Every year, over 5,000 motorcyclists are killed and thousands more are injured in crashes involving the motorcycle and other motor vehicles. Motorcyclists often suffer worse in these crashes than do the occupants of a car or truck, since the bike provides very little protection in a collision.
The Governors’ Highway Safety Association (GHSA) recently released information on motorcycle accidents in the U.S. that highlights the top risks motorcyclists face on the road:
- Not wearing a helmet. A motorcycle helmet can decrease your risk of death and of serious head injury. New Hampshire doesn’t require helmets for most riders, but you can choose to protect yourself by wearing one every time you ride.
- Not getting a license. In New Hampshire, a motorcycle license demonstrates that a rider has the basic safety skills necessary to protect him- or herself from many kinds of accidents. Getting a license and taking safety classes can further help you learn to protect yourself in a crash.
- Alcohol use. Alcohol is a factor in 30 percent of fatal motorcycle crashes and 45 percent of injury crashes each year. You can’t stop other drivers from drinking, but you can keep yourself sober so you can respond quickly in an emergency.
- Speeding. The GHSA estimates that 35 percent of all motorcycle crash deaths involved a speeding biker – a higher rate than for other vehicles. Following the posted speed limit, or going slower in bad weather or other adverse conditions, can help protect you.
At Tenn And Tenn, P.A., our skilled Manchester motorcycle accident attorneys do more than provide top-quality representation to each of our motorcycle injury clients. We also ride motorcycles ourselves, so we have personal experience with the risks motorcyclists face and the rewards of hitting the road. For a free, confidential case evaluation, call us today at (888) 332-5855.