According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 90,000 people are injured on motorcycles throughout the United States each year. Last year, 5,172 motorcyclists were killed in crashes, 73 of whom lost their lives on our Nevada roads.
Our Clark County personal injury attorneys understand motorcycle collisions cause life-changing injuries that leave our clients out of work and facing long-term medical care. We also know that the tragedy of a family losing a loved one while riding can be overwhelming.
At Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen, our Las Vegas, Nevada motorcycle injury attorneys have consistently and successfully represented motorcyclists who have been hurt in traffic collisions caused by the negligence of another, and are emphasizing the importance of motorcycle safety with five tips to help riders remain protected.
Tip One: Select a Motorcycle According to Your Personal Size and Experience.
Your height, weight, and overall riding ability should dictate the type of motorcycle you ride regularly. Riding a bike that is too big, or too powerful, can lead to losing control in traffic, which can lead to serious injuries.
Tip Two: Purchase and Wear Your Own Riding/Safety Gear.
Like the motorcycle itself, the gear you wear should fit only you to provide the most protection while riding.
In the State of Nevada, motorcyclists and passengers are required to wear helmets at all times while riding, and each rider or passenger’s helmet must meet standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
The NHTSA estimated that last year helmets saved 1,859 motorcyclists’ lives, and could have saved approximately 800 more if they had been worn by certain riders who were involved in deadly collisions.
Other recommended protective gear includes:
- Eye Protection
- Jackets
- Gloves
- Boots
- Pants
Tip Three: Inspect Your Motorcycle Often.
Before riding, inspect the motorcycle’s tires, brakes, throttle, and clutch to ensure they are functioning properly. Look for any signs of wear and tear that can be easily replaced, and check the mirrors and lights so you are able to see, and others are able to see you.
Tip Four: Practice Defensive Driving.
Most motorcycle collisions are caused by drivers who stated that did not see the motorcyclist before the crash occurred. While it is every driver’s responsibility to pay full attention to what’s happening on the road, it is clear that is not always the case.
When motorcyclists add defensive driving tactics to their ride, it can help save their lives.
These tactics can include:
- Wearing bright-colored clothing while riding
- Adding reflective tape to your motorcycle
- Using turn signals when merging or changing lanes
- Looking twice before exiting parking lots or garages
- Watching for turning vehicles
- Staying out of other driver’s blind spots
Tip Five: Obey All Motorcycle and Traffic Laws.
The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles provides a Class M license, which requires riders to pass both a written and skills test unless you complete a course certified by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation before applying for the license.
Whether you are a new rider or one who has been riding for decades, it is important to know each of the Nevada Motorcycle Laws, while actively following the rules of the road, which means never riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding, or reckless behavior.
Although we hope you will never need us, if you are hurt in a motorcycle collision, we can help you pursue the best financial outcome available for your unique case. Contact our Las Vegas, Nevada motorcycle injury attorneys at Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen at (702) 505-8115 today to learn how we can help.