Recently, I was out for a walk and I saw a sign reminding people that it is motorcycle season and everyone should be on the lookout to not miss motorcyclists. After reading the sign and by the time I finished my walk I came up with a few “unofficial rules” that automobile drivers should be aware of this time of year and through the summer months.
Rule 1. Don’t assume that every vehicle on the road is a car or truck. Motorcycles are ever increasing in popularity and are everywhere. They are in the city as well as suburbs and the country. Check your blind spot when changing lanes because motorcycles are much smaller than the average vehicle and just because you can see a normal sized vehicle in your rearview mirror does not mean you will see a motorcycle without checking your blind spot.
Rule 2. Motorcycles are generally much quicker than automobiles and trucks. This means that you must constantly check to the rear and to the side while you are driving as a motorcycle can quickly approach from the rear and surprise you if you are not paying attention.
Rule 3. The same rules for passengers in automobiles and pickup trucks applies to motorcycles. If your motorcycle driver is impaired for any reason do not get on the back of the motorcycle. Many motorcycle accidents are alcohol related. Although injury is likely if you are a passenger in the car crash, your chances of severe injuries are much greater in a motorcycle crash. It is not uncommon for motorcyclists to bar hop. Pay attention to the driver. The effect of alcohol on a warm summer day can have an accumulative effect so that the driver may seem fine after the first stop or two but by the third may be substantially impaired. If you cannot operate a motorcycle and your driver is impaired ride with someone else or stay put so that the driver doesn’t take off alone and risk injuring him or herself or others. Take a taxi, call a friend but by all means do not get on the back of a motorcycle with a driver who is impaired by alcohol or drugs. It is simply not worth it!
We have been representing motorcyclists as well as passengers on motorcycles injured by the negligence of motorcyclists as well as other motor vehicle drivers for 28 years. We take these cases on a contingency fee basis so there are never any fees unless and until there is a recovery. For a no cost, no obligation consultation contact me to discuss your options and rights. At Krueger Hernandez & Thompson SC, we listen, we care, we get results!
Please feel free to contact me in the Madison area at (608) 824-9540, in the Baraboo area at (608) 356-3961 or statewide at (866) 455-2993.
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