Best Ideas to Avoid Crashes with Motorcycles, Pedestrians, & Bikes
We’ve been hearing about motorcycle crashes (some fatal) in Buffalo and the surrounding area recently. In June, a motorcyclist reportedly lost control of his bike and crashed near Genesee Street and Nevada Avenue. He was treated at a nearby hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. In the same month, another motorcyclist was critically injured in a crash in Niagara County.
We’ve heard about bicyclists and pedestrians being fatally struck. In one recent incident, a bicyclist was struck by an SUV in Kenmore and rushed to a nearby hospital. The bicyclist sustained injuries to the head, chest, and legs.
In May, a Tonawanda pedestrian was injured after being struck by a pickup truck making a turn, according to The Buffalo News.
Motorcyclists, pedestrians, and bicyclists – the most vulnerable road users
These are the most vulnerable road users in and around Buffalo. They don’t have the luxury of airbags, seatbelts, and a sturdy front end that can absorb the impact of a crash. You never see pedestrians walking around wearing protective gear.
At most, the helmets worn by bicyclists and motorcyclists may be effective at preventing severe head injuries, but both are still susceptible to broken bones, spinal injuries, lacerations, bruises, and abrasions.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- Approximately 783 bicyclists were killed in crashes in 2017
- 5,977 pedestrians were killed in crashes
- 5,172 motorcyclists were killed in crashes
We’re in the midst of summer – a time of year when the streets are heavily occupied and the roads are shared by many. That’s why it’s important for drivers to practice caution, stay alert, and avoid speeding or aggressive driving.
Crash prevention
According to the NHTSA, a great way to prevent collisions is by simply understanding that motorcyclists, pedestrians, and bicyclists have the same right to the roads as drivers.
In addition, drivers should be aware that others using the road are smaller and often less visible. In order to prevent a crash from occurring, drivers should:
- Slow down and watch out for pedestrians in areas with heavy foot traffic.
- Maintain three feet distance when passing bicyclists on the side of the road.
- Keep a safe distance from motorcyclists and avoid driving too close behind.
If you’re a motorcyclists, pedestrian, or bicyclist who was injured in a crash due to a driver’s carelessness or reckless behavior, you should discuss your accident with an experienced Buffalo attorney as soon as possible.
Let the legal team at the Law Offices of James Morris fight to help maximize your compensation. Contact us today to learn more.