The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration writes that helmets are 37% effective in preventing fatalities in an accident for the driver and 41% for the passenger.  In 2008, 42% of the fatally injured motorcyclists in the country were not wearing helmets.  It is estimated that 822 of those deaths would have been prevented if the riders had been wearing helmets.

The first tip in motorcycle safety is wearing a helmet.  By wearing a full face motorcycle helmet, not an open face or minimal helmet, the rider is offered more protection.  For those helmet free riders who complain that helmets are bulky and uncomfortable, riders can choose from many styles of helmets today. The selection varies from helmets in classic cool black to helmets with colorful racing graphics emblazoned on the sides.  Helmets are now fitted with comfort-fit liners, fixed goggle strap locators, a ventilated chin and a UV protective clear coat paint.  Always purchase a helmet that is DOT (Department of Transportation) compliant.

Although helmets do not always protect the rider, wearing a helmet can offer additional protection and will assist in negating any arguments the insurance company may have concerning injuries received in a motorcycle accident.  It is rather surprising to many riders that although Arizona states that riders do not have to wear a helmet, the law also states that the insurance company or at fault driver can blame the rider for his own injuries if a helmet would have prevented those injuries.

If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, seeking legal counsel from an experienced motorcycle attorney is suggested.

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Five ways in which a motorcyclist can help the initiative are the following:

1)  Talk about Motorcycles – Share your perspective in a positive manner by talking to motorists about the need to respect the rights of motorcyclists on the road.

2)  Increase Visibility – Wearing bright, reflective gear can increase your chance of being seen by 12%.

3)  Enhanced Training – In motorcycle crashes studied, 90% of individuals involved were not formally trained.

4)  Ride Smart – Follow the rules, be a courteous rider, and above all, do not drink and ride.  Unfortunately, statistics show that 42% of the 1,921 motorcycle riders who died in single vehicle crashes in 2010 had Blood Alcohol Count levels of .08 g/dl or higher.

5)  Contribute – Support Arizona Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Foundation. 

Although a motorcyclist may follow all of the suggestions listed above, he still may be involved in an accident.  Time is of the essence when you are filing a claim.  Your chances of a successful claim will increase dramatically when experienced motorcycle accident attorneys represent you.

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