Riders Protecting Riders - Are Motorcycle Fatalities Increasing in NH?

NH has been leading a national trend in increased motorcycle fatalities over the last year[1], and motorcycle safety is a hot topic among legislators and concerned parents and drivers in our state.  Some might attribute the surge in motorcycle-related injuries and deaths to the lack of a mandatory helmet law in NH, or to simple two-day licensure courses.  But NH has had these policies in place for some time now, so this doesn’t go far enough to explain the recent surge.

Part of the explanation for the bump in motorcycle fatalities may lie in the fact that more people are riding motorcycles than in previous years.  Bikes have better fuel efficiency, and high gas prices make motorcycle riding an economical alternative to taking the car.  We had a mild winter last year, and more people could be seen out on their bikes as early as February or March.  A rebounding economy means more people will be purchasing motorcycles.

Yet speeding and impaired riding continue to account for a large share of fatal motorcycle crashes. Almost half of these fatal incidents last year involved no other vehicles, and reckless riding with/without the influence of alcohol or drugs caused the motorcyclist to lose control. 

These kinds of deadly mistakes are easy to avoid.  Never drink or use drugs before operating any kind of vehicle.  Maintain the proper speed limit at all times.  In your interactions with other vehicles, exercise reasonable caution.  Avoid tailgating. Unless you are wearing bright, highly visible clothing, the driver behind you may not notice you and rear end you.  Operate outside of other drivers’ blind spots in a multiple lane highway.  Give yourself plenty of time when turning on to the highway.  Don’t risk cutting off other vehicles. Most importantly, drive defensively and watch out for the careless and distracted driver.

Your safety means the world to your family.  NH has witnessed a rash of needless fatalities on the road because of a failure to maintain reasonable safety guidelines by riders and car drivers.  Act responsibly and enjoy the freedom of riding without fear of injury.

Avoiding an injury is always preferred to hiring Normand & Associates to pursue your insurance claim for injuries.

[1] Nashua Telegraph. 4/25/13. “Motorcycle Fatalities Rising, Even Faster in NH than Nationwide.”

Articles contained here are not intended to provide legal advice, only providing general information. We encourage individuals to consult with an attorney regarding individual circumstances.