There are more motorcycles on the road than ever before. Statistics as recent as 2013 report over 8 million motorcycles owned in the United States, and according to the United States Department of Transportation, motorcycle registrations in the United States have grown each of the past 10 years, showing a 75 percent increase overall. However, we also know that motorcycle accidents are more numerous and deadly than passenger car accidents. In fact, motorcyclists were about 26 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash per vehicle mile traveled, and five times more likely to be injured. That being the case, an urgent emphasis is placed on safety education and features.
In order to increase motorcycle safety, and help riders avoid the need to call a motorcycle accident lawyer, bike manufacturers are improving riding accessories and developing safer design for the bikes themselves. Here are a few of the latest innovations for safer motorcycling.
Anti-lock brakes
Similar to the technology used for other vehicles, engineers have been developing anti-lock brake systems for motorcycles. For some European bikes, anti-lock brakes are now mandatory and studies have shown improved safety with this feature.
Stability control
New developments in stability control systems use traction control and lean-angle data to balance the level of power or braking. Losing control on a turn is one of the biggest causes of motorcycle accidents so this is a high priority safety concern.
LED lighting
Besides making motorcycles more visible to other drivers, LED lighting also increases the range of vision for the driver. Other motorcycle gear is also now being outfitted with LED lighting to increase visibility of and for the driver.
Safer helmets
Even in places where wearing a helmet is not required, it is strongly advised that you do so. And with the latest developments in style and safety features, there are plenty to choose from, including some with GPS systems, built in cameras, and improved padding materials.
Airbag vests and jackets
Adapting the technology used in airbags for passenger vehicles, motorcycle clothing manufacturers are incorporating similar ideas into items such as vests, jackets, and helmets.
With these new technologies and features, motorcycle fatalities and injuries have decreased. A 2013 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study reports that motorcycle related fatalities reduced 6.4 percent from the preceding year, and injuries were down 5.4 percent. Still, despite our best efforts, motorcycle accidents happen.
If they do, it?s important to do a few things. First, get medical attention as soon as possible. Call the police. Take pictures, or have someone do it for you, and don?t repair your bike just yet. And find a motorcycle accident lawyer. A law firm that has a personal injury attorney that knows the common aspects of motorcycle injury cases.
If you have been the victim of a motorcycle accident, hire a motorcycle accident lawyer or personal injury attorney. You are very likely eligible to receive compensation that will offset your medical bills, loss of income, pain and suffering and other losses. Get facts about lawyers in your area and find someone with a strong track record of winning personal injury lawsuit settlements.
Not only should your motorcycle accident lawyer be experienced and successful, they should also be easy to talk to, quick to respond to your calls or emails, and respectful of your privacy. Be sure you feel comfortable with the attorney, and don?t be afraid to ask a lot of questions. Finally, be sure you understand and can afford the fee schedule and payment system. Most personal injury lawyers only get paid if you win, but other fees may apply, and not everyone works that way. Again, ask lots of questions and be sure you understand the answers!
In the meantime, check out the newest safety gear and start implementing it in your ride. It?s always better to be safe than sorry.