Motorcycles are enthusiastically enjoyed by their drivers and passengers alike, and to their fans, there is nothing better than hitting the open road on a big bike. However, driving a motorcycle can be risky if the motorcyclist isn’t taking the proper precautions to ensure their safety on the road.
Unfortunately, every time you go out on your motorcycle, you risk a chance of a motorcycle collision. Georgia is home to a high number of motorcycle collisions.
Let’s go over some of the motorcycle collision statistics in Georgia and learn more about how you can keep safe while out on your bike.
MOTORCYCLE COLLISION STATISTICS IN THE STATE OF GEORGIA
More than 10% of all traffic fatalities in Georgia have been motorcyclists since the year 2007 according to the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety in Georgia. In 2016, an estimated 173 motorcyclists died as a result of a collision. This is especially harrowing because this number has increased by 26% since the year 2014 with 36 more fatalities.
The cause of this uptick in fatalities may be because the number of motorcyclists not wearing a helmet has increased steadily since 2013. In 2016 alone, there were an estimated 10 fatal accidents involving motorcyclists who were not wearing a helmet. This despite the fact that wearing a helmet while operating a motorcycle has been a law since the late 1960s.
The age of motorcyclists in Georgia fatality accidents are most commonly between 30-30 and 50-59. In 2016, there were 10 motorcyclist fatalities who were less than the age of 20, but 31 fatality accidents in motorcyclists over the age of 59.
HOW TO STAY SAFE WHILE DRIVING A MOTORCYCLE
One of the most crucial things motorcyclists need to do before hitting the road is to put on a properly fitted helmet that is Department of Transportation (DOT) certified. A proper helmet will have a thick polystyrene foam lining and sturdy chinstraps.
In addition to wearing a helmet, a motorcyclist should obey local traffic laws such as observing traffic lights, signs, speed limits, and lane markings. Always ride with the flow of traffic and leave plenty of room between you and motorists that are in front of you. Just as you would in a regular vehicle, look behind you and use your turn signal if you’re changing lanes. Be sure to drive defensively and ensure that other drivers on the road are aware that you are there.
If you or a loved one has had a motorcycle collision in Georgia that you believe was the fault of a negligent driver, you may have the right to compensation for your injuries or any lost wages. Call the Fry Legal Team today at 404-969-1284 to set up a legal consultation for more information about whether pursuing a lawsuit makes sense for you.
