The warm weather brings out the native desire to relish the wide, open road. If you ride a motorcycle, you may be chomping at the bit to get out and feel the sun on your face as you explore a new season on your bike. But motorcyclists have particular concerns when it comes to safety on Mississippi roadways. In the event a serious accident occurs, a local personal injury attorney can help with the aftermath.
Dangers of Motorcycle Accidents
Across the country, over six million motorcycles are on the road. They constitute over one in ten of all highway fatalities in the country. Those devastating accidents are all too frequent, as studies show that crashes involving motorcycles have corresponding serious injuries or fatalities 80 percent of the time. The reasons are obvious: motorcycles simply do not provide the structural supports provided by automobiles. With no roof, door beams, seatbelts or airbags, motorcyclists are at serious risk in a collision.
Mississippi Motorcycle Crashes
The tragedy of motorcycle crashes has touched many Mississippi lives. Just a few recent incidents include:
- When a motorcycle with two riders on it was involved in a collision with a van in Southaven, the motorcycle burst into flames and killed both riders;
- A collision between a motorcycle and an eighteen-wheeler in Kiln left the motorcyclist dead;
- A motorcycle struck an SUV pulling out of a parking lot, killing the cyclist in Jackson.
Staying Safe on your Motorcycle
Experts recommend a number of things motorcyclists can do to ensure a safe ride:
- Stick with a bike that’s the right size for you. If it’s too big or has too much power, you may have trouble handling it safely;
- Wear a helmet. It’s the law in Mississippi, and it could save your life in a crash;
- Wear gloves, eyewear, and other protective clothing;
- Don’t try to pass stopped traffic by riding between lanes;
- Use signals;
- Increase visibility by keeping your headlight on and wearing bright, reflective clothing;
- Avoid drivers’ blind spots;
- Use turn signals;
- Keep a safe distance from other vehicles;
- Make sure your bike is in good operating condition;
- Avoid riding in inclement weather;
- Be hyper-aware of your surroundings: avoid riding your bike when drowsy or impaired;
- Pay attention to hazardous road surfaces such as gravel and oil;
- Anticipate problems and drive defensively;
- Follow traffic laws and speed limits.
Following an Accident
If you or a loved one is involved in a serious motorcycle crash, you will no doubt be focused on recovering from the physical and emotional trauma associated with that accident. Medical bills may start to accumulate, increasing the strain at an already difficult time. At the office of Derek L. Hall, PC, The Heavy Hitter our experienced legal team can help with the legal aspects of the collision. If it is found that another driver was reckless or negligent, we may be able to help you recover damages to cover costs associated with medical care and rehabilitation, lost wages, and other expenses. Contact our Jackson office today for a free, confidential consultation.
Resources:
- wkrg.com/news/two-killed-in-fiery-mississippi-motorcycle-crash/867800585
- usnews.com/news/best-states/mississippi/articles/2017-08-21/man-in-critical-condition-after-motorcycle-18-wheeler-crash
- msnewsnow.com/story/36315113/police-identify-motorcyclist-who-died-in-ridgeland-wreck
