According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, fatal motorcycle accidents in California are on the rise again. While California had previously experienced a decline in deaths related to motorcycle accidents, the agency reports, new research regarding motorcycle accidents in 2011 indicates deaths have increased once again.
Because California motorcycle accidents can be so deadly, we caution Orange County riders and drivers to take extra caution on the roads. Our Orange county accident lawyers offer the following motorcycle safety tips for both riders and drivers:
- Never assume a motorcycle rider can maneuver out of the way. Although motorcycles are small and are known for their maneuverability, riders and drivers should never assume a rider can get out of the way. Better maneuverability is no reason to ignore basic safety, especially in bad weather or at high speeds.
- Keep your eyes open. One of the easiest and most effective ways to avoid an Orange County motorcycle accident simply is to keep your eyes open. Drivers should watch carefully for motorcycles, which are easy to miss due to their small size. Motorcyclists also should watch for nearby cars; never assume a driver can see you.
- Bad weather means taking extra caution. If roadways are wet or foggy, it can reduce visibility and make motorcycles difficult to see. Additionally, wet roads can increase the amount of time it takes for both riders and drivers to come to a stop, so it is worth leaving extra room when weather is bad.
At Russell & Lazarus, our Orange County accident lawyers understand the emotional and physical difficulties that can follow a motorcycle accident, and we are here to help. Contact us today at (949) 851-0222 for a free case evaluation, or simply fill out the confidential online contact form on this page to learn more.