Motorcycle accidents are considered to be one of the common causes of wrongful deaths in the United States. According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) statistics, in 2008 alone, around 5,290 motorcyclists were killed while 96,000 others were injured due this type of traffic accident. One of the states that are plagued by motorbike accidents is California. According to statistics, about 400 fatal California motorcycle accidents are recorded each year.

It is common knowledge that motorcycle riding is dangerous, considering that this vehicle is less stable compared to cars and it cannot provide adequate protection to the person who is riding it.

Reasons why motorcycle riders must take extra care:

€ Approximately 59 percent of all the motorcyclists who were killed in 2008 were not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
€ In 2008, around 25 of motorcycle accidents that resulted in death involved bikers who collided with stationary objects and at least 19 percent of them involved bikers who collided with cars.
€ About 3 percent of fatal motorcycle accidents that occurred in 2008 were alcohol-related.

Keeping out of motorcycle accidents

California motorcyclists are always in threat of getting involved in minor and serious road accidents which is why it is imperative for them to know how to avoid such mishaps. Riders must keep in mind that when an accident happens, there is a high possibility that they may sustain severe injuries and even death.

The following are four easiest ways to prevent tragic California motorcycle accidents:

1. Be a defensive rider
It will increase your chances of saving yourself if ever you encounter a negligent driver.

2. Make your presence felt by other road users
Because of the size of a motorcycle, you may not be easily noticed by drivers. You can make your presence felt by using your motorbike's horn and by wearing bright colored clothing.

3. Check motorcycle before hitting the road
Before you go out on the road, you should first make sure that your motorcycle's brakes and tires are in a good condition. If the brakes are not working or if the tires are already worn out, you should immediately address the problem because failure to do so may result in an accident.

4. Mind road hazards
Because your motorcycle only has two wheels, you can easily lose control of it if you accidentally ran over road hazards like debris, rocks, or potholes.