We are about halfway through 2019 and there have been several fatal car accidents in Las Vegas and the greater Nevada area. One such tragedy occurred late one Sunday evening in April, when a motorcyclist was traveling northbound on Decatur approaching its intersection with Oakey. A Ford Mustang traveling in the opposite direction on Decatur made a left onto Oakey right into the path of the motorcyclist. The motorcycle had a rider and passenger on it, and when it hit the right front of the Mustang, the riders were thrown off the bike. The driver of the motorcycle was killed immediately and the passenger was taken to the hospital in critical condition. The driver of the Mustang suffered non-life-threatening injuries. While Nevada law enforcement did not immediately believe that either driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they noted that speed played a factor in the crash.
Intersections More Dangerous to Motorcyclists
Unfortunately, motorcyclists are at a greater risk of serious injury and death when on America’s roads. Las Vegas and the rest of Nevada is no exception to this tragic statistic. Moreover, it studies show that 70% of motorcycle accidents happen at an intersection. Whether the cause is speeding, running a red light, failing to yield the right of way when turning, or driving under the influence, motorcyclists and their passengers need to be extremely aware of their surroundings. Below are some tips for motorcycle drivers and riders:
- Educate yourself with a training course: if you are driving a motorcycle or are a passenger on one, go ahead and find yourself the closest Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course in your geographical area. The leading national organization on motorcycle safety, the MSF has courses for all levels of motorcyclists – beginner to advanced. Some dealerships offer training as part of a motorcycle purchase. Moreover, completion of an MSF course can lower your insurance rates and give credit toward your motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license
- Always drive defensively: a motorcycle is by its very nature more dangerous than a passenger vehicle. This is because it offers virtually no protection in the event of a crash. In order to stay safe on your motorcycle make sure you stay out of blind spots for both vehicles and trucks. Typically, drivers cannot hear or see you particularly if they are distracted behind the wheel. Accept that even if you are in the right you will get the short end of the deal in the event of a crash.
- Wear safety gear at all times: statistics show that motorcyclists and their riders who do not wear safety helmets are at 40 times the risk of suffering a fatal head injury and three times more likely to have a traumatic brain injury than other riders who do wear helmets. Safety gear today, including helmets, are light and comfortable – giving you and your riders little to no excuse for not wearing them.
Personal Injury Help in Nevada
The skilled Las Vegas personal injury attorneys at H&P Law have years of experience representing the injured across the state of Nevada. Contact us today for your initial case evaluation.
(image courtesy of Firman Kholik)
