Nice weather means more motorcycle riders on the roads. More motorcycle riding means an increase in motorcycle accidents.
According to the Nevada Department of Public Safety and Transportation, one in six Nevada traffic fatalities in 2017 was a motorcycle rider. The department noted that motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in traffic accidents than car occupants.
Motorcycle Injuries and Deaths are Preventable
Motorcycle injuries and deaths can be prevented. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), wearing a helmet saved an estimated 1,859 lives in 2016 across the country and another 802 could have been saved had they been wearing a helmet. What can be done to reduce the chances of motorcycle crashes and deaths?
For a free legal consultation, call (702) 857-6000
How to Stay Safe on a Motorcycle
There are many things that can be done to decrease the incidence of motorcycle fatalities:
- Obey traffic laws – If you’re riding a motorcycle, you should be sure to obey all traffic laws.
- Wear protective gear – Nevada law requires motorcycle riders to wear a Department of Transportation-compliant motorcycle helmet with eye protection (glasses, goggles, or face shield). A DOT-compliant helmet has a protective inner lining that is approximately one inch thick and will have a DOT sticker on the outside. This type of helmet reduces the chance of head injuries in the event of a crash. While not required by law, it is also a good idea to wear protective gear on the body such as body armor or a kevlar or leather jacket.
- Take a motorcycle skills course – Nevada law requires motorcycle riders to hold a valid motorcycle driver’s license before riding on public streets. A Class M license can be earned by taking an approved motorcycle safety class or through a test at the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles. Nevada also transfers motorcycle endorsements and Class M licenses from most states. If you do not have the skills required to pass the DMV written and skills test, you should complete a course that is certified by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Taking a skills course is a good idea even if you can pass the skills test. The course teaches safe riding techniques and increases the graduates’ riding skill levels.
Experienced Las Vegas Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
If you or a family member has been involved in a motorcycle accident and another party was responsible, you may have a valid personal injury claim and should seek legal advice. Contact Anthem Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation at (702) 857-6000.
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