From smart home systems to lightning-speed computers to automobiles with advanced safety features, we rely on technology to improve many areas of our lives. Assistive driving equipment such as blind spot detectors, collision intervention systems and adaptive cruise control help reduce the risk of accidents, especially those caused by human error. Now, motorcycle manufacturers are following suit with technological advances designed to protect bikers from motorcycle accidents, who are almost 27 times more likely to suffer devastating injuries in the event of a crash.
If this happens, hiring an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer is the best way to receive the compensation you deserve.
Recommended reading: 12 Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
WHAT TYPES OF HIGH-TECH SAFETY FEATURES ARE AVAILABLE FOR MOTORCYCLES?
Here is an overview of the latest technology designed to improve safety and reduce the risk of serious injuries for motorcyclists:
Airbag clothing with automated crash detection
Vests, jackets, bodysuits and other wearable items incorporate smart airbags that inflate when the integrated computer system in the clothing detects an impending accident.
Anti-lock braking systems (ABS)
Similar to the ABS technology used in automobiles, these systems use speed sensors on both wheels to prevent brakes from locking. They also reduce stopping distance, which can lower the risk of a crash by as much as 31 percent, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Smart helmets
In addition to protecting the head in the event of a crash, these smart helmets have high-tech safety features such as crash detection technology, SOS beacons, advanced mirror systems, 360° view cameras and emergency buttons. Bikers can also choose from a variety of additional options that include speakers, microphones, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technology, rider-to-rider communication, GPS, group intercoms, video recording, noise control, smartphone app support, voice commands and music-sharing functions.
Recommended reading: Michigan Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Vehicle-to-vehicle communication (V2V)
Using sensors that detect a vehicle’s speed and position, this technology allows automobile drivers and motorcyclists to transmit messages and data between one another about potential dangers such as flat tires, mechanical issues or hazardous road conditions.
Electronic tire pressure monitors
By continuously tracking tire pressure and providing ongoing feedback, motorcyclists are able fill tires before they become dangerously low and maintain optimal tire pressure throughout the ride.
Recommended reading: Bad Motorcycle Tires Can Be Deadly: What Bikers Should Know about Tire-Related Motorcycle Accidents
LED light equipment
Many motorcycle accidents occur because drivers do not see the bike until it is too late to avoid a crash, especially at night or in bad weather. LED lights are much brighter than conventional motorcycle lights, which significantly increases visibility. Most kits offer a choice of light modes, including flashing or fading, to help motorcyclists signal their presence and intentions to others on the road.
Adaptive headlights
A significant number of accidents occur when a biker is hit by an automobile while turning a corner at an intersection. Adaptive headlights, originally designed for automobiles, have automatic turning beams or secondary lights that increase visibility when the bike turns a corner.
Stability Control Systems
Almost one-half of all fatal motorcycle accidents occur when the bike makes a wide turn that causes it to run off the road. A motorcycle stability control system facilitates tighter and safer turns by continually measuring the position and acceleration of the bike and using that data to regulate brake force and increase tire grip.
Recommended reading: Can Grass Clippings Cause Deadly Motorcycle Accidents? What Every Biker Should Know
Radar-based rider assistance and alert systems
Rider assistance systems use a combination of technologies that include intelligent radar sensors and other features that detect potential dangers, such as a vehicle in the biker’s blind spot, and automatically adapt speed when traffic conditions change.
Electronic throttles and cruise control
Electronic throttles (sometimes called “throttle by wire”) allow the use of electronic cruise control and improve traction control when necessary due to bad weather or hazardous road conditions.
However, even the most cutting-edge technology cannot prevent some crashes, and motorcyclists are far more likely to be killed or severely hurt than occupants of passenger cars. In addition, these cases can be lengthy and complex, especially when the Michigan No-Fault system is involved. Therefore, it is important to contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to receive the compensation you deserve.
Recommended reading: Who Is At Fault In A Lane Splitting Accident?
DO I NEED A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER IF I AM INJURED IN A CRASH?
Yes. There are many advantages to hiring a knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer if you or a loved one is injured in a crash.
Here are some of the most convincing reasons:
Winning larger verdicts and settlements
Research shows accident victims represented by personal injury lawyers receive more compensation than those without legal representation.
Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
Many victims make the costly mistake of accepting a hasty – and usually inadequate – insurance settlement. An experienced attorney knows what your claim is worth and will fight for every dollar you deserve.
Navigating the No-Fault insurance maze
When a motorcyclist is injured in a crash with an automobile, benefits are usually provided by the No-Fault policy covering the motor vehicle. Because these claims involve a complex set of rules, hiring a knowledgeable lawyer is essential to receiving the maximum amount of compensation.
Obtaining necessary documents and meeting filing deadlines
Building a convincing case involves gathering extensive medical records and submitting numerous forms within specific time limits. A motorcycle accident lawyer handles every aspect of the legal process so victims can focus on their recovery.
Providing courtroom representation
While most personal injury cases are settled out of court, sometimes a trial is the best option for winning the compensation a victim deserves. In these situations, it is essential to hire a skilled lawyer with a history of courtroom success.
Recommended reading: Can An Injured Motorcycle Passenger Sue For Compensation?
CALL US TODAY TO GET THE BERNSTEIN BIKER ADVANTAGE®!
Because many of our lawyers and staff members ride, we know the pleasures and pitfalls of riding a motorcycle. We also understand how devastating a motorcycle accident can be for the biker and their loved ones. And, we have a thorough knowledge of Michigan motorcycle law and the complex legal issues these claims typically entail. With our extensive experience, comprehensive legal expertise and vast resources, you can count on us to build a successful case and win the compensation you deserve.
That’s the Bernstein Biker Advantage®.
Motorcycle accident laws are complicated, but finding the right motorcycle accident lawyer is simple.
Click the button below or call 1-800-CALL-SAM today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our legal team.
The post INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY ENHANCES MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT SAFETY: SMART HELMETS, WEARABLE AIRBAGS AND MORE appeared first on The Sam Bernstein Law Firm.