Motorcycles have become a pretty popular way to get around in the country. In California alone, there are over 790,000 registered motorcycles. This number is set to increase as more people choose the convenience and the fun that comes with getting around on a motorcycle. But despite these increasing numbers, there are countless myths and misconceptions that float around not just about motorcyclists, but also the accidents they’re involved in.
Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a crash than normal car passengers. Some of these accidents are caused by the lack of awareness from other road users which is why we compiled and debunked five common myths about motorcycle accidents below:
Most people associate motorcycle riding with young, reckless punks doing it for the sake of thrill. They also believe that these young reckless riders are the reason behind the increasing number of motorcycle crashes. But this is far from true. The truth is, motorcycle enthusiasts come from a diverse array of backgrounds, and are not just young, reckless punks.
Also, if statistics are anything to go by, other road users are the predominant reason behind the increasing number of motorcycle crashes. Data compiled by HG.Org shows about ¾ of motorcycle crashes usually involve collisions with other motorists, mostly passenger vehicles. Most of these crashes occur because other motorists fail to detect and recognize motorcyclists in traffic.
Most people believe that in the event of an accident, a motorcyclist’s helmet increases the likelihood of a neck fracture because of the weight it puts on your head. Others believe that helmets make it difficult for the rider to see, hear, or detect danger.
Both beliefs are a myth.
Helmets have been proven as the single most effective way to reduce head and neck injuries resulting from motorcycle crashes. Also, helmets don’t block out the rider’s ability to see or hear danger. If anything, they do the opposite.
The helmet’s visor protects the rider’s eyes from wind and other debris allowing them to see the road ahead better. It also reduces wind noise so the motorcyclists can hear better while on the road. Additionally, by reducing wind and noise pressure, helmets have the added advantage of preventing rider fatigue. In other words, helmets are the easiest and most efficient way for motorcycle riders to stay safe on the road.
A majority of motorcycle crashes are usually serious and fatal, but minor crashes are also commonplace. When these minor crashes occur, most people will advise the rider to skip hiring an attorney because the process of settling such claims is simpler.
However, regardless of how minor the crash was, every rider deserves to get their full compensation. If you skip hiring a motorcycle accident attorney and choose to settle on your own, there’s a high chance you will not get the fair amount.
But when you hire an attorney, they’ll advise you on the compensation you deserve, and guide you on how to go about the claims process.
Laying it down, or intentionally falling over sideways in the event of a crash is a popular trick used by actors in action movies. People believe that laying it down can prevent motorcycle crash injuries.
However, this trick only works in movies.
As with any other accidents, motorcycle crashes happen too fast, and too unexpectedly that the rider usually has no time to think about intentionally falling over. Besides, if a rider has the time to lay down, then holding their breaks or reducing their speed would be a more sensible thing to do because rubber stops better and faster than the plastic or metallic parts of a motorcycle.
Need a motorcycle accident attorney in California? Contact RS Law Offices today for an obligation-free consultation.
blogs
Personal Injury Lawsuits: What You Need to Know and how RS Law Office Can Help
Life is pretty unpredictable. One minute you’re healthy and bubbly, the next one you are nursing an injury due to someone else’s negligence. But the fact that life is unpredictable does not in any way reduce the pain and confusion that may arise when you find yourself in harm’s way due to another person’s negligence. […]
How Truck Accidents are Different from Car Crashes
Even though all types of auto accident are dangerous and have the potential to cause life-altering injuries, truck accidents are nearly, if not always catastrophic or fatal. Unfortunately, they’re becoming quite common. According to the Truck Safety Coalition, about 5,000 people died in truck crashes last year, marking a 46% increase in truck crash deaths […]
Top 4 Personal Injury Myths
Personal injury cases are more rampant than you can ever imagine. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, about 31 million of the injuries that occur every year often call for medical care. Considering their prevalence, it comes as no surprise that there are so many myths and misconceptions surrounding personal injury. Think you got […]
Rearview Cameras and You
While it was in 2018 that the rearview camera requirement went into effect on all new vehicles, the whole debate started in 2008. That was the year Congress passed a law for automakers to take steps to increase visibility. The debate was prompted by a horrible tragedy where a father accidentally backed over his infant […]
What to Look for When Hiring an Attorney
In Arizona and California, two big car cultures on the grow, you’re statistically more likely to be involved in some sort of motor vehicle accident or have some other legal concerns surrounding your automobile. Other injuries, like dog bites and slip and falls, are all-too common, and can be difficult to navigate with some kind […]
Accidents with the Uninsured
Let’s say the worst happens and you find yourself in a serious car accident. Even if everything after the crash goes according to plan, it is a difficult and confusing process. But if you add to all this the fact that the other person is not insured, you could be left facing an absolute nightmare. […]
Hotels and Personal Injuries
Everyone is looking to travel right about now. Summer is getting into full swing, and whether you are looking to see a distant land or reacquaint yourself with familiar faces, you’re probably planning your next big adventure, too. Besides the normal precautions, like ensuring home security while you’re away, or booking some travel insurance, you […]
Bicycle Safety Tips
Bicycling might be the true essence of freedom in transportation. No dependence on anyone to get around except yourself, no motor to make you drive out of control, and you can park your bike just about anywhere. Still, safety while riding a bicycle is just as important as with any other mode of transportation, especially […]
Slip and Fall Injuries in Arizona and California
In desert climates especially, some property managers have a tendency to not count on inclement weather when it comes to the upkeep of their properties. This means that, over time, things like rain and seismic shifts can slowly wear away at all kinds of surfaces, making them unsafe to walk on. While property managers may […]
Defensive Driving During a Summer of Distracted Drivers
With warm weather, we’re all trying to relax as best we can, wherever we can. Unfortunately, some people can take this a little too far, and find themselves incredibly distracted when in the driver’s seat. Not only that, but with heat exhaustion a possibility, some drivers could be making even worse decisions. It’s your job […]
contact form
