Charlotte Injury Lawyers Blog
One of the most important ways to reduce motorcycle accidents is to be more aware of all the traffic surrounding your car. Something so small as paying more careful attention could save a biker’s life. One such tragic accident took place this weekend which left a Charlotte mother and daughter in critical condition after a motorcycle crash on I-485.
The incident occurred this past Saturday afternoon near the Beatties Ford Road exit. According to North Carolina Highway patrol, Karen Borders was driving the bike with her 13-year-old daughter when one of the tires blew. The blowout caused them to lose control, skidding and rolling across a busy stretch of interstate. Both women are reported as having life threatening injuries.
Hearing about accidents like this make riding a motorcycle seem like one of the most dangerous things anyone could do. There are way too many things that can go wrong when riding, and the fact is that it is bikers are prone to more serious injuries, because they are so exposed and lack any real protection.
If you are a motorcyclist who is going to carry a passenger on your bike, consider the following safety tips from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation:
• If you decide to carry a child, make sure the child is mature enough to handle the responsibilities, can reach the footrests, wears a helmet and other protective gear, and holds onto you or the passenger hand-holds.
• Instruct your passenger to limit movement and talking.
• Remember that the extra weight from carrying a passenger can affect braking procedures, starting from a stop, and riding through a corner.
• Exercise caution in quick stops, as a passenger can move forward and bump your helmet with theirs.
• Passing will require more time and space.
• The effects of the wind will be more distinct.
• The passenger should not make any sudden movements or turns.
It is estimated that 100,000 motorcyclists were injured in motorcycle crashes last year, with 5,154 of those crashes ending in fatalities. Motorcycles are naturally less safe than enclosed automobiles, and they are less visible and less stable than four-wheeled vehicles. But that does not mean that other motorists do not owe you a duty when you are on the road in North Carolina. It is a driver’s duty to drive with due care and attention, and if they fail to live up to that duty, they should be held responsible for the consequences, such as paying medical bills, lost wages or damages for a wrongful death.
If you, or someone you know, have any questions regarding a motorcycle accident, please feel free to contact the experienced Charlotte, North Carolina motorcycle accident lawyers at Arnold & Smith, PLLC for a free consultation. Call at 704-370-2828.
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Teen dies in Motorcycle Accident Outside of Charlotte, North Carolina