May is Motorcycle Awareness Month
Motorcyclists are at a higher risk of being involved in a fatal crash than are other motorists. May is motorcycle awareness month; whether you are a rider or a driver, do your part to stay safe and reduce accidents.
While drivers should be aware of motorcyclists on the road every single day of the year, there is only one month devoted to motorcycle awareness: May. This month, whether you are a motorcyclist or a driver, it is a smart time to familiarize yourself with best practices for navigating the roads safely. At the law office of Burch & Stewart, we are strong advocates for motorcycle safety, and have represented many injured motorcyclists over the years.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics You Should Know
Every year across the United States, there are hundreds of motorcyclists killed in crashes. The Insurance Information Institute (III) reported that in 2016, there were 5,286 motorcyclist fatalities reported - a rate of over 25 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled.
In Tennessee, there are also dozens of fatal motorcycle accidents reported every year. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security reports that in 2018, there were 168 motorcyclist fatalities recorded in the state. In eight of these cases, the motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet.
The NHTSA reports that motorcyclists are five times more likely to be injured in a crash than are occupants in standard motor vehicles, and that they are 27 times more likely to be killed in a crash. This is despite the fact that motorcycles only make up about 3% of all registered vehicles in the county.
What You can do to Reduce the Rate of Accidents
Reminding yourself every time you get behind the wheel of your car, or the handlebars of your motorcycle, that safe driving/operation matters could be life-saving. If you are a motorcyclist, remember to:
- Stay out of drivers’ blind spots;
- Never lane split;
- Maintain a safe speed;
- Wear a helmet;
- Avoid aggressive behaviors; and
- Always stay sober and focused.
As a driver, you also have a responsibility to motorcyclists on the roads. Things that you can do to keep yourself and others safe include:
- Slow down and pay attention to your surroundings;
- Put distractions, especially your cell phone, away;
- Allow motorcyclists plenty of room; and
- Double-check blind spots before lane-changing.
What to do if You Have Been in a Motorcycle Crash in Manchester
Being involved in a motorcycle accident can be a tragic experience; when motorcycle accidents are not fatal, they can leave motorcyclists with permanent and life-changing injuries. If you have been in a crash, you deserve to be compensated for the full value of your losses - our lawyers can help.
When you call the offices of Burch & Stewart, our Manchester motorcycle accident attorneys will build your case, negotiate your claim, and represent you from start to finish. For your free consultation with our law firm, please call us directly or send us a message telling us more about your crash and your injuries.
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