Motorcycle Accidents in Modesto a Summer Threat

 

You may have heard it in the news. The number of roadway fatalities is at a low not seen since 1949. What officials aren't crowing about is that the number of fatal motorcycle accidents in Modesto and elsewhere continue to be near record highs.

Over the last two years, we haven't seen these numbers budge despite all of the safety and awareness campaigns. Even with the near 2 percent decrease in the number of overall motor vehicle fatalities across the nation in the last year, we still saw about 4,500 motorcyclist fatalities in 2011 and about the same in 2010. Child custody. Motorcycle fatalities continue to be one category of highway safety where there is pretty much no progress being made.

"It is disappointing that we are not making progress in motorcycle safety," said Troy Costales, GHSA Chairman, "particularly as fatalities involving other motorists continue to decline."

Our Modesto accident lawyers understand that there are a number of reasons why officials believe these numbers are staying the same. Some believe that it's because of the improving economy. They're saying that residents have more disposable income and many are using it on these two-wheeled vehicles, according to MSNBC.

Others are saying it's because of the steep gas prices, saying that residents are looking for a cheaper way to get around town. Whatever the reasons may be, it's known that motorists aren't doing much to help to reverse the trend. Drivers of all kinds need to be aware of one another on our roadways to help to keep everyone safe and sound.

Although California state law says that anyone and everyone on a motorcycle is required to wear a helmet that meets all safety requirements, many experts blame the relaxed motorcycle laws throughout the country for this continued trend in motorcyclist fatalities.

Although the end of May closes out Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, awareness needs to continue to be a top priority in California year round. Our state provides us with motorcycle-riding weather all year long and for that reason we see some serious risks for accidents. With the summer season here, we can expect to see a ton of these vulnerable riders on our roadways. Visitors will be flocking to the state to enjoy the California sunshine and residents will be hitting the road in route to their summer destination. Be on your best behavior behind the wheel to keep our motorcyclists safe!

During the first nine months of 2011, motorcycle accident statistics for the state of California were not available. It's more than likely that our state saw some of the highest numbers of these fatal accidents as we do year after year. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration consistently reports that California leads the nation in the number of fatal motorcycle accidents.