A fatal motorcycle crash occurred in Boise, near Federal Way, on Gowen Road. Police say the motorcyclist was heading west when another vehicle hit him while merging from the westbound on-ramp from I-84.
The biker was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. The accident is still under investigation as Boise police try to reconstruct the scene. View the original news article: Boise Police Investigate Deadly Crash on Gowen Road.
Risks of a Motorcycle Accident
Driving between motorcycles and other motor vehicles can sometime seem like oil and water. Whether you operate a motorcycle or not, there are important precautionary behaviors ALL motorists must do to ensure everyone drives and arrives safely. One of these important driving skills to remember is what to do when merging.
Merging is one of the top reasons motorcycles and other vehicles collide. When it comes to vulnerability, there is no such thing as a “fender bender” if a motorcycle is hit by another car or vehicle.
Key Facts About Motorcycle Accidents
- According to the latest data available from the Federal Highway Administration, there were 8.6 million private and commercial motorcycles on U.S. roads in 2015, compared with 8.0 million in 2009.
2015 Motorcycle Accident Data
- According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 4,976 people died in motorcycle accidents in 2015, up 8.3 percent from 4,594 in 2014. In 2015, 88,000 motorcyclists were injured, down 4.3 percent from 92,000 in 2014.
- In 2015, 40 percent of motorcyclists killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes were not wearing a helmet.
- The fatality rate per registered vehicle for motorcyclists in 2015 was six times the fatality rate for passenger car occupants, according to NHTSA’s background on motorcycle crashes.
For more motorcycle accident statistics, check out Safety Traffic Facts.
Watchful Eyes While Merging to Prevent Auto Accidents
Motorcyclists and motor vehicle drivers universally need to exercise caution when entering and exiting the roadways, always checking for blind spots and unexpected travelers. Merging is more than just about right-of-way and speed. Merging can quickly turn to mayhem if all driver’s eyes aren’t constantly watching and anticipating the shift in existing traffic.
Mindful Merging Maneuvers
Being aware of the safest and most effective ways to merge on and off the highway is critical to keeping roadways safe for all drivers. Here are some tips to keep in mind when merging onto the highway:
- Always yield to drivers already on the highway. Do not stop (unless absolutely necessary) while merging onto the highway.
- Adjust your speed prior to entering the roadway to match the current flow of traffic.
- Only cross one lane of traffic at a time, signaling between each maneuver.
- Watch for gaps in traffic to merge from exterior lanes-always attempt merges from behind a vehicle instead of in front.
- Ramps merging off/on of the highway are for adjusting speeds, not merging.
- Do not merge until the solid line ends.
- Use your turning signal at least 100 feet before merging or lane change.
- Always look before merging, especially checking the blind spot of the vehicle
- Pass vehicles on the left side, increasing passing distance to pass large vehicles
- Always maintain your speed to match the flow of traffic, adjust this speed for adverse weather conditions, as well as the exit ramp design.
As a general rule, always assume that the person closest to your merge is unaware of your presence. Being a defensive, and attentive driver to avoid merging accidents. When it comes to highway travel, the dangers and risks grow with the rising speed. Be sure to make every move with caution and safety in mind while merging onto roads and highways.
Fielding Law Group is Here to Help with Your Auto & Motorcycle Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured or hurt in a highway merging accident, call Fielding Law Group today for a free consultation of your case. Don’t let an accident wreck YOU!
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