Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month Is Here, but Do Drivers Know?
As California and all states across the country begin celebrating the unofficial kickoff to summer; Memorial Day weekend, with the openings of pools, trips to the beach, ice cream truck music, and the smells of BBQs filling the air, it also signals the return of millions of motorcyclists to US roads.
According to the National Institute for Highway Safety, there are 8.3 million registered motorcyclists in the United States. For many, the warmer weather means uncovering your bike and heading out on road trips, which is why May is dedicated as “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.”
Motorcycle ownership in America has grown substantially since the start of the 2000s. In 2002 California had 409,170 on-road motorcycles registered, and the number more than doubled to 952,977 by 2021. Consequently, it is more important than ever to be aware of motorcycle laws and recommendations for safely sharing the road with all motor vehicles.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP), in particular, is encouraging public awareness and education on sharing the road and roadway safety in an endeavor to lower the volume of collisions involving motorcyclists. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety statistics, roughly 500 motorcyclists are killed annually in California. Over 85% of motorcyclists involved in an accident end up injured or dead.
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists of California
The California Department of Motor Vehicles offers the following tips for motorcyclists on how to maintain safety on the road:
Visibility is key: To be seen on the road, motorcycle riders should wear bright or reflective clothing. Ensure that your signals, headlights, running lights, and brake lights are functioning correctly.
Keep Ample Distance: Motorcyclists should maintain enough space whenever they follow, are followed, lane split, pass, or are passed to ensure they can successfully maneuver and brake.
Staying Alert: Cyclers should be aware of traffic approaching from behind and vehicles in front of them and stay alert to their surroundings (as should all drivers).
Observe your route: As with all drivers, motorcycle riders should keep their eyes peeled at least ten to fifteen seconds ahead. Doing so helps evaluate any potential dangers, assess for a slowdown, and plan alternate routes or necessary lane changes and lane sharing.
Adaptability and Action Plans: Keeping alert and knowing the proper techniques to avoid collisions is vital. Motorcyclists in California must train and complete a safety course when applying for their licenses.
Additional Tips from the DMV
Monitor your speed – motorcycle accidents are dangerous and prone to severe injury or fatality.
Others Can’t See You – Drive under the assumption that other motorists cannot see you.
Dangers of Blind Spots – Don’t get caught in the blind spots of other vehicles, even more so with trucks.
Is “Lane Splitting” Allowed on California Roadways?
Although motorcyclists have the same obligations and rights as other drivers, the laws of California do not prohibit them from sharing lanes or “lane splitting,” as it is commonly called, or passing other vehicles. Although, intentionally blocking or impeding a motorcyclist in a way that could cause the rider harm is illegal. Reckless driving, speeding, and weaving around and through traffic by motorcyclists are not allowed and endangers the lives of all drivers. A balance and mutual respect must exist on all California roadways to ensure everyone safely gets to and from home. However, this is not always the case.
Do Motorcyclists Have to Wear Protective Gear?
California law requires motorcyclists to wear a helmet compliant with US Department of Transportation requirements when riding a motorcycle. Helmets
DVM-recommended riding attire (helmets, again, are mandatory) includes:
- Durable jackets.
- Long pants.
- Over-the-ankle boots (or closed-toe shoes).
- Riding gloves to stabilize the gripping of handlebars.
When do the majority of California Motorcycle Collisions Occur?
According to California Highway Patrol statistics and reports, the summer months (June, July, and August) are the peak of motorcycle-related accidents, injuries, and fatalities. The increase is potentially due to the influx of out-of-state tourists. Regardless, it is critical to ride safely and as a driver of other vehicles, be mindful of motorcyclists, share the road, and not take out traffic frustrations on motorcyclists.
If you have been in a motorcycle accident and wish to file a claim and seek compensation, it is wise to consult with a proficient Costa Mesa and Orange County Personal Injury and Auto Collision Attorney.
Motorcycle Crashes and Related Injury
Although May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, accidents occur all year long. If you or your loved one has been injured in a motorcycle-related collision, you may seek compensation for your injury and additional damages.
The Hicks Law Firm offers abundant experience and compassion and will fight on your behalf for complete compensation and justice. Contact our offices for a complimentary consultation with one of our skilled and dedicated attorneys.
Aaron Hicks is a civil trial attorney and founder of Hicks Law Firm, based in Orange County with offices in San Diego and Tennessee. His practice includes representing plaintiffs in personal injury cases including motor vehicle accidents, premises liability, dog bites and wrongful death. Mr. Hicks is and AV Rated attorney, Super Lawyer and is currently on the Board of Directors of the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association where he serves as 1st Vice President.
