Top 10 hazards to Washington motorcyclists

Motorcyclists typically understand that they are more prone to injury in an accident than they would be in a car or truck. As a result, many riders pay close attention to their safety while on the road.

According to statistics of fatal motorcycle accidents, there are fewer collisions per year than regular automobiles, but the rate of motorcyclist death is much higher. Motorcycles create unique vulnerabilities in addition to average roadway risks. The main dangers to motorcyclists can fit into three categories: their own actions, the actions of other drivers and road conditions.

Motorcycle riders can avoid accidents by avoiding bad decisions, including:

• Not wearing protective gear, including a helmet
• Riding without a valid license
• Riding while drunk or under the influence of drugs
• Speeding

However, they must also stay aware of factors outside of their control, such as:

• Road debris, particularly in construction zones
• Inclement weather, which can make the road slippery as well as hinder visibility

Despite a rider’s best efforts to remain alert and responsible, other drivers might not feel the need to hold traffic safety in high regard. Many current sets of crash data mainly collect details of the motorcyclists’ actions, but not every crash is their fault.

Other drivers pose a risk to motorcyclists by:

• Failing to check their blind spots before changing lanes
• Driving while impaired or distracted
• Speeding
• Acting on road rage or driving too close to the motorcycle

In comparison to the physical destruction of a motorcycle crash, one might assume that other drivers would take riders’ safety into consideration at all times. Victims of this type of accident, however, may likely believe otherwise.

A motorcycle accident can be extremely tragic for the rider and their family. Although fighting for compensation cannot prevent injuries after the fact, it may be a vital part of recovery.