Representing Injured Bikers in Hartford and all of Connecticut
Riding a motorcycle is probably one of the most exhilarating forms of travel. However, it’s also one of the most dangerous. When taken proportionally, motorcycle accidents cause far more injuries to motorcyclists and their passengers than other forms of travel, and injuries suffered are often catastrophic. Though there are certain precautions and measures Connecticut area motorcycle drivers and riders can take to reduce the risk of harm suffered in an accident, such as wearing proper clothing and wearing a helmet. Motorcycle accidents tend to cause significant injury.
In Connecticut, Hartford motorcycle accident lawyer Andrew Cates has a track record of success representing accident victims. Attorney Cates understands the nuances of motorcycle accident lawsuits as well as how to negotiate with the insurance company to ensure his clients receive the maximum compensation available. If you or a loved one was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident in Connecticut, please call toll free at (800) 330-4988 or (860) 522-7044, or contact us online today to schedule your free phone consultation.
Motorcycle Accident Stats
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in 2013, motorcycle riders and passengers were approximately 26 times more likely to die in an accident than those traveling in a car or truck. In 2014 over 4,500 people died in motorcycle crashes, which was down from nearly 4,700 in 2013. In 2014 there were approximately 8.4 million motorcycles driven on U.S. roads, resulting in crashes leading to 92,000 injuries.
The NHSTA reports that in 2014 nearly 30% of motorcycle riders who were involved in fatal accidents had a blood alcohol concentration over the legal limit of 0.08. This is significantly higher than the 22% rate among car and truck drivers in the same year. Additionally, in 2013 one out of three motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding at the time of the accident, compared with 21% for car drivers.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents, just like all motor vehicle accidents, can have a wide variety of causes. Some of the more common causes of serious motorcycle accidents include:
- Distracted driving – Motorcycle riders are prone to being victims of distracted driving related accidents, as are all drivers who share Connecticut roads. Like other drivers, motorcycle operators may become involved in an accident due to their own distractions, or the distractions of other drivers on road. According to Distraction.gov in in 2014 3,179 people were killed in accidents involving distracted drivers nationwide.
- Drunk driving – Alcohol was a contributing factor in well over 30% of all motorcycle fatalities in 2014.
- Roadway obstructions – Bike riders are more prone to suffer serious injury after colliding with roadway obstructions such as large pot holes, safety cones, and traffic signs.
- Fender benders – Accidents which would have been minor between two automobiles may result in significant injury if they occur between an automobile and a motorcycle. For example, if a bike rider is tapped from behind, such a collision could send him or her hurtling through the air resulting in broken bones or even death.
Helmets Save Lives
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcycle helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatalities during a motorcycle crash. In 2013 it is estimated that motorcycle helmets saved 1,640 lives, and 1,669 lives in 2014.
What to do if You Have Been Involved in a Motorcycle Crash
If you have been involved in a serious motorcycle accident you may be entitled to significant compensation. It is very important that you do not talk to the insurance company on your own. Instead, contact one of our Connecticut motorcycle accident attorneys now to ensure that you obtain the maximum compensation allowable under law. Call our Hartford, CT law office today for free phone consultation and case evaluation.