On Tuesday, the Governors Highway Safety Association released a report revealing that 2011 saw no decrease in the number of motorcycle accident fatalities, despite the fact that overall highway deaths have declined. Based on preliminary data, the GHSA projects that approximately 4,500 motorcycle accident deaths occurred in 2011 – the same amount as 2010.
Motorcycle deaths are one of the few areas of highway safety where progress isn’t happening. Researchers cite high gas prices, a strengthening economy, and the lack of strong helmet laws for the unchanged numbers. As the economy continues to improve in 2012, more people will have surplus income for purchasing motorcycles, and the rising gas prices are causing more people to choose motorcycles for daily transportation due to fuel efficiency.
Motorcyclists are more vulnerable to serious personal injury than any other motorist. Their lack of an external covering leaves them with little protection if they are thrown from their bike, and their smaller size compared to most vehicles makes motorcycles harder for some drivers to see. In most cases, however, drivers of passenger vehicles simply do not afford motorcycles the respect and courtesy they need to safely share the road.
If you have been seriously injured, or if your loved one has been killed in a motorcycle accident, please contact The Cochran Firm today to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer.
