Hawaii News reports that a 38-year-old man has sustained serious personal injuries following a motorcycle accident on Waikoloa Road on the Big Island. In initial investigation reveals that the man was struck by a sedan that was attempting to make a left turn. The motorcyclist was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment of his injuries, then transferred to Oahu. Speed and alcohol are not considered to be factors in this personal injury accident.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), overall the number of motorcycle fatalities have dropped slightly, however, the percentage of motorcycles deaths remains disproportionately large as compared to the other motor vehicle accidents. In fact, statistics show that motorcyclists are nearly 30 times more likely to die in a traffic accident as those in car accidents.
Efforts to improve motorcycle safety are two-fold – focusing both on rider’s efforts to operate their motorcycles with care, and on increasing others awareness of the challenges faced by motorcycle enthusiasts.
For riders, it’s important to remember to follow basic rules of the road, using care not to drive recklessly, while intoxicated, or distracted. Also, adhering to safety suggestions such as wearing a helmet and appropriate gear can help reduce the severity of an accident should one occur.
Motorists sharing the road with cyclists should drive defensively, be aware that motorcyclists may be hard to see, and in blind spots, thus it’s crucial to double check that lanes of traffic are clear before switching lanes, turning, or making other travel adjustments. Motorists should be ready to adjust and respond to motorcyclists on the road, while motorcyclists should bear in mind that in some cases, drivers may not see them until too late to take evasive action.
Improving roadway safety has benefits for all who share the road.
For more information, or if you or someone you love was injured in a motor vehicle accident, please contact the experienced Hawaii personal injury lawyers at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for an immediate consultation.
