Motorcyclists often get blamed when they’re injured in an accident. However, in many cases, motorcycle riders are hurt in crashes through no fault of their own. Recently, a 19-year-old man from Moosup suffered life-threatening injuries when the motorcycle he was riding was struck by a car in Plainfield. The car was driven by a 17-year-old who was backing out of his driveway when he hit the motorcyclist. The rider of the motorcycle was wearing a helmet, but had to be airlifted to an area hospital due to his injuries.
Motorcyclists are granted the use of a single lane of traffic, just as any other vehicle. Many motorcycle crashes are due to a motorist violating the motorcycle’s right-of-way or a motorist who is unaware that a motorcycle is present. And while distraction is a common excuse for a crash, it is not an acceptable one.
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries including broken bones, spinal injuries or head injuries. These types of injuries often require extensive medical treatment and a lot of lost work time, and sometimes, permanent disabilities. A personal injury claim may provide compensation for goods and services that someone who has been injured in a motorcycle accident might need, including physical therapy, adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs, vans or home remodeling if the victim’s home is not suitable for his or her special needs.
In addition, if a motorcycle accident has resulted in the death of the driver, compensation may be available to the surviving family member of the victim for losses, expenses and pain and suffering.
Source: The Hartford Courant, “Moosup Man Seriously Hurt in Plainfield Motorcycle Crash,” Peter Marteka, June 23, 2013