Summer is prime time to ride a motorcycle in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With more riders on the road, the risk for accidents increase. According to the Star Tribune, the number of motorcyclists dead in 2015 almost matches the number who died in 2014, even though the riding season remains far from over. Currently, in 2015, 44 motorcyclists have been killed in accidents. In 2014, 46 riders were killed in total.
These statistics don’t factor in the number of riders who have been injured this year while riding. Because motorcycles don’t have the same protective chassis a car provides, riders are more likely to sustain more serious injuries if they get into an accident.
Drivers who make an error have a seat belt and their car as a buffer. Motorcycle riders who are hit due to driver error, don’t have similar protections. The reality is that for riders, the stakes are higher in an accident.
Motorcyclists can take some measures to keep themselves safe. For instance, wearing a helmet reduces the risk of death or serious head injury. 29 of the riders killed in Minnesota this year were not wearing helmets. While helmets are not required by law, they can protect riders.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, in 2013, 60 motorcyclists were killed. Of the fatalities that took place that year, 21% involved alcohol, 20% involved speeding, and 18% involved distracted driving.
When automobile users engage in distracted driving or speeding, the results can be devastating for motorcyclists.
So, what can motorcyclists do if they’ve been involved in a crash? The Law Office of Martin T. Montilino, reminds motorcyclists that if they’ve been in an accident, they often have the same rights as any other person who has been injured in a crash.
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, it is important that you don’t make any statement regarding your negligence and fault. Don’t sign any paperwork claiming fault without first contacting a personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can review the details of your case and offer advice about who may or may not have been responsible. Take photos of property damage and injuries you sustain. Finally, it is important to seek qualified medical care, if you’ve been injured. A personal injury lawyer may be able to help you receive reimbursement for any medical expenses or rehabilitative care you may require, but it is important to keep detailed records of expenses.
A lawyer who understands traffic laws, motorcycle regulations, and how to work with insurers and adjusters may be able to assist you in recovering damages or in receiving a settlement. If a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, family may be entitled to receive money for wrongful death. The Law Office of Martin T. Montilino works closely with motorcycle accident victims and their families to help them seek justice. If you’ve been injured, don’t delay in contacting a lawyer. You may have a limited amount of time to recover damages and expenses.