May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

Although it’s not the great American pastime, motorcycling is arguably a close second. For those who enjoy the open road and speed, there’s nothing like the wind whipping through your hair and the ability of a bike. However, motorcycle riding, unfortunately, isn’t without its risks.

Spring is in the air, and this means that many motorcyclists are hopping on their bikes that have been neglected during the cooler months. As such, May was chosen as annual Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month to encourage safe motorcycle riding practices. It takes both motorcyclists and other motorists to keep everyone safe on the road. If you or someone you love suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence while on a motorcycle, a Round Rock personal injury lawyer can help.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcycle safety is everyone’s responsibility. It might not seem like motorcycle accidents happen very often, but they do, and when they do, they frequently cause severe injuries and even fatalities. Consider these motorcycle accident statistics:

  • In 2017, 5,172 motorcycle riders and their passengers lost their lives in accidents. 
  • Fatal injuries among motorcycle riders and passengers have more than doubled in the past two decades.
  • While motorcycles account for only three percent of all registered vehicles and only 0.6 percent of all vehicle miles traveled in America, they accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities in 2017.
  • 28 percent of bikers who died in a motorcycle crash in 2017 were alcohol-impaired

Sadly, most of these accidents weren’t really “accidents” at all; they were preventable crashes that occurred due to negligence. Round Rock personal injury attorneys fight for justice on behalf of injured motorcyclists and their families. 

Who is Responsible for Motorcycle Accidents?

After a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to determine who and what caused the accident. It’s also important to note that more than one party could be responsible for the collision. Potential at-fault parties include:

  • The driver of another vehicle is at fault in about half of all car-motorcycle accidents. The most common reasons these accidents occur include not seeing the motorcycle, speeding, distracted driving, reckless driving, fatigued driving, or impaired driving
  • The motorcycle driver. Motorcycle drivers are also at fault in about half of crashes. They have been speeding, violated a traffic law, riding under the influence, riding recklessly, or riding tired. However, even when there is some liability on the part of the motorcyclist, other parties could have also contributed to the cause of the accident. If this applies to you, don’t hesitate to discuss your claim with an experienced Round Rock personal injury attorney.
  • A municipality if a crash happened because of poor road design or poor road conditions 
  • An auto manufacturer may have used a defective motorcycle part, such as a bad tire or brakes, and may already face lawsuits from other riders.
  • A mechanic who worked on your bike in a negligent manner

One or more of these parties might be liable for your injuries and losses, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. 

Seek Representation from an Experienced Round Rock Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Don’t simply accept your damages after a motorcycle accident. You deserve compensation. Schedule your private consultation with an experienced Round Rock personal injury lawyer at the Elissa I. Henry Law Firm, PLLC. Call (512) 766-4529 today or complete our online contact form.