With the warmer weather comes increased ridership of motorcycles throughout the Atlanta area and the state of Georgia. The motorcycle accident team of Akin & Tate reminds everyone that the National Safety Council has declared May to be Motorcycle Safety Month. Please be alert, and please share the road with motorcyclists.
In 2017 there were over 89,000 motorcycle accidents with injuries in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists were nearly 29 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash per vehicle miles traveled.
Driver error is a factor
The primary reason for motorcycle accidents in Atlanta was driver error, particularly when combined with the sleek design of motorcycles that makes them less visible to other drivers and pedestrians. It is the obligation of all drivers to be aware of their surroundings and check blind spots, particularly when making lane changes. Motorcyclists are at particular risk of a driver error involving lane changes due to lower visibility of the frame of a motorcycle.
Another contributing factor to motorcycle accident injuries and fatalities is distracted driving on the part of automobile and truck drivers. Any activity diverting attention from driving, including texting, is a distraction. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for five seconds. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), at 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.
How you an observe #MotorcycleSafetyAwarenessMonth
- Be alert to riders on the road.
- Take your time, signal, and check your mirrors.
- Leave enough distance between your vehicle and the rider in front of you.
- Be aware of road hazards and dangerous weather conditions.
- Be safe. Be seen.
Motorcycle Accident – Call Akin & Tate
If you have suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of others, call the motorcycle accident attorneys at Akin & Tate. You could be entitled to a monetary award.
Free case review.
Our personal injury attorneys at Akin & Tate have extensive experience pursuing negligence claims involving motorcycle accidents. We will review your case and advise you on your right to seek compensation for your injuries.
No fee unless you win.
We work on a contingency fee basis. You owe nothing unless we obtain a favorable settlement or judgment on your behalf.
Motorcycle accident questions?
Our motorcycle accident legal team has answers.