Arizona Motorcycle Lawyer for Accidents at Motorcycle Rallies

Motorcycle rallies are an engaging way for motorcyclists from across the country to celebrate their passion for riding together. Rallies, such as Arizona Bike Week, feature live entertainment, vendor displays, outdoor concerts, and even beauty pageants. But, one unwelcome event is the rise in motorcycle accidents that also occur. Statistically, accident rates spike around large rallies, causing injury and death during a time meant for celebration. To avoid the tragic loss of friends or personal injury during motorcycle rallies, riders should be aware of safe operating techniques and potential risks associated with the gatherings.Increased Accident Rates and Rallies

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reviewed the motorcycle accident data surrounding Sturgis South Dakota’s “Rally and Races” event from 1995 to 2000. Rally and Races is a huge event that spans several days and hosts over 400,000 motorcyclists. Unfortunately, this huge influx of riders also caused a spike in motorcycle accidents and the mortality rate. The study found that over half the state’s reported motorcycle fatalities occurred during the month the rally was held. Over two thirds of those who died were over the age of 40, bucking the stereotype that young reckless riders are most at risk. The study also found most of the motorcyclists who died were not wearing helmets at the time of the crash. To avoid becoming one of these tragic statistics, motorcyclists enjoying rallies should continue to use protective gear and be aware of potential risks.

Risks at Rallies Impaired Drivers

Social drinking can be a prominent feature at rally events. Unfortunately, some drivers are not willing to give up the keys after they’ve had a few. Motorcyclists who drink and drive put themselves and others at tremendous risk. Operating a motorcycle requires precise timing, coordination and judgment; attempting to ride while drunk or buzzed invites disaster.  Impairment is one of the largest contributing factors to single vehicle motorcycle accidents. 

Of course, drunk drivers operating passenger vehicles far outnumber impaired motorcyclists.  Drunk drivers pose a tremendous threat to motorcyclists and the general public due to their decreased perception, increased reaction time, and poor critical thinking.  After rally events featuring drinking, be alert for signs of impaired drivers and know that they most likely will not see you in time to avoid an accident. Swerving, inappropriate speed, headlights turned off, and ignoring traffic signals are a few behaviors to watch out for to spot impaired drivers.

Group Riding

Interacting with large numbers of motorcycles may be a new experience for some motorcyclists. Proper group riding etiquette can help riders of all skill levels travel safely together and avoid collisions. Some tips to safe group travel are:

• Keep your group small and manageable. Split into subgroups if necessary.
• Know the members of the group and the common hand signals used to communicate.
• Maintain a two second following distance between riders and ride in stagger formation.
• Observe all traffic laws, e.g., do not roll through stop signs as a large group.
• Keep novice riders at the back of the group so the drag rider can monitor their performance and keep them safe.
• Do not allow inebriated riders to ride in your group.

Negligent Drivers

Sadly, more motorcyclists on the roads during rallies only increases the risk of an accident with a driver of a passenger vehicle.  Local drivers may not be aware of rally events, may be impatient to clear traffic congestion, or might “just not see you.” If you or a loved one is injured in a motorcycle accident by a negligent driver, you should seek medical attention and contact an attorney. An experienced Arizona motorcycle attorney can help you recover the assistance you need from those responsible.Contact an Arizona Motorcycle Lawyer

If you have been injured by a negligent driver at a motorcycle rally in Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale or elsewhere in Maricopa County, it is recommended that you contact an experienced Arizona motorcycle attorney to discuss your case. For more information on motorcycle accidents in Arizona, please visithttp://www.azmotorcycleaccidentlawyer.com/

Insurance Institute for highway Safety, Status Report Vol 37 No 7,  http://www.iihs.org/externaldata/srdata/docs/sr3707.pdf (August 2002).