As the weather continues to improve, motorcycles will become a more common sight on roads in and around Chattanooga. This makes it very important that motorcyclists and the drivers of passenger vehicles practice extra caution to help prevent motorcycle accidents.
Around 42% of all motorcycle accidents occur when the driver of a larger vehicle makes a left hand turn into a motorcyclist. This type of collision is often fatal for the biker. In fact, motorcycle accidents are 27-times more likely to result in fatal injury than those involving passenger vehicles alone. Even when not fatal, motorcycle accidents often result in spinal cord damage, brain injury, and other serious and life-altering injuries that can have a lifelong impact on victims.
If you drive a car, truck, or SUV, you can help prevent motorcycle accidents by paying more attention. The most common excuse given for striking a motorcycle is not seeing it. By slowing down, looking twice, and taking time to carefully assess your path, you may save a life. You can further help protect motorcyclists by not tailgating, avoiding distracted driving, and being attentive to your surroundings while you drive.
Motorcyclists can help prevent accidents by obeying the speed limit, paying close attention to traffic signs and warnings, and engaging in safe riding practices. These may include:
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Expecting the unexpected - the drivers of cars are unpredictable. As a motorcyclist, you can help keep yourself safe by paying attention to the behaviors of those vehicles around you.
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Refraining from alcohol and drug use - the NHTSA reports that, in 43% of single-vehicle motorcycle accidents, the motorcyclists is impaired.
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Being aware of your surroundings - the most effective way to prevent an accident is to pay attention to what you’re doing and to what’s happening around you. This enables you to react appropriately to dangerous situations as they arise
Paying attention, staying sober, and driving safely can help prevent your being involved in a motorcycle accident. Wearing appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, which is required in Tennessee, along with boots, leathers, and gloves will further protect you against injury during a crash. Risks for spinal cord damage and traumatic brain injury both increase when no helmet is worn. So, too, does the risk of death.
Of course, even the most cautious of motorcyclists cannot prevent all accidents and, when these accidents occur, even those in full safety gear may experience serious injury. When this happens, Chattanooga motorcycle accident lawyer, Herbert Thornbury, is here to help. Experienced, committed, and attentive, Mr. Thornbury is prepared to get to work on your case right away and to help you get the compensation you are due.
Please call the Chattanooga office of Herbert Thornbury, Attorney at Law at 423-443-3973 to learn how we can help you get fair compensation.
