Each year, between 400-600 motorcycle riders die on California roads. Thousands more are injured in crashes in any given month. Given that California has more than 800,000 registered motorcycles (far more than any other state in the nation), these crash statistics may appear relatively insignificant. The truth, though, is that not a single one of the riders affected by an injurious crash is merely a statistic.
You should never underestimate the impact an accident can have on both the victim and their loved ones, even when the accident seems to have been minor. In addition to causing physical injuries, accidents can also induce severe psychological and emotional suffering.
In addition to the more than 5,000 bikers and motorcyclists who suffer fatal injuries in crashes every year in the U.S., another 80,000+ motorcycle riders suffer non-fatal injuries that are serious enough to warrant emergency medical attention. Many of these non-fatal accidents are temporarily or permanently life-changing.
Motorcyclists face many dangers when on the road. One significant threat to their safety is other drivers. Unfortunately, if you are riding a motorcycle, you do not even need to be in a collision with another car for another road user to cause you injuries. Even if you are a cautious, alert, and skilled rider, you might need to take extreme measures to avoid a wreck.
Now that summer is officially in full swing, it’s time to get your motorcycle ready for those long cruises. For many Californians, taking care of their bike and riding with friends and family is a favorite pastime, especially during the warm summer months. However, it is important to know basic motorcycle safety before you head off on your biking adventures.
Riding a motorcycle may be easier to maneuver on busy streets, and it may be a cheaper alternative when it comes to gas. But it also comes with risks. Unlike cars, motorcycles do not provide riders and their passengers the safety of seatbelts, airbags, or even metal casing (doors and roofs). When you get into an accident while riding a motorcycle, the lack of these safety features can cause serious or even fatal injuries. Road rash is the most common type of injury in a motorcycle accident.
