How Other Drivers Can Cause Motorcycle Accidents
Although riding a motorcycle may be fun and even feel exhilarating, doing so comes with serious and even deadly risks. Riding a motorcycle is much more complicated than driving your average car. It requires greater physical skills and strength and in addition, it provides no outer protective structure should something go wrong. As a result, there are thousands of motorcycle accidents reported every year and many are fatal.
Recently, Oklahoma Public Safety reported that 1,285 people were harmed in Oklahoma motorcycle accidents. Of these individuals, 76 lost their lives. Despite the inherent danger of riding a motorcycle, there is an appetite for these vehicles throughout the United States with an increase in motorcycle registrations nationwide.
There are many ways that a motorcycle accident can happen, including the behavior of other drivers on the road. When a negligent or reckless driver causes a motorcyclist to crash, the outcome could be catastrophic for the motorcyclist. Serious injuries and death are very common for motorcyclists in the aftermath of a crash. The damages sustained are often extensive and obtaining the full amount of compensation possible to recover damages is essential. An Oklahoma City motorcycle accident attorney at the Putnam Law Office can help injured motorcyclists obtain the highest possible amount from their injury claims.
Other Drivers Behavior Can Be Dangerous for Motorcyclists
The Federal Highway Administration reports that deadly motorcycle accidents account for as high as 14% of all traffic fatalities reported even though they barely represent 1% of all the vehicle miles traveled every year. Motorcyclists can do well to understand what risks they face when they decide to take a ride.
While there is never any way for any motorist in any vehicle to eliminate the chances of being in a crash, there are responsible driving and defensive driving behaviors that can reduce the likelihood of a collision.
For example, drivers in other vehicles like cars and trucks can be considerate on the roadways by engaging in safe driving practices and abiding by the road rules. They can also be alert while driving and aware of their surroundings so that they can identify motorcyclists who may be on the roads with them and avoid causing an accident.
Despite the reputation motorcyclists have for being reckless with their bikes, the data just doesn’t support this notion. Most motorcyclists follow the rules and laws and are generally responsible.
Distracted driving is not only incredibly dangerous for drivers and any passengers they may have in their cars, but it also presents a hazard for others on the roads. Since motorcyclists are incredibly vulnerable, if a distracted driver hits a motorcyclist with their car, the outcome could be devastating for the motorcyclist. A review of motorcycle accident data indicates that negligent distracted drivers are the biggest threat to motorists and behind many of the crashes that take place annually.
Speak to an Attorney at the Putnam Law Office Today
A motorcycle accident can leave you with permanent injuries and impairments that can affect your life forever. For help with a personal injury claim to recover monetary compensation, please call the Putnam Law Office at (405) 849-9149 to schedule a free consultation with an Oklahoma City personal injury attorney.
