Summer sunshine and warm weather have a way of making you want to get your motorcycle out of the garage and hit the open road. Before you secure your helmet and hop onto your Harley, take a second to consider the potential dangers that you may encounter on your journey.
Motorcycles have the same privileges as any other vehicle on the roadway but oftentimes do not get the same amount of respect. Motorcyclists are commonly stereotyped for speeding, disobeying traffic laws, or being dangerous. However, other drivers can be dangerous to motorcyclists. Based on our experience in representing bikers, our New Mexico injury attorney has found that many motorcycle accidents occurring in Albuquerque are caused by another driver’s mistake.
Distracted Drivers Are a Major Danger to Motorcyclists in Albuquerque
With advancements in technology, distracted driving has become a major problem in the United States. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon to drive down the road and pass someone looking down at their phone; likely texting or checking social media. In 2014, 3,179 people were killed and 431,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers. The consequences of these actions can be deadly for motorcyclists who are already lacking the protection that the driver of a vehicle has. As a motorcyclist, it is important to be on high alert at all times.
Visibility Is Essential to Protecting Yourself on New Mexico Roads
Drivers need to be extra cautious when traveling on motorcycles. It is easy for a vehicle the size of a motorcycle to become trapped in a large automobile’s blind spot. To help protect yourself, make sure that you are visible to other drivers. Wear bright-colored gear, or clothing with reflective materials if traveling at night. Make sure that you ride where you can be seen and never share a lane with a car. Also, always clearly signal your intentions to other drivers.
New Mexico Motorcycle Traffic Laws
Be sure that you know the New Mexico motorcycle laws. For less experienced drivers, the State of New Mexico has a motorcycle safety program that offers basic and advanced riding courses.
If you have been injured in an accident on your motorcycle that was caused by the recklessness or negligence of another driver, you have legal rights. Learn what you can do to protect those rights and secure the compensation you need to recover from your injuries by calling the New Mexico motorcycle accident attorneys at Keller & Keller. From our office in Albuquerque, we proudly serve all of New Mexico. Request your free consultation here.
