California's wonderful weather and scenic highways are a motorcyclist's dream, and it is no wonder that the number of registered motorcycles is on the rise in our lovely state. Also rising are the numbers of motorcycle accidents, fatalities and related injuries which are generally quite severe. Although numerous studies cite other driver's negligence and error to be the cause of the majority of biker accidents, there are steps every rider can take to minimize the likelihood of a collision. After all, no motorcyclist wants to be in an accident but the pain caused by injuries and bike damage can be made far worse when the accident is the rider's fault.

Deprived of the body-protecting metal shell of a car or truck, motorcycle riders who survive accidents often come away with road burn, severe bruises and cuts, fractured, broken or shattered bones and internal organ injury, debilitating neck or back injuries or head injuries that can range from mild concussions to severe brain traumas. Normally requiring medical treatment the time spent in a hospital can cost $45,000 or more making the damage to the rider's bank account nearly as severe as the physical injuries.

To avoid motorcycle accidents it is important to understand their primary causes. Alcohol and drug abuse are at the top of the list, followed by lack of visibility to other drivers and distracted driving by those in other motor vehicles. The most accidents occur at night when the visibility is low and on weekends when alcohol consumption is more common; intersections and quick trips on familiar roads are also hot accidents spots.

Motorcyclists can decrease the likelihood of an accident first and foremost by refraining from consuming alcohol or other reaction-hindering substances like marijuana or pain killers before getting on a bike. Bikers, who use their signals, wear bright clothing, and ride with their headlamps on even in the daytime to increase their visibility are safer and their presence can further be made known through the use of motorcycle horns and the avoidance of riding in other vehicle's blind spots.

Riders can reduce their chances of injury from other distracted drivers by remaining hyper vigilant and aware whenever they take a trip. Furthermore, driving safely, following the posted speed limit and wearing appropriate protective gear like helmets can help minimize the physical injuries sustained and the events of and accidents.

Many of those responsible for determining settlement amounts are inclined to view motorcycle riders as risk-seeking, irresponsible individuals who are inherently at fault for any accidents there involved in. If you have already had a motorcycle accident and received appropriate medical care but are concerned about your liability, contact a personal injury lawyer familiar with motorcycle laws and insurance negotiations.