Picturesque North Carolina is an ideal state for motorcycle pleasure-cruising. From the foothills to the beaches, highways, and country roads, all are ideal for hopping on your motorcycle and taking a pleasure cruise on the weekend. And, even though motorcyclists are tired of hearing the same concerns time-and-again, there are new motorcycle riders that need to hear the gospel of motorcycle safety.
Motorcycle Safety
If you are passionate about riding your bike, it’s important to be just as passionate about your own personal safety. The fact is that most motorcycle accidents happen because other drivers are not paying attention. And you do have to pay attention to not only your own riding, but also the other vehicles out on the road. So be safe out there!
There are many simple ways in which to minimize the risk to motorcyclists. Let’s start with the helmet. Helmets are required by law in North Carolina and greatly reduce the risk of head and neck injury, as well as trauma to the brain if an accident occurs. Here are some of the basics:
North Carolina State Helmet Requirements & Restrictions
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Required by Law |
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Not required |
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No restrictions |
Even though a helmet is required, there are still several potentially lethal dangers that motorcyclists face. According to the NC State Department of Motor Vehicles, in 2012:
- There were 4,269 total motorcycle accidents in NC, 161 of which were fatal.
- In addition, there were 3,472 serious injuries reported from motorcycle accidents
- Crashes, injuries, and fatalities tend to double, even triple during spring and fall months
So, be sure to wear your helmet to ensure head and neck safety, as well as to be legally responsible. Despite your best efforts, another danger to motorcyclists exists: other drivers not respecting fellow motorists on two or three wheels.
Preventing Dangers to Motorcyclists
- Make sure your bike is well-lit with functional head-and-tail lights, and that your clothing is bright and visible to other motorists
- Be sure that you maintain a safe distance from other motor vehicles
- Be careful when passing cars because motorcycles easily get lost in a car or truck’s blind spot
Motorcycle riders may be tired of hearing these tips over-and-over, but that is only because loved ones want them to be safe while enjoying the thrill of riding. Also, being a biker is not always a solo endeavor.
More Motorcycle Safety Tips:
- Purchase and wear the appropriate riding gear, as leather jackets and long, thick pants protect your skin from surface abrasions in case of an accident
- Abstain from the use of drugs and alcohol, as they are the primary factors in many motorcycle accidents
- Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained to keep it in top functioning condition, and
- Obey traffic laws at all times
- Be careful when riding in left lanes. Most bike accidents occur because another driver taking a left hand turn, does not see the biker.
Daggett Shuler Injury & Disability Lawyers represent clients throughout the state of North Carolina in motorcycle accidents, car accidents and other serious accident cases. Our team is dedicated to representing the rights of individuals injured by the negligent conduct of others.
At Daggett Shuler, you can always speak with an attorney for FREE, and if we take your case, it is on a no-win, no-fee basis. So call us and speak with an experienced professional for free. Call 1-800-815-5500 and we will provide the answers you seek.
You can depend on us.