Drivers need to be mindful that they’re sharing the road with motorcyclists
When the air warms in May, motorcycle riders in Massachusetts take to the roads. Many haven’t been on their bikes since the fall. Others might be new to riding.
With so many motorcycles sharing the roads with cars and trucks in May, it’s a time to reflect on safety.
At the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone, we would like to remind everyone that May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
Anyone who rides a motorcycle enjoys hitting the open road during warm weather, but it’s important to put safety first.
Unfortunately, riders are injured or killed in traffic motorcycle accidents in greater numbers than people in cars and trucks, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The organization offers helpful motorcycle safety tips for anyone using the road. Motorcycle riders are trained to ride defensively and avoid crashes.
Unfortunately, many drivers don’t respect motorcyclists. They may not realize how vulnerable to serious injury or death someone on a bike can be.
Tips to avoid causing a motorcycle accident
The following are tips drivers can follow to reduce the risk of causing a motorcycle accident:
- Use turn signals: Whether changing lanes or making a left- or right-hand turn, use your signal. You might not see a motorcycle in your blind spot. Your signal can give the rider a chance to move out of the way.
- Be mindful of blind spots: Motorcycles are small and can “disappear” in a blind spot. When changing lanes or making turns, use your mirrors and turn your head to ensure a motorcycle is not near your vehicle.
- Avoid tailgating: Rear-end motorcycle accidents can cause serious injuries or even fatalities in any traffic situation. When a motorcycle is involved, the accident almost always involves an injury or worse to the person on the bike. Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the motorcycle.
- Dim your headlights: At night, your high beams can make it difficult for oncoming traffic to see the road. Motorcyclists are more susceptible to the blinding lights of high beams. Remember to dim them when you see an approaching motorcycle.
What to do after a motorcycle accident?
With the riding season upon us, drivers will need to be mindful of the increased number of motorcycles sharing the road.
Unfortunately, many drivers make irresponsible choices. They might speed. They might text and drive. They might get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or using drugs.
If you or a loved one was injured or a loved one died in a fatal motorcycle accident in Massachusetts due to negligence, don’t wait to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer. The sooner you have a clear understanding of your legal rights and options, the better.
Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone today for a free consultation. We will listen to you and discuss your options.
The insurance company for the at-fault driver may try to devalue or deny your claim. In many cases, insurance companies try to shift the blame to the motorcyclist or downplay the severity of the injuries sustained.
At the same time, the victim might be facing significant medical bills, lost wages and experiencing pain and suffering, among other damages.
How a motorcycle accident attorney can help
Our motorcycle accident attorneys put experience and resources to work for clients and will aggressively fight for the compensation you deserve.
Talk to us today. There are no obligations, and we work on a contingency fee basis. That means no money is required in advance, and you pay nothing unless we obtain a settlement or favorable court verdict on your behalf. Tell them you mean business!