Spokane law enforcement reports that a motorcyclist died in an accident that occurred in September. The motorcyclist crashed on Government Way close to Greenwood Road in West Spokane. Emergency workers tried to revive the injured motorcyclist, but he was later pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. The motorcyclist was traveling south on Government Way when he failed to make a left turn. The motorcyclist then fell off his bike, which continued sliding and struck a vehicle parked in a nearby driveway. The motorcyclist's death was classified as a vehicular accident.

The Insurance Information Institute reports that in 2017, 5,172 motorcyclists died in motorcycle crashes. This large number of motorcycle crashes means that motorcycle riders in the United States were 27 times more likely than small vehicle passengers to die in accidents when measured per mile traveled. Despite the significant risk of motorcycle accidents, there are some substantial steps that motorists can take to reduce the risk of ending up in motorcycle crashes. The following reviews just five of the most helpful strategies motorcycle riders should make sure to follow. 

Realize Your Mirrors are Not Infallible

Your motorcycle's mirrors can play a critical role in avoiding accidents. Unfortunately, however, motorcycle mirrors do not always reveal all of the hazards surrounding a motorcyclist. This is why it is always a good idea to look over your shoulder in addition to using your mirrors. 

Avoiding End Up Between Off-Ramps and Vehicles

Many people think that when motorcycle accidents occur, the rider is often to blame. In reality, a large number of motorcycle accidents occur due to mistakes made by passenger vehicle drivers. One common way in which motorcyclists are harmed by passenger vehicle drivers is when drivers decide they need to exit the road and the last minute and end up colliding with motorcyclists. The best way to avoid accidents is to never position yourself between a vehicle and an off-ramp. 

Perfect How You Scan Your Surroundings

Routinely scanning your surrounding environment while riding can better help you better respond to sudden obstacles. While your scan should include traffic and your motorcycle, you should also be focused on the conditions of the road on which you are riding. Focusing on one area of your bike or your surroundings greatly increases your risk of ending up in a deadly motorcycle crash.

Weigh Your Options

Motorcycles are light and capable of being easily maneuvered. As a result, if you get into a compromised situation, remember that it is a good idea to utilize your motorcycle's strengths. For example, you might decide that it is safer to swerve into a yard than to collide with an approaching vehicle. By always weighing your options and considering what is the safest choice, you can greatly reduce your risk of ending up in a serious motorcycle crash.

Contact a Knowledgeable Car Crash Attorney

Regardless of how your Spokane accident occurred, one of the best steps that you can take following a motor vehicle crash is to retain the assistance of an experienced car crash attorney. Contact West Law Office today to schedule a free case evaluation.