How teen motorcyclists can stay safe

Motorcycles have a 35 percent higher risk for fatal accidents than cars. The risk only grows greater when teens are the ones operating. In South Carolina and the rest of the U.S., the majority of teens opt for sports bikes; these account for more collisions than any other motorcycle model. Teen motorcyclists file 5.7 more accident claims than those between the ages of 35 and 50.

This makes it all the more important for teens to take a course on motorcycle safety. Most DMVs can provide a list of approved courses. One of the benefits of taking a course is that it could lead to a discount on insurance. The following are a few more safety tips for teenage motorcyclists.

Besides finding a bike that’s both cost-efficient and safe, teens should purchase appropriate safety gear. The helmet should be one that’s approved by the DoT; they are usually larger and heavier than non-DoT-approved helmets, and they contain an energy-absorbing foam that can prevent traumatic brain injuries. Denim or leather jackets and pants, along with something reflective, are a must. Shatterproof goggles also come in handy.

Teens should never speed; speeding is attributed to roughly half of all single-vehicle motorcycle fatalities. They should also refrain from having passengers until they’re more experienced because these can easily create a distraction.

When motorcyclists suffer from the negligence of an automobile driver, they may be able to receive compensation through a car accident claim. This is where a lawyer proves helpful. A lawyer can determine if the victim contributed to his or her own injuries by, for example, neglecting to wear the proper safety gear; this will then be factored into the amount of the potential settlement. The lawyer can then negotiate on the victim’s behalf with the insurance companies, litigating only as a last resort.