More than 8.5 million Americans ride motorcycles at this point, and that number continues to increase every year. Quite a few reports show that motorcycles are more likely to be involved in accidents than passenger vehicles, and riders are more likely to be seriously injured in crashes than occupants of cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs.
Many people insist that law enforcement officials are more likely to pull over people on motorcycles as well. It’s no secret that certain types of vehicles seem to be targeted. Sports cars, muscle cars, and motorcycles happen to be among the most common. What should you do if you’re unfairly pulled over for traffic violations or deemed partially responsible for an accident after being hurt on your motorcycle, though? Read on to learn more about road safety violations and how to protect yourself if you’re accused of committing them.
Understanding the Rules of the Road
First of all, fully understanding the rules of the road is essential no matter what types of vehicles you own and drive. It’s particularly important when you’re on a motorcycle. It’ll help keep you safe while also protecting the people you share the road with. It’ll also aid in making you less of a target for citations. Keep in mind that the rules aren’t always the same from one county or state to the next. Something as seemingly minor as failing to run your headlights during the day or inadvertently crossing from a state without helmet laws into one that requires helmets could place you at risk.
If you’re traveling, be sure to brush up on the laws in the area you’ll be visiting to avoid accidentally violating the local laws and regulations. Stay abreast of the laws in the areas where you commonly ride as well. Always be aware of speed limits. Pay attention to traffic lights, signs, and other vehicles on the road with you. Keep your bike in top-notch condition with no broken lights or mirrors. In a nutshell, don’t leave any room for questions or confusion to prevent drawing undue attention and being accused of violations.
Knowing How Traffic Violations Could Affect You
In addition to knowing the rules of the road, it’s important to understand how being found guilty of a road safety violation might affect you. For one, it could result in points being added to your driver’s license, which could eventually lead to suspension. Your insurance rates may skyrocket, and you could face significant fines as well. In extreme cases, people who are convicted of road safety violations may face jail time. Losing your driving privileges and going to jail can both have serious negative effects on your entire life as well as those of your loved ones.
Besides those issues, if you’re found guilty of violations after being in an accident, it could affect the outcome of your case. You may be deemed partially or fully at fault for the accident even if the other driver was responsible to some extent. That, in turn, may reduce the amount of damages you’re entitled to or render you ineligible for damages altogether.
Seeking Legal Help for Traffic Violations
Anytime you’re accused of road safety violations, seeking legal advice is recommended. It’s particularly important if you’ve been wrongfully accused. In the event you’ve been charged after being injured in a motorcycle accident, having legal representation is even more essential. Be sure you understand the rules of the road, and don’t leave any room for error if possible. Beyond that, be aware of how violations may affect you and how legal counsel can help you protect yourself and prevent the potential resulting hardships.