During the warm weather months in Connecticut, many people take their motorcycles out to hit the open road. They enjoy the thrill of riding on two wheels and taking in the picturesque landscapes. However, with the joys of motorcycle season come heightened risks for accidents.
Watch out for motorcycles during warm weather months
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) issued a press release reminding drivers and motorcyclists to keep safety in mind during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in May and throughout the riding season.
An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Connecticut knows how crashes can have a devastating impact on victims and their loved ones. Motorcycles are often less visible to other motorists, making them particularly vulnerable to collisions and accidents that result in severe and sometimes fatal injuries.
How to avoid crashes with motorcycles
Vehicle drivers must exercise caution and vigilance when sharing the road with motorcyclists. In many car vs. motorcycle accidents, the driver of the car walks away unscathed, while the rider on the bike is often seriously injured or killed.
Here are tips for drivers to reduce the risk of causing a motorcycle accident:
- Check Your Blind Spots: Motorcycles can easily disappear into blind spots, especially in larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs. Before changing lanes or making turns, be sure to check your mirrors and physically look over your shoulder to ensure there are no motorcycles in your blind spots.
- Keep a Safe Following Distance: Rear-end collisions are a common type of accident involving motorcycles. Always maintain a safe following distance between your vehicle and the motorcycle in front of you, allowing for ample time to react in case of sudden stops or emergencies.
- Use Your Turn Signals: Signaling your intentions well in advance can help motorcyclists anticipate your movements and react accordingly. Whether changing lanes, turning, or merging onto the highway, always use your turn signals to communicate with other road users.
- Stay Sober and Alert: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs your ability to react and make sound judgments on the road. Never drive impaired, and always stay focused and alert behind the wheel, especially when sharing the road with vulnerable road users like motorcyclists.
What is the most common motorcycle accident injury?
Motorcycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, but the most common and severe one is a head injury. Despite the use of helmets, motorcyclists are still at high risk for traumatic brain injuries or concussions due to the lack of protection compared to enclosed vehicles. However, there are several other common injuries that motorcyclists often face:
- Road Rash: When a rider slides across the pavement, the friction can cause severe skin abrasions, known as road rash. This injury can range from mild to severe and, if not properly treated, lead to infections.
- Fractures: Motorcyclists frequently suffer broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs. These fractures can occur when a rider is thrown from their bike or if a limb gets caught under the motorcycle.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal injuries are particularly devastating, often resulting in partial or complete paralysis. The impact of a crash can cause severe damage to the spinal cord, leading to long-term disability.
- Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, such as damage to the liver, spleen, or kidneys, may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening. These injuries require immediate medical attention to prevent serious complications.
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, which is why it's crucial for vehicle drivers to share the road responsibly. By being aware of motorcycles, giving them enough space, and checking blind spots, drivers can help prevent these serious injuries and ensure everyone's safety.
How a motorcycle accident lawyer can help
In Connecticut, more than 50 people die on motorcycles each year. The number jumped to 65 in 2022, which was the highest number of motorcycle fatalities in more than 35 years, according to CTDOT.
If you've been injured or lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash, you may feel overwhelmed. A skilled injury lawyer can be an invaluable ally, guiding you through the legal process and fighting to protect your interests every step of the way.
Dealing with insurance companies can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you're trying to recover from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. Insurance companies are notorious for offering lowball settlements or denying valid claims altogether to protect their bottom line.
Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone & Morelli, serving all of Connecticut. We will handle all communication and negotiation with the insurance company on your behalf, fighting for fair and just compensation for your injuries, medical expenses (past, present, and future), lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Talk to us today. We take cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win. There’s no obligation. Don't hesitate to reach out for help – you don't have to face this challenging time alone.