Motorcycle accident fatalities in 2016 totaled 5,286. On average, about 80,000 to 90,000 people are injured each year in motorcycle accidents. Unfortunately, a motorcycle does not provide much protection for a rider in a crash. Therefore, motorcyclists need to take advantage of other ways to protect themselves when riding. Below are five advances in motorcycle safety that could decrease motorcycle accident injuries and deaths.

1. Airbags in Motorcycle Clothing

Gloves, boots, leather jackets, and other motorcycle clothing can help protect a rider in the event of a motorcycle accident. However, motorcycle clothing equipped with airbags may provide a higher level of protection from motorcycle accident injuries. Airbags within the clothing inflate automatically when sensors indicate a crash is imminent.

2. Adaptive Motorcycle Headlights

A rider knows how frustrating and dangerous it can be to ride at night on roads with curves. The motorcycle’s headlight does not adequately illuminate the road when a rider is driving around a corner or curve. Adaptive motorcycle headlights pivot to point in the exact direction that the motorcycle is traveling to improve visibility when turning or following a curve.

3. Smart Motorcycle Helmets

Wearing a motorcycle helmet reduces the risk of death and injury in a motorcycle crash, according to research and statistics. Motorcycle helmets are constantly improving because of new technology. Bluetooth capability and custom apps allow riders to answer cell calls and follow GPS directions without taking their hands off the handlebars or their eyes off the road. A new smart helmet claims to have the ability to detect a crash and alert emergency contacts.

4. Automatic Transmission Systems

Traditionally, motorcycles have manual transmissions. New riders who have never operated a manual transmission must learn how to use the clutch and shift gears. For some riders, a manual transmission is extremely challenging. Some motorcycle manufacturers are producing motorcycles with automatic transmissions. A rider who cannot safely operate a manual transmission now has a safer option.

5. Motorcycle Anti-Lock Brake System

An anti-lock brake system (ABS) can significantly reduce the chance of a fatal motorcycle accident. The IIHS states the rate of fatal motorcycle accidents is 31% less for motorcycles equipped with an ABS compared to motorcycles without an ABS. In addition, stopping distances on both wet and dry surfaces are reduced with an ABS, which can help avoid a collision in some cases.

What Should I Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Chicago?

If you are involved in a motorcycle crash, immediately contact law enforcement. Calling 911 is usually the easiest and quickest way to contact the law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction over the accident scene. While you are waiting for EMS and police to arrive, taking photographs of the accident scene can be very helpful for your claim. However, do not risk your safety or another person’s safety to make videos or take pictures.

When the police officer arrives, calmly explain what occurred immediately before the accident, but do not admit fault. Saying you are sorry or you may have slightly contributed to the cause of the crash could significantly impact the amount of compensation you may receive for your accident claim.

If you were not transported to the hospital from the accident scene, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. A full examination by a medical professional protects your health and documents your injuries for an accident claim.

Before speaking with the insurance company for the other driver, it is prudent to meet with a Chicago motorcycle accident attorney to discuss your accident and legal rights. An insurance adjuster’s job is to protect the interests of the insurance company, which are not your best interests. Meeting with a personal injury lawyer in Chicago allows you to learn about the steps you need to take to maximize your chance of receiving full compensation for all injuries, losses, and damages caused by the motorcycle accident.