Motorcycle Accident Reminds Californians of the Risks of Motorcycling

On Friday, September 21st, a Californian motorcyclist was fatally injured in Firebaugh, California. The accident occurred late in the evening when the victim’s motorcycle drifted out of control and launched the rider into a dry drainage canal. The tragic accident reminded all Californians of the inherent dangers of motorcycling. In 2016 alone, 4,976 motorcyclists were killed throughout the United States. If you or a loved one are injured in a motorcycle accident, it is critically important to pursue the legal representation your family deserves.

Due to the small stature of motorcycles and the general lack of structural protection, motorcyclists face much greater risks of injury in a motor vehicle collision. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in 2015, motorcyclists were 29% more likely to suffer fatal injuries in a collision than car drivers. Despite the fact that motorcyclists are massively outnumbered by cars, motorcycle fatalities made up an incredible 13% of all motor vehicle fatalities throughout 2016.

Motorcyclists often put themselves in danger by driving recklessly or neglecting to wear protective equipment. The use of a helmet can lower the risk of severe brain trauma by around 70%. Next time you ride your motorcycle, be sure to ride with a helmet, which can make the difference between life and death in a motorcycle accident.

Here in the state of California, motorcycle accidents are seemingly on the rise. In fact, annual motorcycle fatalities have more than doubled in the two decades since 1997. In 2016, more than 560 motorcyclists suffered fatal injuries throughout the state, and the number of statewide motorcycle fatalities jumped an alarming 11% in comparison to the previous year. In all, motorcycle deaths in California made up over 15% of all nationwide motorcycle fatalities in 2016. Next time you ride your motorcycle, ride with caution; it may just save your life.

Motorcycle accidents can be dangerous and incredibly traumatic. At Corsiglia McMahon & Allard, L.L.P., our team of personal injury attorneys understand just how difficult it can be to move past the injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident. If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is critically important to hire a legal team you can trust. To set up a free consultation with a Monterey County personal injury attorney, call us today at 408-298-7200.

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