In 2008, 5,290 motorcyclists were killed nationwide and another 96,000 injured. In fact, despite a reduction in traffic accidents nationwide, the number of motorcycle fatalities increased for the 11th straight year. They now account for about 1 in 6 traffic fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

In Kentucky, 93 motorcycle riders lost their lives in 2008.

A study by the University of California and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found:

• Approximately 3 of every 4 motorcycle accidents involved another vehicle.
• In cases in which another vehicle was involved, two-thirds of the accidents were caused by the other vehicle violating a motorcycle's right-of-way.
• The failure of motorists to see motorcycles in traffic was the predominant cause of accidents - the driver of the other vehicle either didn't see the motorcycle or saw it too late to avoid a collision.
• Intersections were the most likely place for accidents, with the other vehicle violating the right-of-way and/or violating traffic control devices.
• Weather was not a factor in 98 percent of motorcycle accidents.

If you need to speak with a Bowling Green, Kentucky motorcycle accident attorney, call Crocker Law Offices for a free appointment to discuss your rights.

Let our family fight for your family! Call (800) 599-8888 today for a free and confidential appointment to discuss your rights.

10 things all car and truck drivers should know about motorcycles:

1. Look for motorcycles, especially at intersections.
2. Motorcycles may look farther away due to their small size. It may also be difficult to judge a motorcycle's speed. Predict a motorcycle is closer than it looks.
3. A motorcycle can be easily hidden in a car's blind spot, due to it's small size. Take an extra moment to thoroughly check blind spots and watch for motorcycles in traffic.
4. Don't assume motorcycles are speeding - they can appear to be moving faster than they really are because of their small size.
5. A slowing motorcycle will not always exhibit brake lights--motorcycles often slow down by rolling off the throttle or downshifting gears instead of applying the brakes. Allow more follow space and be cautious at intersections - predict a motorcycle may slow without visual warning.
6. Motorcycle turn signals are usually not self-canceling and riders can forget to turn them off. Make sure a motorcycle signal is for real.
7. Motorcyclists often move around in a lane, to be seen more easily, or to minimize the effects of wind and road debris. Understand this and share the road.
8. The ability to maneuver is one of a motorcycle's better characteristics, but don't expect a motorcyclist to always be able to dodge out of the way.
9. Stopping distances for motorcycles are nearly the same as for cars, but slippery roads can make stopping difficult. Allow more distance behind a motorcycle and give it room to stop.
10. Think of a motorcycle as a person.

Adapted from information provided by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.