Summer time is when motorcyclists are the most passionate about riding. This is particularly true in the New England area where winters are long and brutal. So, it is natural that motorcyclists try to make the most of every summer day they get to ride. As we have more motorcycles on the road, summer is also the most dangerous time of year for motorcyclists when it comes to accidents, injuries and fatalities.
Most Hazardous Months and Times
We’re in July now and according to Progressive Insurance’s claims statistics concerning motorcyclists this is one of the most dangerous months with the average number of claims in this month being 78 percent higher than the average for the rest of the year. The summer months – June, July and August – are when most motorcycle accidents occur. Saturday is apparently the most dangerous day to ride.
In fact, the top five days of the year with the most motorcycle claims are all Saturdays throughout the summer. Also, in 2014, statistics showed there were more single-vehicle motorcycle claims than any other type. Progressive’s data shows that there were more single-vehicle claims than rear-end accidents or even street intersection collisions.
Prevention is the Best Way
Now that we know summer is the most dangerous time for motorcyclists, what can we do to avoid these potentially lethal crashes? There are things both motorcyclists and other motorists can do to enhance safety on our roadway. Motorcyclists should always wear protective gear including a helmet, full sleeve leather jacket, full-length pants and boots. Get proper riding and safety training. Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid riding in a vehicle’s blind spot. Be careful when you are riding in inclement weather. Never operate your motorcycle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Motorists should understand that they share the road with other vehicles including motorcyclists. Look consciously for motorcyclists before making a lane change or making a turn at a street intersection. Since motorcycles are smaller vehicles, they tend to be easily ignored. A number of accidents occur because larger vehicles fail to yield the right-of-way to motorcyclists. Always follow the rules of the road and understand that motorcyclists have the same rights as drivers of other vehicles.
If You Have Been Injured
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, please ensure that you file a police report and obtain a signed copy of the report. Take photographs of the scene including the vehicles involved and your injuries. Get contact information for everyone involved as well as for anyone who may have witnessed the collision. Be sure to get prompt medical attention, treatment and care. Do contact an experienced Rhode Island motorcycle accident lawyer who will stay on top of the official investigation and ensure that you are fairly and fully compensated for all your losses. Please contact us toll-free at 1-800-992-6878 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.
Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
Rate this Post
Loading...