OFF THE WIRE
http://world.einnews.com/247pr/337802
Riding Season Brings Renewed Emphasis On Motorcycle Safety
Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as
other drivers on the road.
CHICAGO, IL, April 08, 2013 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The beginning
of Spring means many things to many people. For some, it means baseball season
and barbecuing. For others, it means walking along the lake and soaking up the
rays. For motorcycle riders, it means finally being able to get back out on the
roads and enjoy what is for many more of a lifestyle than a hobby. The return of
motorcycle friendly weather brings with it a renewed emphasis on keeping riders
safe and healthy. The Illinois Department of Transportation is reminding
motorcycle riders of the importance of proper training and proper safety
equipment. These and other safety tips can make the difference between a
pleasant riding season and a serious motorcycle accident.
In 2010, roughly 4,500 Americans were killed in motorcycle
crashes. Thousands more suffered traumatic injuries that will impact the rest of
their lives. According to IDOT, motorcycle deaths made up more than 15 percent
of all vehicle deaths in 2012. The State is asking that riders help reduce that
number by making an effort to wear safe gear, including a helmet and protective,
high visibility clothing. In addition, officials are asking Illinois
motorcyclists to make sure that the equipment they use is in good condition.
The AAA has made several recommendations to help keep
motorcyclists safe. These recommendations include making motorcycle training
more accessible and convenient, as well as teaching every driver the proper way
to share the road with motorcycles. At least one major study concluded that 75
percent of motorcycle accidents involve a passenger vehicle and, among those
accidents, two-thirds involved the car violating the motorcyclist's right of
way. The common refrain from car drivers is that they never saw the motorcycle
until they hit it. That goes to show that the importance of protective clothing
that is easily visible cannot be underestimated.
Proper motorcycle gear includes more than just a helmet that
meets the high protection standard. In addition, motorcyclists are encouraged to
wear eyewear and closed-toe footwear, preferably over-the-ankle boots. Riders
should wear leather or heavy long pants, as well as leather or a heavy duty long
sleeve jacket. Many states recommend the use of full fingered leather gloves, as
well.
A significant percentage of motorcycle accidents, particularly
fatal motorcycle crashes, involve speeding or alcohol use. The Governors Highway
Safety Association indicates that more than one-third of all motorcyclists
involved in deadly crashes were speeding. Even a relatively low speed crash can
lead to serious injury if the rider is not wearing a helmet. Traumatic brain
injuries lead to serious, lifelong consequences for riders and their loved ones.
Speeding only heightens the risk that a crash will lead to serious injury or
death.
Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other
drivers on the road. Avoiding injury requires more than an understanding of your
rights. By taking safety precautions and improving your chances of avoiding an
accident or at least surviving one, you can help make this riding season a
success.
Our lawyers represent clients with serious personal injury and
wrongful death cases in matters arising from trucking and other motor vehicle
accidents, medical malpractice, construction accidents and product liability.
Rapoport Law Offices is also well known nationally for its expertise in the
field of aviation law, representing victims of commercial and general airplane
crashes for over twenty-five years.
