May marks Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, an initiative by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) in collaboration with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This campaign emphasizes the shared responsibility of all road users to ensure motorcyclist safety awareness.
Why is motorcycle safety awareness important?
Motorcyclists face a significantly higher risk of injury and death on the road compared to other vehicle occupants. In Connecticut alone, over 50 motorcyclists die each year due to traffic accidents. Roughly 65 fatalities were recorded in 2022—the highest in over three decades.
According to the NHTSA, 6,218 motorcyclists died in traffic accidents in 2022. That accounted for 15% of highway fatalities that year despite representing a smaller fraction of road users. Alarmingly, motorcyclists are 22 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger car occupants.
What is the most common cause of a motorcycle accident?
Motorcycle accidents often result from driver negligence, such as:
- Turning left without checking for oncoming motorcycles.
- Failing to check blind spots.
- Not yielding the right of way, especially at intersections.
- Following motorcycles too closely.
- Misjudging motorcycle speed and distance.
- Improperly changing lanes.
- Not using turn signals.
- Distracted driving, such as using mobile devices.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
- Opening car doors into the path of motorcycles ("dooring").
What can a driver do to be more aware of motorcyclists?
CTDOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto highlights the importance of collective action in promoting road safety. "Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month reminds us that safety is everyone’s responsibility. By practicing safe driving habits, we can work towards reducing roadway fatalities and creating a safer environment for all," he said in a statement.
To combat the dangers motorcyclists face, CTDOT encourages several safety practices:
- Always check blind spots before changing lanes.
- Maintain a safe distance to avoid rear-end collisions.
- Increase vigilance during adverse weather conditions.
- Never share a lane with a motorcycle.
- Use turn signals earlier to inform motorcyclists of your intentions.
- Take an extra look for motorcycles before turning left.
What should you do if you are a victim of a motorcycle accident?
Motorcycle accidents can have devastating consequences. Many motorcyclists suffer from broken bones, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, road rash, and even fatal injuries. Getting compensated isn't an easy process. Insurance companies often stereotype motorcyclists as reckless and use tactics to reduce the amount of money they pay to crash victims.
That's why it's so important to have an attorney who can build a strong case on your behalf from the start. See a doctor as soon as possible, then contact a motorcycle accident lawyer who can inform you of your rights and walk you through the process of filing a claim. If the at-fault driver's insurance company contacts you, avoid giving them a recorded statement, which can later be used against you.
Contact Vishno Law Firm today
At Vishno Law Firm, Attorney Jeremy Vishno understands the challenges victims of motorcycle accidents and their families face. With over 20 years of experience, he can investigate your motorcycle crash and fight to recover the maximum compensation you deserve under Connecticut law.
If you were hurt in a motorcycle crash in Fairfield County, CT, don't face the aftermath alone—contact us online or call us to schedule a free consultation today. We take a personalized approach to fighting for your rights and helping you get your life back on track.