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Motorcycle Accidents

Last Updated: Wednesday, July 22, 2015

Motorcycles are a popular method of transportation in California. Many people ride their motorcycles year-round in Southern California weather. Sadly, lots of motorcycle accidents happen every year.

Because motorcyclists are allowed in California to spilt lanes, even more accidents can potentially occur. It is important that motorcyclists and other motorists are aware of one another so they may safely share the road. Motorcyclists should consider the safety tips in this article whenever they decide to ride.

  • Check all lanes: Motorcyclists must remember that simply checking mirrors is not sufficient before completing a lane change. A visual check of all blind spots is also important

  • Brake properly: When motorcyclists brake hard, momentum often carries the bike forward and shifts the weight to the front. If a biker is not familiar with the power of the weight shift, it is possible, and even likely that the brakes will lock and the back of the bike will lift off the road. Practicing proper hard braking in a controlled, safe situation can save your life

  • Cornering: When taking a corner, it is important to take the correct line. A rider should approach turns wide. This requires the least amount of braking and lean while providing the best view of the biker's blind spots

  • Unstable surfaces: Riders should avoid dropping their feet and walking their bikes on rough terrain. Instead, they should learn to negotiate different types of terrain

  • Protective clothing: Motorcyclists should wear the proper safety gear, including boots, gloves, long pants and a sturdy jacket in addition to a helmet. These things can vastly decrease the severity of injuries suffered should an accident

  • Passenger safety: If you are a passenger on a motorcycle, you should not mount or dismount the bike without being instructed to do so. In addition, it is important to keep your body in a neutral position when approaching a turn. Try to speak to the driver only if you have to so as not to startle them

If, despite all of these safety precautions, you are involved in an injury accident involving a motorcycle, there are certain steps you should take. Most of these steps are similar or the same as what you should do following a car accident.

You should obtain information from the other drivers involved in the accident. Next, you should gather information from any witnesses at the scene. If possible, you should take pictures of the scene and the accident. You should take notes about your memory of the accident as soon as possible after it occurs.

Of course, if you have been injured, you should get treatment immediately and keep all medical records associated with your treatment.

If you have been in a motorcycle accident, you do not need to try to deal with the insurance companies and other parties involved by yourself. Our office can help you evaluate your claim and ensure your legal rights are protected.