Motorcycle riding in California is very popular. With the weather always presenting ideal riding temperatures and conditions, riders can enjoy everything from inner-city cruises, beach side rides and mountain trail carving escapades; California truly has something for every rider. However, there is an inherent danger involved with riding which is why there is currently a 15 hour mandatory Motorcycle Training Course requirement for California residents under age 21 (and recommended for those over) seeking to gain a motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s license.
From 2005 to 2014, fatal traffic collisions in California have consistently been in the thousands each year. Many of those fatalities have been the result of fatal motorcycle accidents. While any number of fatalities is far too high, if we look at motorcycle accidents that leave the victim alive with broken bones, brain trauma and other serious injuries that require long-term care, the number significantly increases.
Motorcycles have very little in the way of safety features. However, California has enforced the safety feature of wearing a helmet for many years although many operators still go without wearing one. Whether they love to feel the wind in their hair or simply don’t like restrictions being imposed upon them, the fact remains that by not wearing a helmet, they greatly increase their chances of sustaining serious or catastrophic injury. In addition, there are legal ramifications associated with not adhering to this safety law.
Whether it’s the result of not wearing a helmet or insufficient training, a motorcycle accident can leave the rider having to recover from physical, financial and psychological losses. Seeking the advice of a legal representative who is experienced in helping obtain compensation in this area may be beneficial to help cover medical expenses and walk you through the many steps involved in an accident case.