When approached with care and proper safety measures, riding a motorcycle can be an exciting and efficient way to travel. Unfortunately, accidents often happen when a rider loses control at excessive speeds, encounters hazardous road conditions, or when other motorists fail to share the road by neglecting to yield or respect a motorcyclist’s right-of-way. While riders can sometimes be at fault, many crashes are caused by negligent or inattentive drivers.
Safety measures in Modesto are aimed not only at protecting motorcyclists, but also at educating drivers on how to safely and respectfully coexist with them on the road. Even a seemingly minor collision can result in devastating injuries and costly damage for a motorcyclist, despite every reasonable precaution being taken. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, the skilled personal injury attorneys at Valero Law Group are ready to evaluate your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call today.
What Are the Primary Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
Riding a motorcycle can be a sound mode of transportation in Modesto, as long as safety precautions are taken to avoid accidents. However, sometimes drivers in traditional vehicles may get distracted on the road or not understand the laws surrounding motorcycles, causing a crash. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Turning in front of a motorcyclist who has the right-of-way
- Failing to yield to a motorcyclist when necessary
- Changing lanes without checking for bikers
- Not noticing a motorcyclist in a parking lot or at a stop sign
- Excessive speed
- Poor or unsafe weather or road conditions
Even if the motorcyclist partially caused the accident, they can still recover damages according to the pure comparative negligence rule in California (California Civil Code § 1714). This principle allows the plaintiff in a vehicular accident to sue for the percentage of damages attributable to the defendant, regardless of the plaintiff’s fault percentage. Hiring a motorcycle accident attorney from Valero Law Group can help an injured motorcyclist figure out their options when it comes to a lawsuit and potential damages.
Safety Tips and Laws for Motorcycle Riders
Wearing proper biking gear, knowledge of defensive driving techniques, and an understanding of the laws surrounding motorcycle riders can help ensure that the roads are safe for everyone. To prevent accidents, motorcyclists are encouraged to take the initiative to learn about and adhere to biking safety measures in Modesto. These can include:
- Buying and wearing safety gear, such as a properly fitting helmet, gloves, pants, jackets, and sturdy footwear
- Observing the roads and drivers surrounding them, checking for blind spots, watching road conditions, and implementing other defensive driving methods
- Keeping abreast of the state laws regarding motorcycle safety
- Knowing how to properly lane-split, sticking to speed limits, and driving in a straight line
- Minimizing distractions while on the road
- Ensuring motorcycles have proper safety gear
- Preventive maintenance on motorcycles
By paying attention to their surroundings, respecting the roads and other drivers, and implementing multiple precautions, motorcyclists can safely get to their destination. If a crash occurs despite taking these safety measures, it may be time to reach out to Valero Law Group for assistance.
Consult a Modesto Lawyer Familiar With Motorcycle Safety Precautions
If you have recently been in a crash despite taking safety measures to prevent motorcycle accidents in Modesto, working with an attorney who knows the laws pertaining to motorcycles can give you the confidence you need to file a claim. While taking precautions, wearing the proper gear, and operating your motorcycle defensively can go a long way in keeping you safe, accidents still happen.
The attorneys at Valero Law Group are skilled in personal injury law and know what to do after a motorcycle collision. They can guide you through your legal options, ensuring that you know and understand your rights as a motorcycle driver. Reach out today to get started.
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