Every year, hundreds of motorcyclists are injured and killed on the roads of Indiana. The statistics can be staggering - especially when they reveal that passenger vehicle fatalities occur at a mere fraction of the rate of fatal motorcycle accidents. Luckily, new technologies are making motorcycles safer for riders. When accidents do occur, motorcyclists have legal rights which must be protected. An experienced Indianapolis motorcycle accident attorney can help secure fair compensated for injuries sustained in any auto accident.
Choice of Features Can Help Motorcyclists Meet Their Legal Obligations
Like all drivers, motorcyclists have a duty under Indiana law to operate their vehicles with due care in order to avoid collisions. The Indiana Code also impose other specific safety obligations upon motorcycle riders. Title 9, Article 21, Chapter 10 governs passengers and seating restrictions; cargo; headlights; lane use restrictions; and other important safety measures for motorcycle riders.
New motorcycle safety technologies is improving and expanding in ways that not only help riders meet their legal obligations, but also save lives. FairWarning reports that anti-lock braking is quickly becoming a standard feature of motorcycles, as well. All new motorcycles sold in Europe must now include ABS. Japan, India and Brazil are all requiring ABS for motorcycles on a phased-in schedule. Despite support from NHTSA and other powerful advocates, ABS is not yet required in the United States. It is still a widely-available feature, however, and consumers are wise to access its protection. It is also interesting to note that both the California Highway Patrol and New York City Police Department require all motorcycles in their fleets to carry ABS.
Motorcycle buyers should also consider other features which can help them meet this obligation. For example: engine size affects speed, and this can be a problem for new or inexperienced riders who are not prepared to manage a powerful engine. Other intriguing safety options are in various stages of research and development. Airbag vests and jackets; safer helmets with GPS and backup cameras; LED and adaptive headlights; gloves with Bluetooth connectivity; system monitoring and diagnostic warnings; electronic stability control; and many other such innovations may soon become widely available to consumers. With so many options, it can be difficult to know what safety features are most important. Motorcycle buyers should carefully research all options and identify those which best suit their riding needs.
Of course, no amount of safety features or technology can substitute for attentive and defensive driving. Motorcycles - being small - can be difficult for other drivers to see. Use your horn and lights as necessary in order to make other drivers aware of your presence. Slow down when roads are slippery, or during times of poor visibility. Identify obstacles as early as possible so you have the maximum amount of time to react to them. Be prepared to react to erratic movements from other drivers, or from wildlife near the roadway. Complement your safety features with safe driving habits in order to improve your chances of staying safe on the road.