It’s easy to forget that cars, trucks and buses share the road with motorcycles. In fact, that attitude is often the problem behind troubles for bikers. Many drivers do not know how to properly watch out for motorcycles, and the smaller, fast-moving vehicles are more difficult to see during a classic California sunset or fog.
Drivers in the Golden State may be disappointed, although perhaps not surprised, that Southern California has one of the nation’s highest fatality rates among motorcycle drivers and passengers. This is disturbing — on top of the general dangers to bikers that make death in an accident 28 times more likely on a motorcycle than in a car.
Friends and families of bikers, concerned for their safety, often insist on the protective equipment available for motorcycle riders. A helmet is mandatory for bikers of all experience levels, and padded gear for knees, elbows and torsos are often a good idea for eliminating the traumatic effect of a collision.
California and other states are trying to combat the increase in motorcycle fatalities, which have more than doubled in the last two decades. Riding classes are free to many license seekers, and many types of protective equipment are offered at discounts.
If a tragedy occurs, it frequently leaves families at the mercy of life without a major provider or a devoted loved one. Even if a motorcyclist survives, he or she may be left with severe permanent injuries and face a lifelong period of care and recovery. Financial damages are among the few options for the victims of motorcycle accidents. An attorney can help review the facts of a specific accident and advise families on the best way to proceed against a driver at fault.