Cutting Your Commuting Costs? Consider Motorcycle Safety

With gas prices at record highs, many commuters are looking for ways to cut their commuting costs. One alternative being explored by many commuters is the use of fuel-efficient motorcycles to get around town. The appeal of two wheels is not surprising, given that motorcycles get an average 56 miles per gallon, however the sudden surge in cycle popularity has many worrying that an increase in motorcycle accidents and fatalities will soon follow.

Older Riders, Beware

Motorcycle ridership is at all all-time high, with motorcycle sales reaching unexpected levels. What is worrying safety experts is the increase in accidents that follows an uptick in motorcycle ridership, and surprisingly, an increase in motorcycle fatalities for Americans over the age of 40. Right now, riders over 40 account for about half of all motorcycle fatalities each year, while fatalities among younger riders have actually gone down.

One theory for this shift is that older riders are more likely to over-estimate their ability on a motorcycle. They may have ridden when they were younger, and they may rationalize that they’re just as good as they used to be. Unfortunately, what many fail to take into consideration is that motorcycles have changed a great deal over the years, there is more traffic on the roads these days which makes riding more hazardous, and older bodies are less likely to react quickly or sustain trauma as well as younger bodies. Experts urge older riders to take motorcycle safety seriously, and enroll in a safety course – in addition to taking it easy and remembering that they aren’t teenagers any more.

Cliché but True – Speed Kills

If you’ve recently found a passion for motorcycle riding, you may be enjoying pushing the limits of your bike as you cruise the open highways. But while you’re relishing your newfound freedom, keep an eye on the speedometer. Nearly 40% of all fatal motorcycle accidents can be attributed to excessive speed, and speed kills more motorcycle riders than drugs or alcohol. And keep in mind that even if you survive a crash that you caused by speeding, you could be seriously injured and left facing charges like negligent driving.

Back to Basics

If you drive a car, what are safety experts always nagging you about? That’s right, wearing your seatbelt – every time you get in the car. Motorcycle riders have a similar safety recommendation – wear your helmet every time you get on your bike. Year in and year out, the statistics prove that helmet use can save your life and protect from very serious head trauma and brain injury. It isn’t worth taking a chance on your future and your health, so before you fire up that shiny new motorbike, make sure you strap on your helmet – then enjoy the ride!

Even if you follow every safety tip out there, accidents can still happen. If you’re a Texan who has been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, then you need an attorney who has experience with this type of litigation. Please contact Vujasinovic & Beckcom today and find out how we can help you get the compensation you need to recover.

Vujasinovic & Beckcom P.L.L.C

1001 Texas Avenue, Suite 1020

Houston, TX 77002

Phone: 713.224.7800

Fax: 713.224.7801

Vujasinovic & Beckcom P.L.L.C
1001 Texas Avenue, Suite 1020
Houston, TX 77002

Phone: 713.224.7800
Fax: 713.224.7801