Motorcycles are beloved by many in New Mexico, and New Mexico is beloved by many motorcyclists. The state has some of the most scenic and enjoyable routes for motorcyclists anywhere in the nation.
New Mexico is home to several events catering to motorcycle enthusiasts. The Annual Red River Memorial Motorcycle Rally in Red River; is expected to attract 20,000 bikers.
The Annual AspenCash Motorcycle Rally in Ruidoso and The Annual Golden Aspen Motorcycle Rally at Ruidoso Downs Race Track.
While motorcycles are thrilling to ride in many locations around New Mexico, they remain dangerous because of how exposed riders are when they are involved in crashes with other motor vehicles. The unfortunate truth remains that no matter how cautiously bikers operate their motorcycles, negligent drivers of cars and trucks are often at fault for many crashes involving bikers.
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
May is Motorcycle Awareness Month. The U.S. Department of Transportation announced that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was launching the “Get Up to Speed on Motorcycles” campaign.
Previous NHTSA campaigns have included “Share the Road with Motorcycles.” The idea of Motorcycle Awareness Month is to help other motorists better understand motorcycle behaviors and learn how to safely operate in their vicinity.
Tips for Motorcycle Safety
New Mexico only requires motorcycle operators and passengers under 18 years of age to wear a helmet. All riders should still wear helmets to reduce their chances of severe head injuries, which can occur even in minor collisions.
Motorcyclists should also ride defensively, meaning that you should never assume other drivers can see you. It is very easy for people operating passenger vehicles to lose sight of motorcycles or misjudge their speeds or distances. This is an even bigger problem with the upsurge of distracted driving that now plagues our roads. It is also illegal to lane split in New Mexico; be sure to abide by laws if visiting our state.
Always make sure that you are in fit condition when you are preparing to ride. Avoid riding after drinking alcohol, and never ride a motorcycle when you are feeling fatigued. Also, be sure to inspect the motorcycle you are riding before you get on to make sure there are no safety concerns. Routine inspections can uncover potentially serious safety issues with a bike.
Read our article on the most popular route for motorcyclists in New Mexico.
How Can Parnall Law Help Me?
The Albuquerque motorcycle accident lawyers of Parnall Law provide aggressive representation for people who have been hurt in motorcycle crashes in our community. We fight to hold negligent parties responsible for the harm they cause, and we work to help those who have been injured get back on their feet.
Our firm handles motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis, so you will not have to pay anything unless and until you receive a monetary award. Call us or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with us today.
