Lynz Ross Of Des Moines died on Wednesday from fatal injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident over the weekend. She was a passenger on a motorcycle that crashed with a vehicle in the middle of the night on Sunday.
According to police, the motorcycle was speeding northbound when it crashed into a vehicle that was crossing 19th Street. The vehicle apparently entered the intersection when the light was green. The driver of the vehicle sustained minor injuries while the operator of the motorcycle is still in the hospital in critical condition.
How to Reduce the Risk of a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents can be fatal for motorcyclists because they lack the protection of a vehicle. However, as a motorcycle accident lawyer Des Moines, IA residents trust from Des Moines Injury Law can confirm, you can take steps to reduce your risk of getting into a collision.
- Don’t speed. When you are on a motorcycle, it can be tempting to go fast and feel the wind blowing through your hair. However, driving above the speed limit is especially dangerous for motorcyclists. When you go above the speed limit, it can make it more difficult to react to hazards and see upcoming turns. If it is raining, you may want to slow down even more.
- Avoid sharing lanes with cars. This is one of the biggest mistakes motorcyclists make. You should never share a lane with another car. Drivers may not expect to share a lane with motorcycles, so they may not look out for them.
- Be visible. Motorcycles are much smaller than vehicles, so they can be more difficult to spot. That is why it is important to make yourself as visible as possible. Wear bright clothes and put reflective tape on your motorcycle. This way, other motorists will see you better.
- Be alert. When you are behind the wheel of a motorcycle, you must always remain alert. If you get distracted for even a moment by a smartphone or something else, you risk an accident. If you keep your eyes and attention on the road ahead, you can react more quickly to hazards.
- Maintain your motorcycle. Just like regular vehicles, motorcycles require regular maintenance. If you neglect to maintain and repair your motorcycle, you may increase your risk of getting into an accident.
- Don’t drink and drive. Driving drunk can be especially dangerous for motorcyclists. When you are under the influence of alcohol, you may have poor judgment and can’t react to situations as quickly.
- Wear a helmet. Before you get on a motorcycle, you should put on your helmet. Although wearing a helmet might not prevent a motorcycle accident, it can prevent serious head injuries in the event of a crash.
If you have been hurt in a motorcycle crash, you should schedule a consultation with a Des Moines motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss your case in detail.