Posted in News on May 29, 2015
Montana residents should be interested to find out that, on average, nearly 30 motorcycle riders lose their lives on Montana’s roads every year due to accidents and crashes. Over the last 10 years nearly 300 motorcyclists have lost their lives. In addition, nearly 1600 have suffered major injuries that were a result of crashes on Montana highways and roads.
Statistically, most of the incidents that involve motorcycle accidents occur either at intersections or during a lane change when the driver of a car or truck cuts in front of a motorcycle that they failed to see while they were performing a lane change maneuver.
To raise awareness of motorcyclists on the road, the month of May has been officially designated as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month to help remind the motoring public to be more aware of motorcycles on the road because motorcycle traffic tends to increase sharply during the summer months when weather is more favorable for operating motorcycles. It’s also intended to remind motorcycle riders that they need to take as many precautions as possible that will aid in preventing them from getting injured or losing their life should they get involved in an accident.
Due to the huge weight discrepancy between a motorcycle and practically any other vehicles on the road, motorcyclists are at a huge disadvantage when car and motorcycle collisions occur. Additionally motorcyclists have very little protection comparatively than the driver of a car or a truck. Their only protections are the clothes that they’re wearing and any helmet and other safety gear that they may have on.
Together motorists and motorcyclist can learn to share the road, be attentive, observe all traffic laws in place, and together accidents can be prevented or minimized. In the event an accident does occur and injuries or even death result, those who have suffered harm may have legal remedies. It is important to first consult with a personal injury lawyer on the matter.
Source: Fairfield Sun Times, “Watch For Motorcycles, Crashes Are Deadly For Riders,” Darryl L. Flowers, May 12, 2015