Most people who ride motorcycles know that a motorcycle accident is significantly more likely to be fatal than is a car accident. However, many people who ride motorcycles do not know other essential facts. Keep reading to find out if any of these myths seem true to you. If they do, then you should get the facts. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 right away.
Do Helmets Save Lives?
A common myth is that helmets do not make a difference and do not save lives. Others believe that while a helmet could reduce the chance of death, it will just leave the victim with a permanent brain injury that is worse than having died.
These are not true facts. The CDC reports that 2,000 lives are saved yearly by the use of helmets. Studies have shown that a person wearing a helmet has a 37% lower risk of death and a 70% lower risk of any head injury. As you can see, helmets not only prevent lost lives but they can reduce the seriousness of injuries, too.
Are Louder Motorcycles Safer?
Another common myth is that if you have a motorcycle with a loud exhaust pipe, then you will be safer than if you have a quiet exhaust pipe. The idea is that the noise lets other drivers know there is a bike around. On the surface, this seems true – but there are actually several reasons it is not true.
First, the sound of an exhaust goes backward, so it does not do an effective job of identifying you to drivers who are next to or in front of you. Second, it is very common for drivers to have music, podcasts, or other sounds on. They might not hear even the loudest exhaust.
Is it Safer to Ride a Motorcycle in the City or on the Highway?
New riders often feel more comfortable riding on city streets and assume that the lower speed will keep them safer. This is yet another myth. City streets have more stops, turns, and intersections with oncoming traffic. Highways generally have wider lanes, traffic moving in just one direction, and consistent traffic flow that enters and exits only at assigned places. These factors make the highway safer.
Do Drivers Always See Motorcycles?
Some motorcycle drivers think that there is some action they can take, clothing they can wear, or other step they can take to ensure that drivers will see them. This is false. Most drivers are looking for cars – not motorcycles. Yes, it is wise to wear bright clothing so you are easier to see, but you should assume that the vehicles around you do not see you.
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 to request a free legal consultation.
