LOOK OUT FOR BIKES!
Spring in the Tri-State means the return of 3 things: flowers, construction barrels and motorcycles. As the weather warms and more bikes share the local roads, drivers need to keep an extra close eye out for them.
Here are a few sobering statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s most recent data on motorcycle crashes:
- There were 4,976 motorcyclists killed and 88,000 motorcyclists injured over the course of one year in the U.S.;
- Motorcyclists are 29 times more likely to be killed than passengers in automobiles;
- A vast majority of motorcycle collisions occur as a result of the actions of drivers of cars and trucks.
What these statistics tell us, more than anything, is that operators of cars and trucks have the power to save lives every day. Rule #1 – Look Again. Even if you already looked for traffic, go ahead and look again to make sure you’re not pulling out in front of a motorcycle. Rule #2 – Listen. Loud exhaust systems on many motorcycles aren’t just cool to hear, they are also an audible alarm to alert you to the bike’s presence. Rule #3 – Give Space. When traveling behind a motorcycle and especially when passing, give them extra room.
If we keep our eyes and ears open, and give plenty of distance between our car and motorcycles, then we can all make it home safely. Although our firm has proudly represented many riders and we are friends with many more, we would much rather see them out and about in the community than in a hospital or at our office. If you need more information or legal representation, please call our office (304) 522-3038 or go to: Our Website
