In Ohio, the improved weather during the spring always sparks a flurry of outdoor activities. In 2021, it is a unique situation in that along with the nicer weather, a growing number of people are itching to get outside because of the possible improvement to the ongoing health crisis. Although this is undoubtedly positive, more people on the road raises the chance of auto accidents. Motorcyclists are a common sight on state roadways and spring and summer invites riders to head out. According to AAA and law enforcement these factors increase the importance of everyone keeping safety in mind.
Motorcycle accidents spiked in 2020
AAA and the Ohio State Highway Patrol note that the last five years have been especially dangerous for motorcyclists. In the state, there were more than 4,800 riders injured and 873 killed from 2016 to 2020. There was a one-third increase in motorcyclist deaths from 2019 to 2020. Injuries rose by almost one-quarter. 2020 was the worst year in the previous five for motorcycle safety. Statistically, spring is when more riders begin to hit the road and their numbers incrementally increase with the better weather. By the summer, the numbers begin to hit their high. In 2020, the most fatalities happened in July.
There are ways for motorcyclists to enhance their safety. Three-quarters of riders who died in the last five years did not have a helmet on. Wearing a helmet can significantly improve the chance of surviving a collision. Also, riders are advised to make sure they are within sight of drivers of passenger vehicles and trucks. Reflective equipment can also help. Adhering to speed limits, maintaining focus on the road and driving sober are also wise strategies. Even if riders follow the rules and listen to advice, that does not mean they will avoid a crash. Drivers can be reckless, negligent, drive at excessive speeds, drive while distracted and be under the influence. This raises the possibility of an accident.
Injured motorcyclists and families left behind should know their rights
Motorcyclists are granted very little protection when they are in car accidents. With that, they may suffer broken bones, brain trauma, spinal cord damage, internal injuries and more. Fatal motorcycle accidents are unfortunately common. A long hospital stay, rehabilitation and aftercare can be massively expensive. A fatality will mean funeral costs and a family not being sure as to how they will move forward in myriad ways. A legal filing might be needed to recover compensation for all that was lost. For advice, consulting with experienced professionals can help to determine the next step.