Last year, New Hampshire witnessed a surge in fatal motorcycle accidents, marking the deadliest year for motorcyclists in nearly two decades. According to a press release issued by New Hampshire’s Office of Highway Safety in October 2023, the state reported seeing 39 fatalities, compared to an average of 22 deaths annually over the past 20 years. This increase has state officials concerned. Motorcycle accident-related deaths haven’t been this numerous since 2005 when 43 lives were lost in crashes.
“This season’s fatality numbers are particularly distressing,” says Larry Crowe, coordinator of motorcycle rider training at the state Division of Motor Vehicles. “Making smart choices, like slowing down, as well as aggressively predicting traffic issues, can help prevent a crash.”
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident or a loved one died in a motorcycle crash due to someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to compensatory damages. Reach out to the New Hampshire Personal Injury lawyers at Tenn And Tenn, P.A., as soon as possible to learn more. Call us today at 888-332-5855 or contact us online for a free consultation. We represent clients throughout New Hampshire, from Berlin to Brattleboro.
How to Avoid Motorcycle Accidents and Injury
Motorcyclists face heightened risks of accidents and injuries compared to car drivers due to several factors. Unlike cars, motorcycles lack an outer shell or seatbelts to shield riders, making them more vulnerable on the road. Additionally, motorcycles are often harder for other drivers to spot, increasing the likelihood of being overlooked. These factors contribute to the susceptibility of motorcyclists to accidents while riding.
Both motorcycle drivers and passengers can adopt measures to mitigate these risks. Out of the 39 fatalities resulting from motorcycle accidents in New Hampshire in 2023, 35 were motorcycle drivers, three were passengers, and one was a moped driver. While not all accidents can be prevented, individuals can take proactive steps to reduce the risk of crashes and associated injuries:
Slow down. Speeding reduces your ability to react to hazards like debris or other vehicles. It can lead to dangerous situations, such as entering turns too fast or losing control. Maintaining a safe speed ensures better reaction time and maneuverability to avoid accidents, especially in inclement weather.
Stay vigilant. Scan the road constantly as you’re riding. Be alert to cars making abrupt lane changes and swerving, and stay on the lookout for leaves or branches on the road, potholes, and other potential hazards. Pay particular attention at intersections, as 35 percent of motorcycle crashes occurred in these areas in 2020.
Increase your visibility. Wear bright colors and add reflectors to your clothes, gear, and bike to help ensure that other motorists see you. Also, use headlights day or night, and ride in the most visible lane sections.
Wear a helmet. New Hampshire has no helmet law, but that doesn’t mean it’s not an excellent idea to wear one. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), helmeted riders have a 73 percent lower fatality rate than unhelmeted riders. In addition, wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of severe injury by 85 percent. Invest in a top-quality helmet that fits well.
Choose proper gear. Along with a helmet, wearing the right gear can go a long way toward preventing or minimizing injury. Whether driving or a passenger, choose thick gear that fits snugly but is not restrictive and that provides extra protection at the shoulder, back, elbow, hips, and knees. Also, choose durable boots and gloves specifically made for motorcycle riding.
Communicate with passengers. When you have a passenger on your bike, it’s not the best time for conversation. However, two pairs of eyes can be better than one, and sometimes, you’ll need to alert each other to potential safety issues. Develop a non-verbal system of communication that allows you to point out dangers and other hazards to each other.
Keep your bike in good condition. A well-maintained motorcycle is safer to ride. Regular maintenance ensures that essential components like brakes, tires, lights, and suspension are functioning properly, reducing the risk of accidents due to mechanical failures.
How a New Hampshire Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, speak with an experienced New Hampshire motorcycle accident lawyer immediately. The skilled lawyers at Tenn And Tenn, P.A. have helped New Hampshire motorcyclists fight for the fair and full compensation they deserve. We represent clients throughout the state, including Derry, Portsmouth, Manchester and more. Contact us today at888-332-5855 or online for your free evaluation.