According to data provided by the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), 1,828 motorcycles were involved in accidents in the state in 2016. Of those, 1,297 people were injured, and 114 suffered fatal injuries. Most motorcycle accidents are preventable. Read below to learn more motorcycle safety tips that can help prevent serious accidents on Alabama roads.
If you were involved in a motorcycle accident, you are likely facing serious injuries that require medical treatment and significant time off work. It can be difficult to navigate a personal injury claim while you try to heal. Allow a motorcycle accident lawyer from Belt, Bruner, & Barnett P.C. to help. Call us today at (205) 933-1500, or reach out online to schedule a free and confidential consultation of your case.
Safety Advice for Alabama Motorcyclists
When you’re on a motorcycle, it’s important to drive defensively and remember the following tips:
Be careful while turning.
Motorcycles typically have two wheels, which can make them somewhat unstable. This is particularly true on roads that are wet or icy. Turning can be especially difficult on dirt roads or streets that have pieces of loose gravel. Motorcycle drivers should be aware of their surroundings and try to avoid sharp turns at high speeds.
Know the rules of the road at intersections.
Many crashes occur at intersections with other vehicles. Cars often fail to see motorcycles or don’t give them right-of-way. Thus, motorcycle drivers should use caution while navigating through intersections. Motorcycles should follow the same rules as other drivers, including that the person who arrives at the intersection first has the right-of-way. By driving carefully and remaining aware of your surroundings as you travel through intersections, you can likely avoid an accident.
Drive carefully at dawn and dusk.
It can be difficult for other vehicles to see motorcycles at dawn and dusk because of low light conditions. To prevent accidents, always wear reflective clothing and use your headlights. Be aware of where all other vehicles are around you, and avoid driving too close to another car.
Wear protective gear.
Motorcycles provide very little protection to riders and passengers. However, there is protective clothing that can help during an accident. Alabama requires everyone who is operating or riding on a motorcycle to wear a helmet. You should also wear a padded jacket and protective shoes. Although protective clothing will not prevent an accident, it can help protect you if you are in a crash.
Properly maintain your motorcycle.
Many motorcycle crashes are caused by vehicles that are not properly maintained. You should make sure your motorcycle is in proper working order before heading out on the road. This includes checking tire pressure, making sure all lights work, and ensuring that brakes and other essential parts are in good condition.
Call a Motorcycle Accident Attorney for Help After a Crash
A motorcycle accident attorney can help you after a crash on Alabama roads. It can be difficult to determine who is at fault, but with an investigation and understanding of state motorcycle laws, you can hold the person who caused your wreck responsible for your losses. You may be able to obtain compensation for the following:
- Past, present, and future medical bills
- Lost wages and loss of earning potential
- Physical pain
- Mental anguish
- Physical impairment
- Disfigurement
- Loss of quality of life
- Property loss or damage
If you were careful and adhered to these motorcycle safety tips, but someone else was negligent and caused your accident, then you deserve to obtain compensation. A motorcycle attorney can review your specific situation and evaluate your claim.
If you are involved in a motorcycle crash and need help, contact a skilled attorney at Belt, Bruner, & Barnett P.C. right away. We have worked with many clients who were seriously injured in a motorcycle crash. We understand the challenges you are facing. Contact us today at (205) 933-1500 for a free evaluation.
