Summer is the season of road trips. For motorcyclists, good weather means good opportunities to ride – especially outside of the Arizona heat! But increased traffic also increases your chances of being involved in a motorcycle accident. If you or a loved one is involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who understands the unique needs of riders.
Summer is a dangerous time for motorcyclists in Arizona:
- According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, Arizona was in the top twelve states for number of motorcycle fatalities in 2015.
- 60% of the Arizona motorcycle fatalities in 2015 occurred between May and September.
What Can I Do to Stay Safe?
- Always wear a helmet! Research consistently shows that helmets save lives, and that states with mandatory helmet laws consistently have fewer motorcycle fatalities that states without such laws. Wear a helmet, even when riding through states that do not require it.
- Stay visible. Motorcycles are smaller than passenger vehicles, and this makes them more difficult to see – especially at night or in inclement weather. Use reflective clothing and proper signaling to help other drivers see you.
- Don’t get distracted by technology. If your road trip is bringing you to an unfamiliar area, be sure to review your route ahead of time, so you aren’t distracted by navigation systems on the road. Motorcycle drivers must use greater physical control than drivers of cars or trucks. This makes smartphones and navigation systems even more dangerous to use for a motorcyclists.
- Make sure you have the proper skills and experience before you hit the road. There is a reason one must obtain a separate motorcycle operator’s license. This is only the first step, however. Continue logging hours on a variety of roads. Continue taking courses and learning about your motorcycle.
- Slow down! Speed is a factor in many motorcycle accidents. The best way to avoid a collision is to allow enough time to react to obstructions, traffic, and other road conditions.
- Use particular caution on weekends. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, about one third of the 2014 motorcycle crashes in Arizona occurred on Fridays and Saturdays.
- Participating in organizations such as the Arizona Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Foundation can help you stay up to date on current motorcycle safety practices. Increasing public awareness is also important, both to increase safety practices in other riders, and to make other drivers aware of motorcycles on the road.
Contact Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important to seek advice from an experienced attorney who is familiar with motorcycle accident cases. Schedule your free consultation with the Fite Law Group by calling (602) 368-1869, or sending an email to [email protected]. Our attorneys have the experience and skill necessary to address the unique needs of motorcycle riders, and our staff offers the personalized attention necessary to get the compensation you deserve.