Hit-and-Run Drivers Versus California Motorcyclists: A Losing Game
Recently, there have been a rash of hit-and-run accidents affecting motorcycles in California in which CA motorcyclists, passengers, and other motorists have been killed or seriously injured.
For example:
On June 13th, 2010, a hit-and-run driver caused the horrific San Dimas crash in which a man was killed and an 11-year-old boy was seriously injured.
On June 16th, 2010 there was a hit-and-run caused by the driver of a pickup truck, resulting in this East Bay, Antioch crash with two fatalities. In this case, both the motorcyclist and his passenger were killed.
On August 6th, 2010, as reported in the Orange County Register, there was a near-fatal hit and run accident in which a commercial truck driver fled the scene where a motorcyclist was seriously injured.
On August 9th, 2010 Napa Valley Register reported another fatal Napa hit-and-run accident involving an East Bay motorcyclist.
In each of these cases, the hit-and-run motorist was apprehended later, although with difficulty. According to California Highway Patrol (CHP) estimates, approximately two-thirds of all California hit-and-run accidents involving motorcycles are caused by the driver of the full-size vehicle, not the motorcyclist.
What can California motorcyclists do to reduce the danger?
There are several ways that CA motorcycle riders can reduce the odds of being struck by a hit-and-run driver. First, reduce all hazards generally associated with poor visibility, including:
Ride at night only under good weather conditions on known roads
Improve illumination and add reflectors
Slow down and ride more defensively
And most importantly make sure you have uninsured coverage on your insurance policy. This is the coverage that would kick in if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident. I cannot bitch enough about having this coverage and a lot of it. Call your insurance company and make sure you are protected and to the max!
CA bikers can play the game with better odds if they are especially cautious under low-visibility conditions. In addition, always make sure to carry proper identification on you and your motorcycle in the event you are injured or incapacitated in a CA motorcycling accident.
If you have suffered injuries in a California motorcycle crash, our skilled California motorcycle attorneys can help you receive the financial compensation you are entitled to. Whether your accident occurred in Santa Rosa, Oakland, Los Angeles, Bakersfield, or any other city in California, call us at 1-800-4-BIKERS today for a free consultation.
