Over the weekend, there was a fatal multi-vehicle crash that involved a motorcycle on the Blue Ridge Parkway. According to WLOS ABC News Channel 13, the incident happened on Sunday afternoon near Ox Creek Road and Town Mountain Road, at the Tanbark Ridge Overlook. Very few details have been released about this crash, but we do know that a motorcyclist was killed. Initial reports indicate that a vehicle turned in front of a motorcycle and hit it. The impact caused the motorcycle to crash into another motorcycle. The rider on the first motorcycle was killed in the crash. At this time, there has been no word on whether or not any citations or charges have been made.
U.S. Motorcycle Crashes by The Numbers
Between 2015 and 2016, there was a 5.1 percent increase in motorcycle fatalities on U.S. roadways.
In 2016, there were 5,286 motorcycle riders killed in traffic crashes.
In 2016, motorcycle riders accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities.
Per vehicle mile traveled in 2016, motorcyclist fatalities occurred almost 28 times more frequently than passenger car occupant fatalities.
Helmets saved an estimated 1,859 lives in motorcycle crashes in 2016.
NHTSA on Motorcycle Safety
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is currently raising awareness about motorcycle safety on U.S. roadways. They have tips to help motorcycle riders improve their own personal safety. Additionally, they also want to remind drivers to Share the Road. Motorcyclists are one of the most vulnerable roadway user groups. Drivers are reminded to avoid distractions behind the wheel and be on the lookout for motorcycle riders, cyclists, pedestrians and all other roadway users.
Motorcycle Safety in Asheville
After any type of motorcycle accident, it’s a good idea to speak with a lawyer about your claim. A personal injury lawyer can fight to get you the compensation you deserve after an accident to cover medical expenses, lost wages and other costs associated with your injuries.
If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident in Asheville or in any of the surrounding Western North Carolina communities, contact the skilled and proven team at Davis Law Group, P.A. at 828-303-2842 for a free case consultation today.