Risk of Motorcycle Accidents Increase During the Summer

Scores of motorcyclists hit the road in the summer to take advantage of the beautiful weather and scenic drives. It’s no secret, however, that riding a motorcycle is a more dangerous method of transportation. 

Tragically, thousands of motorcyclists die each year in traffic-related accidents. For instance, according to data compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a staggering 5,286 motorcyclists were killed in traffic-related accidents in a recent year, more than 5 percent greater than the number of motorcyclist deaths the year before.

Most of these accidents occur during the summer months. Studies conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have found that 63 percent of motorcycle accidents occur between the months of May and September. 

Why Do Motorcycle Accidents Increase in Summer Months?

Many people take vacations and road trips during the summer months. With more vehicles on the road generating more congestion, the likelihood of motorcycle accidents increases.

With most grade schools out of session, an increased number of teen drivers are also on the road during the summer months. Because teen drivers often lack experience and aren’t always familiar with applicable traffic laws, there’s an increased likelihood that young drivers may cause accidents. 

The summer months also include federal holidays such as Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, and Labor Day. Accidents involving drunk drivers are more likely to happen on and around these holidays. 

What to Do If You’ve Been in an Accident

If you are a motorcyclist who has been in an accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, there are several important steps you should take after the accident to help you get the compensation you deserve:

• Seek medical attention – Motorcycle accident injuries tend to be more severe than car accident injuries simply because of the lack of safety features. Motorcyclists don’t have the physical framework passenger vehicles have to protect them in case of a collision. Additionally, most insurance companies require that you be evaluated by a medical professional within a “reasonable” amount of time after an accident. Otherwise, they may try to argue against your right to claim compensation. 
• Follow your treatment plan – Stick to the treatment plan provided by your doctor and attend any follow-up appointments. Failing to do so could give the other side cause to doubt the severity of your injuries.
• Gather documentation – Obtain a copy of the police report and your medical records. Gather banking statements to show loss of income. Obtain a vehicle repair or replacement estimate. Compile any photo and video evidence from the scene of the accident. 
• Avoid social media posts – Refrain from posting updates or images on your social media accounts, as anything you post could potentially be used by the insurance company to discredit your claim.
• Consult with an attorney – Working with a motorcycle accident attorney can be hugely beneficial to your case, especially if you are recovering from serious injuries. An attorney can take some of the burden off your shoulders by investigating your claim, gathering the necessary evidence to support it, and building a case for compensation. 

Summer Motorcycle Safety Tips for Motorcyclists

While you can’t control how other drivers behave on the road, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Following these safety tips can help ensure that you have a safe and fun trip, wherever you’re headed this summer. 

• Be prepared. Make sure you have your bike inspected and make any necessary repairs before you set off on your trip. 
• Wear a motorcycle helmet. Wear a Department of Transportation-approved helmet, a jacket, or shirt with long sleeves, boots, and gloves for maximum representation. If you own any reflective gear, wear it, or outfit your bike with reflective materials so that other drivers can better see you at nighttime. 
• Be aware of the weather conditions along your route before you set off. Motorcyclists are more vulnerable to inclement weather, so make sure you’re prepared for what Mother Nature has in store. 
• Don’t drive drunk. Driving while intoxicated impairs your ability to concentrate and to react when the traffic situation changes.
• Avoid lane splitting. This driving maneuver can be dangerous because other motorists might not see or expect you.

How Serious Injury Law Group Can Help 

The seasoned attorneys at Serious Injury Law Group are dedicated to fighting for the rights of motorcycle accident victims in our community. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Birmingham or another area of Alabama, you could be entitled to compensation to cover the cost of your medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and more. Contact us today for a consultation and to learn about your legal options for financial recovery.