On June 20, 2022, the Spokane County Sheriff's Office responded to North Echo Road after reports of a motorcycle crash. Both Spokane County Fire Department, AMR, and Deer Park Ambulance workers were on the scene when the deputy arrived, but the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. Investigations by Spokane County Traffic Unit technicians suggest that the motorcycle was headed north on North Echo Road when the motorcyclist failed to negotiate a left curve, exited the road, and crashed. The motorcyclist was wearing a helmet, and speed does not appear to have been a factor in the accident.

May was motorcycle safety month. While May might have come and gone, it is still a good idea for motor vehicle drivers to review ways that they can remain alert to the presence of motorcycles on our shared roads. A large number of motorcycle crashes occur because drivers fail to notice or take motorcyclists into consideration. The following are some things drivers can do to help keep motorcyclists safe. 

Avoid Distractions

Keep your cell phone as well as other distractions stored or away from you while driving. Distracted drivers are reported to cause more than half of all car crashes that occur. By avoiding distractions, you can keep yourself and motorcyclists safe.

Never Combine Driving and Alcohol or Drugs

Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs places both motorcyclists and motor vehicle drivers in danger. Alcohol is reported to be the largest factor in motorcycle-related deaths. Motorists should avoid the temptation and never combine driving with either alcohol or drugs.

Ask Passengers to Help Detect Motorcyclists

You should ask passengers in your vehicle to remain alert to the presence of motorcyclists. It is a good idea for people in vehicles to look out for things that the driver may not notice. Passengers have a different field of vision than drivers, and they can help to decrease the risk of accidents by speaking up. 

Give Motorcyclists Sufficient Room

Many people misjudge the position of motorcyclists when driving. Make sure to give motorcyclists sufficient room. Many motorcycle accidents happen because motor vehicles drivers rear-end motorcyclists. For accidents involving motor vehicles, this can result in less serious fender benders but can prove deadly for motorcyclists. The best thing that drivers can do to reduce the risk of motorcycle crashes is to remain alert to their environment. 

Do Not Rely on a Motorcyclist's Signaling

Motor vehicle drivers should avoid relying on signals made by motorcyclists. As certain as a motor vehicle driver might be, motorcyclists do not always act in a way that corresponds with signals. Additionally, sunlight can make signals by a motorcyclist impossible for a motor vehicle driver to spot. Motorcyclists can also leave signals on without meaning to do so.

Contact an Experienced Accident Attorney

When motorcycle accidents happen, the consequences are often devastating. To obtain the results you deserve if you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in the Spokane area, contact an experienced accident attorney. Contact West Law Office today to schedule a free case evaluation.