One person was killed during a two-vehicle accident involving a motorcycle on Saturday, July 1st in Suffolk. According to an initial investigation by local police, the motorcyclist ran into a vehicle that entered its path as it backed out of a driveway in the 500th block of County Street at about 11:00 p.m.
What can I do to avoid a motorcycle accident?
The motorcycle rider, 24-year-old Myles Lavarez Goodman, a resident of Suffolk, died at the scene.
No additional details have been provided as the collision is still under police investigation.
If you were hurt or lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence or recklessness, contact the Norfolk-area motorcycle accident attorneys at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp. You can schedule a free case evaluation and find out what legal action we recommend moving forward.
Virginia Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Although Virginia motorcyclists are afforded the same rights as the drivers of passenger vehicles, they are more likely to be seriously injured or killed in an accident. Additionally, many drivers adopt a “might makes right” mentality, and overlook or disregard the rights of motorcycle riders simply because they have a smaller vehicle, forcing them to drive defensively in order to ensure their safety.
Motorcyclists are at risk any time they take their bike out on the road. Roughly 5,000 motorcyclists are killed every single year in the United States. This number is distressingly high, particularly when you take into account that motorcycles comprise just 3% of all registered vehicles statewide. I2,048 motorcycle accidents took place in Virginia in 2021, marking a 12.1% rise from the previous year. Data collected in 2021 by the Virginia Highway Safety Office also shows that:
- 102 bikers were killed in accidents
- Almost 1,700 motorcyclists were injured
- More than 730 of those injuries were classified as serious
What Can Motorcyclists Do to Stay Safe?
Taking steps to prevent motorcycle accidents from happening is imperative to the safety of bikers as well as others on the roadway. One of the most important things that a rider can do is to wear proper safety equipment, including a helmet approved by the Department of Transportation, steel-toed boots, and protective outwear.
Motorcyclists should also drive defensively, anticipate possible road dangers, and follow all driving laws. Avoiding blind spots, wearing reflective clothing, and having working headlights are also crucial when it comes to being visible to other drivers. Routine maintenance of a bike’s lights, tires, and brakes is also essential to rider safety.
As with any motor vehicle, getting behind the wheel (or handlebars) while drunk or otherwise under the influence is not only illegal, but it can impair a rider’s ability to safely operate their vehicle.
What Can Other Drivers Do to Avoid Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcyclists are not solely responsible for taking precautions to prevent accidents. All drivers have a duty of care to ensure the safety of those around them, including motorcyclists.
The single most important action a driver can take is to always be aware of their immediate surroundings and keep an eye out for motorcyclists, particularly when turning, merging, or changing lanes. Drivers should also never crowd a rider. Giving them ample space not only decreases the chances of an accident but allows other drivers to be aware that a smaller vehicle is in the area.
Lastly, distractions such as texting and making phone calls can slow a driver’s reaction time and prevent them from seeing a motorcycle in the area. Keeping your focus on the road and your surroundings will greatly reduce your odds of colliding with a motorcycle or any other vehicle.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawsuit Help?
A successful personal injury accident lawsuit can ensure that you receive compensation for your:
- Medical bills, and permanent or long-term medical treatment
- Lost wages or lost job opportunities
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death damages for surviving relatives if the motorcyclist was killed
- In some cases, punitive damages may be available. These are designed to punish the at-fault driver’s gross negligence
If your life has been impacted by a motorcycle accident, reach out to an experienced motorcycle injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Were You Injured in a Virginia Motorcycle Accident?
If you sustained injuries in a Virginia motorcycle accident for which you were not at fault, the Virginia motorcycle accident attorneys at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp are able to help. Schedule a free case review with our Virginia Beach motorcycle accident lawyers by giving us a call at (833) 997-1774 or through our contact form online.