Although motorcyclists in California enjoy great weather and beautiful scenery, the state is still among the most dangerous for bikers, according to a recent survey conducted by Progressive Insurance.
According to Dan Kamionkowski, the company's Motorcycle Product Manager, California ranked 42nd in the country for motorcyclists because of the state's high gas prices, population density and motorcycle accident rates, as well as the poor road conditions throughout the state. Thanks to these factors, California is not an ideal place for motorcyclists.
"Based on our experience, we pulled together what we consider to be important data to help bikers make better riding decisions," Kamionkowski explained in a statement. "It's not the end-all-be-all list of variables, for sure; since preferences vary from rider to rider, but we hope it will help riders plan their next road trip."
Rough Riding in California
Roads in California are rough, and according to a report released by Smart Growth America, only 30 percent of the state's highways are in good shape. For bikers around the state, this is no surprise: Everyday, motorcycle riders must navigate around obstructions like potholes and problems with the roads' poorly maintained pavement.
While such conditions may be considered a mere annoyance for other drivers, they put bikers at considerable risk. The lighter weight of motorcycles makes it difficult to drive over potholes and when bikers do, they can either crash because of the obstruction or become unstable and get hit by motorists in cars and trucks.
As a result, California's roads are not only undesirable, they can be dangerous. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that California has the most motorcycle fatalities in the country - and the number of fatalities around the state has been steadily on the rise for the last ten years.
Motorcyclists face many dangers on the roadways from inattentive drivers failing to see motorcycles. Now studies show that another hazard contributing to motorcycle accidents are the roads themselves. Riders can be vigilant and drive defensively when facing other motorists, but dangerous California roadways may prove to be a risk difficult for riders to avoid. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident due to an unsafe or poorly maintained road, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and property damage. Speak to an experienced attorney to learn more about your legal options.
