Motorcycle Safety Tips
With the weather warming up, motorcyclists are heading back out on the roadways. It’s a great way to cruise the wonderful scenic roadways here in Massachusetts. However, it can be dangerous, especially if you are not aware of your limitations. Here are some steps to take if you’re involved in an accident, and a few safety tips as you head out to enjoy your ride.
Motorcycle accidents are very common, unfortunately. The main reasons for motorcycle accidents include speeding, reckless driving, alcohol, and other passenger vehicles failing to recognize motorcycles in traffic. Because a motorcycle is smaller, the visibility is very limited due to other vehicles or obstacles on the roadway. Victims are often left with substantial medical bills, painful injuries, and a damaged motorcycle.
The number of on-road registered motorcycles in the U.S. has nearly doubled to 8.6 million in 2020, up from 4.3 million in 2002, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. With more motorcycles on the road, the number of accidents is up also. There are approximately 130,000 motorcycle accidents in this state per year, According to the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security in Massachusetts. Motorcycle crashes in Massachusetts account for roughly 80% of life-threatening and tragic accidents.
What to do if you or someone with you has been involved in a motorcycle crash
Following a crash, first, check for injuries and then take the appropriate measures to ensure the safety of those who were in the crash, bystanders, and moving vehicles.
- Get out of the roadway safely if possible
- Call the police and ambulance if necessary
- Exchange insurance information
- Gather information. Take photos of the vehicles/bikes involved, landmarks, signs, weather conditions, roadways, etc.
- If your injuries are too serious to accomplish any of the above, try to get the contact info of any witnesses or anyone who stopped to help you.
Determining Who is at Fault in a Motorcycle Accident
When there has been an accident, a determination must be made about who is at fault. It can be tricky to determine liability in these types of cases. Typically, the actions of both drivers must be considered and looked at. Many times, cars are deemed liable because they fail to see motorcyclists or give them the right amount of space while on the road. However, a motorcyclist may have shared fault if they switched lanes rapidly, tried to squeeze illegally in traffic, or otherwise didn’t follow the law.
The key questions come down to:
- Were one or both drivers driving according to the law/rules or recklessly?
- Did one or both try to avoid collision or danger?
After all of this chaos, it is now time to contact a Massachusetts motorcycle accident lawyer given the importance of proving negligence. Keep in mind that an experienced counsel may be able to help hold the other party accountable for your injuries, emotional suffering, and financial losses. Why should hire an attorney in case of a motorcycle accident? The attorney will help you in gathering significant evidence, proving your damages, and negotiating with insurance companies.
Safety Tips
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires you to have a valid license in order to operate a motorcycle. You can find more details here.
- Always wear motorcycle gear including a full-face helmet certified by the Department of Transportation (DOT); eye protection; ankle footwear; gloves; jacket, etc
- Check the weather and drive based on conditions
- Before getting on the road, inspect your bike for any red flags.
- If you are carrying any cargo, secure it properly
- Follow the traffic rules
- Stay alert to potential hazards
- Be visible to other drivers
Do you need a motorcyclist accident attorney in Massachusetts? If you or someone else have been in a motorcycle accident and need help or have any questions, schedule a free consultation here with Attorney Mark Horrigan or call at 781-599-7477 to get started. Remember, we are here to fight for you!
Attorney Mark Horrigan’s office is located in Lynn, MA and he will do everything in his power to help maximize the compensation of your injury claim while giving you peace of mind and reassurance. He will guide you through this complex process while protecting your rights and interests.