Warm weather is a mixed blessing for motorcyclists
Nebraska motorcycle riders certainly enjoy those extra days of riding that come with milder autumns, springs and winters. Unfortunately, along with longer stretches of good riding weather come a rise in motorcycle accident fatalities.
Motorcycle death total surpasses past year
As of early October 2012, 23 people had died on Nebraska roads in motorcycle accidents. The latest was a man whose bike collided with a deer in Washington County on U.S. Highway 75.
With almost a quarter of the year to go, the death toll reached the total number for all of 2011. In neighboring Iowa, 50 have already been victims of fatal motorcycle crashes, while only 34 died in all of 2011.
Hazards increase in warmer weather
The first death of the year came in January 2012, which was a sad harbinger of things to come. Nicer weather means more motorcycles are out. It also means greater speed on the highways, on the part of both motorcycle riders and automobile drivers.
Another weather-related factor implicated in the latest Nebraska death is changes in the movements of wild animals. Dryer weather resulting in drought makes it harder for wild animals to find water and food, so deer and other animals are more on the move and therefore more likely to encounter motor vehicles.
Staying safe while riding
Almost 89,000 Nebraskans are licensed to ride a motorcycle, more than any time on record dating back to 1986. With motorcycles so popular, many new riders are taking to the roads, and taking a training course may be their best bet for staying safe.
According to researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, training courses work to reduce accidents among young drivers, so the same may be true for motorcycle riders. Motorcycles have unique operating characteristics. It takes practice to build up the skills needed to take corners and to brake without losing control.
Motorcyclists benefit from safety strategies like wearing appropriate gear, including a helmet. Gloves help riders keep a good grip on the handlebars to ensure better control, and goggles or safety glasses can help keep wind and dust out of the rider’s eyes.
Defensive driving is especially important for those who are on the road without the protection of a metal frame surrounding them.
In addition, being more visible keeps a motorcyclist safer from inattentive drivers sharing the road. Good motorcycle riders learn where to place themselves in traffic so as to avoid motorists’ blind spots. It is also worthwhile to use modulating headlights and to wear clothing in bright colors.
Even careful motorcyclists get into accidents and can need the help of an attorney specializing in personal injury law. It is worthwhile for anyone injured in a motorcycle accident to consult with an experienced Nebraska attorney about the options for obtaining compensation for damages due to someone else’s negligence.
