Motorcyclists relish riding in the open air. They live for the sense of freedom, excitement, and adventure that such riding brings. Whether cruising down PCH to enjoy the ocean view or taking a speedy ride on Ortega Highway, riding a motorcycle in Orange County can be memorable. However, riding also can be dangerous if a biker gets into a motorcycle crash, especially if the accident takes place on the busy freeways in Southern California.
Motorcycle accidents occur in astounding numbers. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that motorcycle-related fatalities have more than doubled in the last ten years. In 2008, an estimated 47% of motorcycle fatalities occurred in collisions with cars. Accounting for approximately 41% of motorcycle accident fatalities is when another vehicle turns left into a motorcycle.
Motorcycle accidents occur due to several factors relating to the operators of vehicles, including:
- Drivers not looking out for motorcycles before changing lanes
- Distracted driving
- Speeding and aggressive driving
- Drunk driving
Although the majority of fatalities from motorcycle accidents in O.C. involve a crash with a passenger vehicle due to the other driver’s negligence, motorcycle drivers also have been involved in single vehicle accidents due to the following:
- Slideouts from overbraking
- Aggressive driving in the rain or other harsh weather
- Speeding
- Drunk riding, preventing a biker from braking correctly to e, and avoid a collision
- Not wearing the proper helmet
Sadly, serious motorcycle accidents in Southern California often cause catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, paralysis, and even death. Wearing the proper safety helmet can help prevent serious injuries to the spine, head, and neck. It may also decrease a rider’s chance of fatality.
If you have been in a motorcycle accident in Southern California, then you have the right to a personal injury claim, especially if you are a victim of negligence. Motorcycle accidents happen in startling numbers, and the majority of motorcycle crashes are catastrophic due to the lack of protection riders receives from their bikes. If you have sustained a serious injury, then you need someone to help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact an experienced Southern California motorcycle accident attorney at the Law Office of John P. Burns today. Attorney John Burns will provide you with a free consultation and offer you legal options. Call (877) 320-1338 today, and also visit our website to request your copy of our FREE book, 9 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your California Vehicle Accident Case.