The U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is reminding all drivers to look out for and share the road with motorcycle riders.
As weather gets warmer, many more motorcyclists are taking to the roads which is why the month of May is a great time to remind everyone to watch for motorcycles. Drivers should always:
- Allow a motorcycle the full width of a lane at all times
- Always signal when changing lanes or merging with traffic
- Check mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles when changing lanes or merging
- Always allow more distance between your vehicle and a motorcycle
- Always avoid driving while distracted or under the influence
In Tennessee the number of motorcycle fatalities has gone up and down for the past few years, however, in 2012 the number of deaths was nearly double the amount it was a decade prior. Although Tennessee has a universal helmet law, riders are still forgoing helmets and thus risking their lives should they be involved in a motorcycle accident.
The NHTSA suggests that riders obey traffic laws, use proper riding gear and never drive distracted or impaired. According to the NHTSA, alcohol continues to be a factor in motorcycle fatalities. Nearly one-third of all fatally injured motorcycle riders had a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher.
Safe riding practices, helmet usage and cooperation from all drivers can help prevent motorcycle accidents from happening.
Greg Coleman Law - Personal injury lawyers. Ph: (865) 247-0080.
