Whether it’s taking in Oklahoma’s bluebird spring mornings or feeling the cool, crisp autumn air, motorcycle riders know there’s no better way to experience the world than on two wheels. It’s a freedom like no other, the freedom to tune in and experience the world in high definition. But for all of the exhilaration that comes on the back of a bike, riders should always remain vigilant — especially against negligent drivers who fail to share the road responsibly.

As an experienced Oklahoma personal injury attorney, Tim Gilpin understands the importance of holding those drivers accountable. In this post, we’re breaking down motorcycle tips to help you stay safe and sharing your legal options if you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence. 

How Motorcycle Accidents Happen

Seasoned motorcyclists have a saying about motorcycle crashes: It’s not if, but when. While you’re not guaranteed to eat pavement, there’s a good chance that if you ride long enough, you’ll end up with road rash sooner or later. 

Coming to terms with that possibility can have a lot to do with how well things turn out for you on the other side of that spill, slide, or crash. In other words, expect the best but prepare for the worst. And that starts with understanding how and why motorcycle accidents happen. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the fatality rate for motorcyclists is 22 times the rate for passenger cars, and motorcyclists are four times as likely to be injured in an accident. But the good news is that many decisions you make as a rider can have a dramatic impact on those outcomes — decisions like the choice to wear a helmet, drive defensively, abstain from substance use while driving, and even just get your motorcycle endorsement. 

Factoring in Driver Negligence

The National Safety Council found that 56% of motorcycle accidents involved a crash with another vehicle. With the ubiquity of mobile phones these days, it’s never been more important to understand what causes those collisions and remain vigilant at all times as a motorcycle rider.

Too often, it comes down to other vehicles simply not seeing the motorcycle — a good reason to drive as if other drivers can’t see you at all. These are just a few common forms of driver negligence that could lead to a motorcycle crash:

• Lane changes without checking blind spots
• Failure to yield 
• Driving over the speed limit
• Misjudging motorcycle speed
• Texting, taking calls, checking GPS, and other in-car distractions
• Alcohol or substance use
• Road rage
• Tailgating

Motorcycle Safety Tips for Riders

While other drivers bear significant responsibility, motorcyclists can take proactive steps to enhance their safety and mitigate risks. These motorcycle rider safety tips could mean the difference between a close call and a life-changing spill.

1. Make yourself visible.

You can’t make your motorcycle bigger, but you can make yourself easier to see. Keep your headlight on at all times, and consider adding LEDs and other modifications to make your bike more visible. Wear brightly colored clothing, reflective gear, or even a safety vest for visibility, especially if you’re driving in a high-traffic area known for bad drivers. 

2. Always drive defensively. 

While you can’t avoid every accident, a seasoned rider is in the habit of scanning the road all around for potential hazards like potholes, gravel, or distracted drivers. Maintain a safe following distance at all times, and avoid riding in other drivers’ blind spots if at all possible. Never weave in and out of traffic or drive on the shoulder, and try to leave yourself a possible escape route. 

3. Keep your ears clear. 

Your ears can be every bit as important as your eyes when it comes to identifying road hazards. If you must listen to your favorite tunes while you’re on the road, you’re better off investing in a motorcycle sound system. No playlist is worth your safety.

4. Wear the right gear. 

Wearing a helmet can mean the difference between a minor accident with a little bit of road rash and permanent brain damage or even death. You should always wear a DOT-approved safety helmet. But since helmet manufacturers are responsible for self-certifying, it can also pay to do a little extra research and go with a helmet brand you know is highly rated for safety. Protective clothing like jackets, heavy jeans, and boots can also go a long way in preventing road rash or reducing the severity of injuries if you crash. 

5. Get training. 

Nothing will sharpen your defensive driving skills as a motorcyclist like an advanced safety course. If nothing else, take the time to study motorcycle laws and test for your motorcycle endorsement. 

The Lasting Impact of Motorcycle Accidents

Just as with bicycle accidents, motorcycle-automotive accidents tend to be more devastating because there’s less to protect riders. When a car hits a motorcycle, the consequences can be catastrophic. 

Common motorcycle accident injuries in Oklahoma include:

• Road rash
• Fractures
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
• Internal injuries

Beyond the immediate physical trauma, motorcyclists injured by driver negligence can face immense burdens like lost wages due to injury, out-of-control medical bills, and profound pain and suffering. The long-term effects of a motorcycle car accident can even include permanent disability, chronic pain, emotional distress, and a drastically altered quality of life.

Seeking Justice After a Motorcycle-Automotive Accident

No matter what the circumstances of the other driver’s negligence, if you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver, you have the right to seek justice and compensation.

Immediately after your accident, be sure to document everything you can from photos of the accident to medical bills. Your next step is to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you prove negligence in a motorcycle accident by gathering all of that evidence along with police reports, witness statements, accident reconstruction, and everything else you need to make your case. 

What Compensation Can I Get For a Motorcycle Injury?

A successful motorcycle accident settlement can help you recover damages for:

• All medical expenses
• Lost wages 
• Pain and suffering
• Motorcycle repair or replacement
• Helmet and equipment replacement

If an automotive-motorcycle accident results in a fatality a wrongful death lawsuit can help you seek compensation for all of the above as well as funeral expenses, loss of companionship and even financial support for the victim’s surviving family members. 

Contact an Oklahoma Motorcycle Accident Attorney

The road to recovery after a motorcycle accident can be challenging enough between things like medical issues, motorcycle repairs, temporary loss of transportation, and fighting the insurance company. That’s why you need someone in your corner who understands the process and can help you get your life back on track. 

A dedicated personal injury attorney specializing in motorcycle accidents like Tim Gilpin can be your strongest advocate. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash in Oklahoma, contact Tim today for a consultation so you can focus on what’s most important: your recovery.