California is the most populous state in the United States, and it is also home to the most motorcycle drivers in the country. Native Californians are drawn to the bike by the fuel efficiency and ease of maneuverability in famous troublesome traffic jams, and visiting motorcycle enthusiasts love the coastlines, deserts and other amazing natural features of the state.
Motorcycling comes with several obvious risks, but the most dangerous to health and safety for motorcyclists and others on the road alike is collisions with other vehicles. Even a minor scrape with a moving car or truck can cause serious injury, permanent disability or even death to the driver or passenger of a motorcycle.
Some specific dangers are easy enough for drivers and motorcyclists to avoid. Rear-ending — or being rear-ended by — a car or truck is one of the most common types of motorcycle collisions, often caused by sudden changes in speed on the road. Extra braking distance should be allowed around bikes to make sure they stay untouched by bumpers.
Another big problem is cars turning, especially left, into the path of unseen motorcycles. This also puts a vehicle in the path of a motorcyclist who may not see it in time to slow. This situation recently claimed the life of a motorcyclist in Roseville, where the bike crashed into the side of a car leaving a supermarket.
Victims of harmful motorcycle accidents may be able to claim restitution for medical expenses and other related costs if the causing driver was at fault. A personal injury attorney will be able to help claimants begin the path to being made whole.
Source: Gas2, “5 Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents,” Oct. 30, 2017
