May is National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, a good time for motorcyclists and the drivers of passenger vehicles to take a moment to reflect on their driving behaviors.
Did you know that most motorcycle accidents are caused by the drivers of larger vehicles? In fact, the most common cause of motorcycle accidents is when the driver of a larger vehicle turns in front of or into a motorcyclist. This means that many motorcycle accidents could be avoided if the drivers of larger vehicles slowed down and paid better attention to what was happening around them. It also means that victims of motorcycle accidents are often entitled to compensation well beyond the paltry offerings of insurance companies.
If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed in a motorcycle accident, Herbert Thornbury, Esquire is here to help. Please use the contact form on this page or call our office at 423-991-2231 to schedule a free case review and learn more.
Keeping Yourself Safe
Motorcyclists are at a much higher risk for serious or fatal injury. Riders and their passengers must follow all state laws to help protect themselves from harm. This includes obeying traffic signs and signals, avoiding distraction, and only riding when sober. It also includes wearing a DOT-approved helmet and making sure your bike has:
- Two rear-view mirrors
- Working turn signals
- Front and rear brakes
- Operational headlight, taillight, and brake lights
- Operational horn
If your helmet does not have a protective shield, you will need to wear protective goggles or have a windscreen on your bike to operate legally in the state of Tennessee.
While not required, it is strongly recommended that motorcyclists and their passengers wear leather jackets, gloves, boots, and chaps to help minimize injury risk in the case of an accident.
Do You Need Help?
Insurance seldom covers the entire cost of a motorcycle accident, particularly in cases where serious injury has occurred. If you have been injured in an accident, it is always a good idea to contact a lawyer who understands motorcycle accident law to gather a more comprehensive understanding of your rights and options.
Please call Herbert Thornbury, Esquire at 423-991-2231 to schedule your consultation today.
