Serving Victims Of Motorcycle Accidents Caused By Inexperienced Riders
Even though motorcycle riding is extremely popular in California, it can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced riders. While experienced motorcycle riders can better handle unanticipated circumstances –sharp turns, bad weather, road and traffic conditions — inexperienced motorcycle riders are at a greater risk of being involved in accidents. If you have been involved in an inexperienced motorcycle rider accident, it is essential to have an adept attorney on your side.
J&Y Law routinely handles all types of motorcycle accident claims in Los Angeles and throughout Northern and Southern California. Despite the public’s bias against motorcycle riders, we have a proven track record of helping our clients obtain meaningful compensation.
Causes of Inexperienced Motorcycle Ride Accidents
A number of studies have shown that motorcycle riders are at a greater risk of an accident in their first year of riding. Additionally, more than half of the motorcycle accidents involved riders with less than five months of experience; also, riders between the ages of 16 and 24 are more likely to have accidents.
Inexperienced motorcycle rider accidents can occur when a new motorcyclist is unable to assess the risks of road conditions. Moreover, inexperienced motorcycle riders may be unable to respond to sudden events or handle rough road conditions Finally, some new riders also lack the skills and techniques necessary to safely operate a motorcycle. All of these factors contribute to inexperienced motorcycle rider accidents.
The surest way for new motorcycle riders to avoid accidents is to pay strict attention to road conditions. New riders must remain alert to hazardous conditions and react to obstructions that suddenly appear on the road such as fallen tree limbs, debris, and animals. Additionally, inexperienced motorcycle riders should ride slowly and cautiously on poorly designed roads.
Safety Tips for Inexperienced Motorcycle Riders
In California, all motorcyclists under the age of 21 must complete a rider education course through a state-authorized training center. Nonetheless, inexperienced riders remain at risk of being involved in motorcycle accidents. There are a number of ways that new motorcycle riders can avoid accidents and injuries, including:
- Choose the Right Bike — New riders may be tempted to buy the biggest bike without having the experience to handle every motorcycle. It is crucial for new riders to choose a motorcycle they can handle.
- Pre-ride Inspections — Before each ride, check the tires, the lights, fuel level, fluid levels, brakes, etc. A defect that goes unrepaired can cause a motorcycle accident.
Wear the Right Gear — Always wear proper safety gear, including a helmet (required by California law), a reflective vest, motorcycle boots, gloves and protective eyewear. - Ride Defensively — Be aware that motor vehicle drivers may not see you, and be alert for drivers who do not slow down behind you or who weave in and out of lanes. Allow enough stopping distance for you to safely respond to obstacles on the road.
- Obey Rules of the road — Never ride a motorcycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol (almost half of the fatal motorcycle accidents involve alcohol), and follow the rules of the road — obey traffic laws and posted speed limits do not weave in and out of traffic, Be Aware of Your Surroundings — A leading cause of motorcycle accidents is another driver making a left-hand turn, often because the driver did not see the motorcycle. While all drivers have a duty to avoid causing injuries to others, motorcycle riders should be especially aware of their surroundings at all times since their vehicles are smaller and less visible than others on the road.
- Avoid Hazardous Conditions — Inexperienced motorcyclists should avoid riding in bad weather and at night when visibility is reduced. New riders should go easy on the brakes and throttle, and anticipate turns by slowing down.
- Practice — Learning how to ride a motorcycle safely — knowing how to take turns, respond to sudden events, handle rough roads, and avoid hazards, takes practice
Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident that was not your fault, J&Y Law can help. We have decades of experience representing motorcycle accident victims in Northern and Southern California. We will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident in order to determine the other party’s liability. Did you know that three-quarters of motorcycle accidents involve collisions with other vehicles – usually passenger cars? In some cases, the accident may have been caused by defects in the road, such as a pothole or debris, in which case the city, county or state may be held responsible.
At J&Y Law, all motorcycle accident cases are handled on a contingency basis. This means you will only pay attorneys’ fees if your claim is successful. Above all, we are dedicated to fighting for the rights of our clients, and keeping the roads and highways safe for motorcyclists. Call our office today or complete the contact form on our website to set up a free consultation.