Motorcycle Accidents on the Rise! Drive Safe…

According to reports published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were more than 5,300 deaths due to motorcycle accidents in the US in the year 2008. The data provided by NHTSA shows that the death rate in motorcycle accidents has been rising every year. In a period of 10 years, the total number of deaths has more than doubled from 2,116 in 1997 to 5,357 in 2008. Taking these numbers into consideration, motorcycle drivers should strictly adhere to government regulations regarding road safety.

What Does the Law Have to Say?

Laws pertaining to motorcycles and their riders vary from state to state. For example, in Montana, people who are 17 years and younger are legally permitted to drive a two-wheeler. However, in some states, 20 years is the minimum age limit. Similarly, the laws regarding the use of helmets also differ across states.

One thing that is common across the US is that motorcycle owners are required to buy third-party insurance at the minimum. A third-party insurance policy will pay for the loss or damage to another person or property caused due to an insured motorcycle. For individuals who want higher degree of cover, comprehensive insurance is the best deal. It covers loss or damage to the motorcycle owner, driver and third-party all inclusive.

Driving a two-wheeler without helmets and third-party insurance is a crime across all states in the US and attracts heavy penalties.

Other actions that attract penalties under the traffic and safety laws in the US are:

• Driving under the influence of alcohol
• Rash driving
• Ignoring traffic signals
• Jumping traffic lights
• Zig-zag driving

How to File a Claim in a Motorcycle Accident Case?

If you have been a victim of a motorcycle accident, you can file for compensation, provided your two-wheeler is insured as per the law. You can also ask your insurance company to pay for any third-party claim related to the motorcycle accident. However, you should be aware of the exceptions mentioned in the insurance policy. If your claim falls under any of the exception categories, you will not be compensated by the insurance company.

It is a smart decision to consult a personal injury attorney who specializes in motorcycle accident cases after an accident. A specialist personal injury attorney will be able to evaluate your case in the proper legal light and provide expert advice. By consulting a lawyer in your motorcycle accident case, you can rest assured that your rights will be protected.

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