At the law office of Tremont Sheldon P.C., we share the excitement other Connecticut residents have about the warmer weather. This may be especially true if you are a motorcyclist who has been waiting all year to get your bike on the road. However, we also know that the spring and summer months can mark an increase in traffic dangers, especially for motorcyclists. With more bikers dusting off their rides and hitting the road, drivers need to be aware of their presence.
May is designated as Motorcycle Safety Month, according to the National Safety Council. Motorcyclists face significant hazards when they brave the roads, as the statistics point out. In 2017 alone, 5,172 motorcyclists and passengers were killed in accidents across the country, making up 14% of all fatal accidents that year. You may be interested in learning the most common dangers that bikers encounter:
- Drivers turning left or entering the road without noticing an oncoming motorcycle
- Drivers who fail to look in their mirror or blind spot before changing lanes
- Parked drivers who do not check for an approaching motorcycle before opening their car door
- Weather and poor road conditions exacerbated by speeding or distracted drivers
As you can see, many road hazards can be worsened when other drivers fail to drive courteously or to realize that motorcyclists also share the roads. You can increase your safety by knowing the hazards and wearing a helmet, but you cannot change the driving habits of others. As our motorcycle accident page explains, a negligent driver may be held responsible for your injuries.
