For motorcycle enthusiasts, long weekends often mean one thing: the open road. There's nothing quite like the thrill of a sunny three-day weekend spent riding across scenic highways. Unfortunately, this time of joy comes with its share of risks. Statistics frequently show an uptick in motorcycle crashes during extended holiday weekends. Understanding why these crashes happen and how to protect yourself can make all the difference.
Why Do Motorcycle Crashes Spike on Long Weekends?
Several factors come together during long weekends to increase the likelihood of accidents involving motorcycles. Here’s what riders and drivers alike should be aware of:
1. Higher Traffic Volumes
When long weekends roll around, more people are on the road. Families head out for vacations, friends gather for camping trips, and day-trippers hit nearby attractions. This increase in traffic creates congestion and heightens the chances of accidents.
Scenario: On Memorial Day weekend, a motorcycle rider on a highway passes a line of vacationers in SUVs. Distracted by their GPS, a driver suddenly changes lanes without looking, sideswiping the rider.
2. Holiday Celebrations and Impaired Driving
Extended weekends often bring barbecues, parties, and nights out. Unfortunately, that also means a rise in impaired driving due to alcohol consumption. Riding a motorcycle already requires heightened coordination and focus, and the increased presence of impaired drivers puts motorcyclists at even greater risk.
Scenario: A rider is heading home on the Fourth of July when another driver, under the influence of alcohol, runs a red light and collides with the motorcycle.
3. Riders Taking Longer Trips
Long weekends are a prime time for motorcyclists to take extended road trips. A lack of familiarity with the roads and fatigue from traveling long distances can lead to tragic outcomes.
Scenario: On their first trip through a mountainous region, a rider misjudges a curve’s sharpness and veers off the road, leading to a serious crash.
4. Weather Conditions
Holiday weekends during summer or spring often bring fluctuating weather. High temperatures can cause dehydration and fatigue, while sudden rainstorms may lead to slippery roads.
Scenario: On Labor Day weekend, a group of bikers encounters a surprise rainstorm. The wet roads cause one rider to skid while braking, causing a pile-up.
5. Distracted Driving
During holiday weekends, more people are likely to multitask behind the wheel. Drivers may be checking directions, juggling kids in the backseat, or caught up in a conversation, all of which reduce their ability to see motorcycles.
Scenario: An SUV driver adjusts their playlist while in stop-and-go traffic, not realizing a motorcyclist has slowed ahead. The driver rear-ends the bike at a stoplight.
Legal Implications of Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle crashes can lead to significant legal challenges for the rider, especially if you’re trying to seek compensation for injuries, repair bills, or lost wages. Here are some legal aspects to be mindful of:
1. Comparative Negligence
Many states follow a comparative negligence system, where fault is divided between the parties involved. If you’re partially at fault for an accident, it could lower the damages you’re entitled to. For example, not wearing a helmet in a state where it’s legally required might be deemed a contributing factor to your injuries.
2. Insurance Challenges
Motorcycle insurance claims are often more complex than standard auto insurance claims. Insurance companies may try to dispute the severity of your injuries or argue that the motorcyclist was engaging in risky behavior. Legal representation can help you fight these tactics.
3. Personal Injury Lawsuits
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit. This can recover damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost income. However, proving fault often requires strong evidence, such as eyewitness testimony, accident reports, and even expert accident reconstruction.
4. Liability Laws
Each state has unique laws governing liability and compensation in motorcycle accidents. Understanding these laws is critical to protecting your rights. Consulting with an attorney experienced in motorcycle accident cases can help you receive fair treatment.
Tips for Staying Safe During Long Weekends
Although crashes are more common during long weekends, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and better protect yourself while riding. Here’s how to stay safe on the road:
1. Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
Familiarize yourself with the roads you’ll be taking and check for construction or closures. Knowing alternate routes can save you time and reduce stress.
Tip: Apps like Google Maps or Waze can alert you to heavy traffic and provide real-time updates.
2. Wear Proper Safety Gear
The right gear can save your life in an accident. Prioritize wearing a helmet, gloves, durable boots, and protective clothing. Opt for brightly colored or reflective gear to make yourself more visible to drivers.
3. Check Your Motorcycle
Before heading out, conduct a pre-ride inspection. Check tire pressure, brakes, lights, and mirrors. Make sure your bike is in top condition to handle the trip, especially if you’ll be traveling long distances.
4. Avoid Riding During Peak Hours
If possible, hit the road early in the morning or after the evening rush hour. Avoiding peak traffic hours helps you avoid congestion and frustrated drivers.
5. Stay Alert
Keep your eyes on the road, your hands on the handlebars, and your mind focused on riding. Watch for swerving or erratic cars, and anticipate sudden stops.
Tip: Defensive riding can make the difference. Assume nearby cars don’t see you and ride accordingly.
6. Take Rest Breaks
Long-distance riding can be mentally and physically draining. Schedule frequent stops to rest, hydrate, and stretch. Exhaustion clouds your judgment and reduces your reaction time.
Tip: Use your breaks to recheck your route and watch for weather updates.
7. Avoid Alcohol
While it’s tempting to celebrate the holiday with drinks, riding under the influence is dangerous and illegal. Save the celebration until after you’ve parked your bike for the day.
New Hampshire Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
If you are a motorcyclist looking to protect your rights in the event of an accident, know that Upton & Hatfield, LLP is here to serve the personal injury needs of our friends in Concord, NH. Our experienced attorneys understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face and offer dedicated support to secure the best outcomes for our clients. We invite motorcyclists in Concord, NH to contact us to discuss your legal options and ensure your peace of mind on the road. Let's work together to advance motorcycle safety and enjoy the open road responsibly. Contact us today at (603) 634-9560 to get started.