As the wet, dreary weather of spring gives way to the dry, sunshine-y weather of summer, more and more motorcyclists are taking to Oklahoma roads. While there is nothing wrong with motorcycling, motorcycle operators and vehicle operators alike need to be aware of the very real dangers of the activity. Motorcycle Awareness Month strives to raise awareness on the matter.
Oklahoma Crash Statistics
Every year in Oklahoma, thousands of motorcycle operators sustain reportable injuries in accidents on state or county roads. Because of the small, unprotected nature of a motorcycle, many of those accidents result in severe, life-altering, or even fatal injuries. Below are a few motorcycle crash statistics worth noting:
● In 2017, 1,435 motorcyclists sustained injuries in motorcycle accidents;
● Of those, 89 were fatal, 330 were incapacitating, and 521 were non-incapacitating;
● 589 motorcycle accidents occurred on city streets;
● Interstate highways saw the second most number of motorcycle accidents, at 169 accidents;
● June and September saw the most number of motorcycle accidents;
● The majority of motorcycle crashes occur on Saturday, with Sunday seeing the second most crashes;
● The majority of motorcycle crashes occurred between 3 pm and 7 pm; and
● Unsafe speed was the number one contributing factor in injury motorcycle crashes and the second greatest contributing factor in fatal crashes.
It is important to understand how and where motorcycle accidents occur, as understanding the nature of motorcycle crashes can better help authorities, motorcyclists, and drivers prevent them.
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SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYMotorcycle Safety Tips
Motorcycle operators must utilize a unique skill set while still abiding by the standard rules of the road. Ongoing education and basic common sense also go a long way toward preventing accidents and fatalities. Some basic tips all motorcycle operators should know include the following:
● Always wear a helmet;
● Wear appropriate gear;
● Abide by the rules of the road;
● Ride defensively;
● Routinely hone your skills via motorcycle classes;
● Ride sober and when you are fully alert; and
● Make sure your bike is fit to ride.
You should also keep an eye on the weather conditions before you head out. If the weather turns nasty suddenly and when you are out and about, as it is apt to do in Oklahoma, pull over to the side of the road or make a pitstop until the weather clears.
Drivers can do their duty to keep motorcyclists safe, as well. Operators of passenger vehicles should always check their blind spots before making any maneuvers, such as switching lanes or making turns, and use their turn signals to indicate intent. They should also slow down when approaching a motorcycle and refrain from tailgating. Like motorcyclists, vehicle operators should also refrain from drinking and driving or drowsy driving.
What to do if Involved in an Accident
If you were involved in a motorcycle accident in Oklahoma, reach out to the motorcycle accident attorneys at BDIW Law as soon as you are able. We will assess the circumstances leading up to the accident, evaluate your claim, and help youpursue the compensation you need to recover in comfort. Contact our law firm today to learn more.
