4 Motorcyclists Killed in Virginia Over Fourth of July Holiday

Reports indicate that four motorcyclists were killed in Virginia over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

According to police reports, motorcyclists accounted for 50 percent of the traffic fatalities that took place in Virginia over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

During the three-day period, eight people lost their lives in traffic collisions in Virginia. Of those, four of the individuals killed were riding motorcycles.

In all, there were 566 motor vehicle accidents in Virginia during the Fourth of July holiday weekend this year.

Motorcycle Crashes in Virginia

According to the Virginia Highway Safety Office, 63 motorcyclists were killed in traffic accidents in 2013 – accounting for 8.5 percent of all traffic deaths that year.

Overall, there were almost 2,080 motorcycle accidents in Virginia in 2013. Those crashes resulted in 1,828 motorcyclists suffering personal injuries – accounting for almost 3 percent of all injuries suffered in motor vehicle accidents that year.

Virginia Motorcyclists: Protect Yourself on The Road

In the United States, the number of motorcyclists killed in traffic accidents has been on the rise over the past decade. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the number of motorcyclist fatalities rose 55 percent from 2001 to 2008. During that period, over 34,000 motorcyclists died in collisions, while over 1.2 million motorcyclists were taken to the emergency room to treat injuries suffered in such collisions.

Other motorists are often responsible for crashes involving motorcycles. Motorcyclists can take some action to reduce the severity of injuries suffered in collisions. For instance, motorcyclists can wear helmets when on the road.

It is important to note, however, that while it is advisable to wear a helmet – and required for all motorcyclists under Virginia law – doing so does not eliminate the chance of serious consequences resulting from a collision. Reports indicate, for example, that the four motorcyclists killed over the Fourth of July weekend were all wearing helmets when the collisions took place. Nevertheless, wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of serious head injuries or even death in some cases.

In addition, motorcyclists should wear clothing that will provide some protection in the event of a crash and should ensure the lights on their motorcycle are working properly. As with any motorist, motorcyclists should never ride when under the influence of substances that could impair their ability to ride safely, such as alcohol or drugs.

When a motorist causes a collision with a motorcycle, the injuries suffered by the motorcyclist are generally severe. If you or someone you love has been involved in a motorcycle crash in Virginia, hold the driver responsible for the crash accountable. Consider talking to a skilled personal injury attorney, who will work on your behalf to obtain the financial remedies to which you may be entitled.