In 2014 (the most recent year with published statistics by the California Office of Traffic Safety as of May, 2017), San Francisco County has some serious motorcycle safety awareness statistics:
379 motorcyclists killed or injured in a collision
This puts San Francisco County at 1 of 58 for the OTS ranking which is how cities measure-up to other cities of similar populations.
At Rahman Law PC, we also have an office to represent motorcycle accident clients in San Luis Obispo County. This county ranks 29 of 58 on the OTS ranking with:
103 motorcycles killed or injured in a collision
Why are we bringing up these statistics? Because May is National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month! And this year we want to help raise awareness for safety to motorcycles, too! We are motorcycle accident lawyers in San Francisco and San Luis Obispo and safety starts with awareness, just like when we advocate for bicycle safety awareness.
What Can You Do For National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month 2017?
If you ride a motorcycle or know someone who rides:
- Get your helmet checked for age, damage, and fit – take it in to an authorized dealer.
- Wear reflective gear and consider adding a new piece to honor National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
- Wear protective gear with armor and pads from head to toe.
- Brush up your skills – Many motorcycle riding schools offer advanced riding courses.
If you are an automobile driver (4 wheels and not 2):
- Remember to look twice – motorcycles can be harder to see in mirrors.
- Watch turns – motorcycle blinkers often do not have automated “offs” like cars.
- Give extra space – motorcycles can use their clutch to slow down before they brake which will not show you a brake light (until they do brake) giving you less time to stop.
Motorcycles can be a fun way to get around and in San Francisco an easier way to find parking. If you or a loved one enjoys motorcycle riding for commuting or for cruising, be sure to share these tips for a safe National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month 2017 and let’s make every month a safer month for motorcycles and bicycles. Until Vision Zero becomes a reality in San Francisco and hopefully San Luis Obispo, too (vision zero means zero traffic deaths and was adopted to safety policy by the City and County of San Francisco in 2014), remember that the personal injury attorneys at Rahman Law PC are here for you whether you need a motorcycle accident lawyer, bicycle accident attorney, or other personal injury counsel, contact us today.