Motorcycles have become more and more popular, with many people – both men and women – finding themselves in the market to purchase a motorcycle, either as an upgrade from their current vehicle or as a first-time buyer. While the risks of serious injuries in a motorcycle accident are significantly higher than in other types of crashes, there are some new technological advances that provide some much-needed safety options for riders. The following is a brief overview of some of the newer options. If you or a loved one suffers injuries in a motorcycle crash, make sure to contact a Virginia Beach motorcycle accident attorney from Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp to find out how we can help.
Anti-Lock Brakes
Anti-lock brakes are now available in motorcycles and play a significant role in reducing fatal crashes. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the rate of fatal crashes for motorcycles equipped with ABS is a little more than 30 percent lower than for the same model bikes that don’t have the braking system. ABS uses sensors to determine if the wheels of the motorcycle may lock up while braking and prevent the locking up from occurring by quickly reducing and then reapplying pressure multiple times per second. Many newer motorcycles are also equipped with cornering ABS which uses technology to help in keeping the bike stable during sharp or tight turning maneuvers, as well as in emergency situations.
Automatic Tire Pressure Monitors
Having the right amount of tire pressure is critical for safe riding. When the tire pressure is low, this can lead to unresponsive handling for the rider, spiking the chances of crashing. New model bikes come with electronic tire pressure indicators that alert the rider when the air is getting low.
Adaptive Headlights
One of the greatest dangers for motorcycle riders driving in the dark. Not only do they have to worry about other vehicle drivers seeing them, but the headlights on older bikes typically don’t illuminate the road ahead of the rider very well, either, which makes it difficult for night driving. Some new model bikes are now coming equipped with adaptive headlights that employ electronic sensors to pivot when the bike is taking corners, lighting up the road in the direction the motorcycle is traveling in instead of just straight ahead. Adaptive headlights are also available as an after-market option for riders with older model bikes.
Contact a Skilled Virginia Injury Attorney Today
Unfortunately, no matter how safe a motorcyclist is, they can still become a motorcycle crash victim and sustain serious injuries. Some of the most frequent injuries that clients of a Virginia Beach motorcycle accident attorney suffer include brain injuries, broken bones, paralysis, and spinal trauma. Our accident attorneys understand that the injuries motorcycle accident victims sustain often leave them with permanent disabilities that not only create physical limitations but also result in significant financial losses.
If you or a loved one were injured in a motorcycle accident, it is critical not to delay contacting the legal team at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp because Virginia injury laws have strict rules regarding how long you have to file your personal injury claim. If the statute of limitations expires, you will be unable to collect financial damages for any medical expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering, or any other losses you or your family may be entitled to.
We also offer a free motorcycle injury guide which provides information that you may find helpful.
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