Many motorcyclists believe that the best course of action is to lay down their bike — and themselves — when an accident is imminent. The theory is that this action helps to avoid a full-on collision with another vehicle. While laying a bike down used to be taught as a safety measure in the early days of motorcycle enthusiasm, it’s no longer a wise choice. In fact, it may result in more serious injuries. Here’s what you need to know.
Injuries Caused by Laying Your Bike Down
If you lay your bike down to try to avoid an accident, you may avoid one collision, but face an equally significant problem. You could be left with a totaled motorcycle and serious or critical injuries like:
- Broken bones
- Amputated limbs
- Road rash or severe friction burns
- Traumatic brain injuries, especially if the rider wasn’t wearing a helmet
- Neck injuries
If such serious injuries can occur from laying a bike down before an accident, why was it recommended as a safety measure and still encouraged by many motorcyclists today?
Improved Motorcycle Technology
Over the years, motorcycle technology has improved exponentially. Today’s motorcycles have safety features that make swerving to avoid a collision possible, as well as:
- Anti-lock braking systems
- Improved tires with increased traction
- Improved mirror technology that allows for motorcyclists to see to the side and back of them
- Better steering and maneuverability
This technology allows motorcyclists to avoid accidents more easily, and when coupled with motorcycle safety techniques like always wearing a DOT approved helmet, it’s no longer necessary – or advised – to lay your bike down to avoid a collision.
When to Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you or a family member were hurt in a motorcycle accident, or if your loved one died in a crash, don’t wait to get the help of an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. The insurance company’s job is to save as much money as they can on the claim, and they’ll often attempt to offer you a settlement much lower than you deserve for the damages you incurred. With the help of a lawyer, you can put pressure on the insurance company and pursue litigation if necessary in order to ensure that medical bills, lost wages, emotional suffering and other damages related to the accident are covered.
At Mazow | McCullough, PC, we are committed to providing victims of motorcycle accidents and their families with zealous legal representation. We will examine every facet of the incident to determine who may be held legally liable for injuries to you or a loved one. Call us now for an appointment to learn more about your legal rights after a motorcycle crash at (855) 693-9084.
