted.
- The view of the motorcycle is obstructed by another vehicle or the driver’s blind spots.
To avoid a serious or potentially fatal crash, drivers should always be alert and aware of motorcycles on the road. They should avoid distractions that could result in a collision and should leave plenty of distance between their vehicle and the motorcycle whenever possible.
How Can Ruloff, Swain, Haddad, Morecock, Talbert & Woodward, P.C. Help Me?
Were you hurt in a motorcycle crash in the Virginia Beach area? Ruloff, Swain, Haddad, Morecock, Talbert & Woodward, P.C. has extensive experience helping people just like you seek justice for their personal injury claims. We know how motorcycle accident claims work, and we have a noteworthy track record of successful verdicts and settlements on behalf of our clients. Let us put our skills to work on your behalf.
Our firm can immediately step in and handle all of the required legal legwork involved in your case, including negotiating a settlement or filing a lawsuit when necessary. Call us or contact us online now to take advantage of a free consultation.