New Hampshire is on track for one of the deadliest years for motorcycle crashes, with 2024 already seeing an alarming increase in fatalities. As of this writing, at least nine motorcyclists have lost their lives, surpassing the number of deaths at this time in 2023. In July alone, two motorcyclists in Concord were killed in accidents within 24 hours of one another. Last year saw a total of 41 motorcycle fatalities across the state–a figure grimly close to the 2005 fatality high of 43.
The escalating number of motorcycle crashes in New Hampshire can be attributed to several factors, with speeding, distraction, and motorcyclists’ inherent vulnerabilities playing significant roles. Larry Crowe, the state coordinator of the New Hampshire Motorcycle Rider Education Program, emphasizes that curves and intersections are the most common places for crashes. These areas require heightened awareness from motorcyclists and car drivers, as they are the most likely spots for collisions.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in New Hampshire, contact the New Hampshire personal injury lawyers at Tenn And Tenn, P.A. Call us today at 888-332-5855 or online for a free consultation. We represent clients throughout New Hampshire, from Concord to Laconia, helping them receive the fair and full compensation they deserve.
Advice for NH Drivers Sharing the Road with Motorcyclists
Drivers and motorcyclists are equally responsible for ensuring each other’s safety on the road. If you’re a motorist, consider these seven safety tips when getting behind the wheel:
· Train yourself to be aware of motorcycles: In mild weather, such as in late spring, summer, and fall, more bikers will likely take to the road. Drivers need to make a conscious effort to watch for motorcycles and stay particularly alert to ensure their safety on the road.
· Check blind spots regularly. Motorcycles can be hard to spot and may easily blend into the background. Before merging or changing lanes, it’s crucial to carefully check your vehicle’s blind spots to ensure there are no motorcycles nearby.
· Use your turn signal. If a motorcycle is following you, and you’re about to turn or change lanes, activate your turn signal a few seconds earlier than usual. The signal gives the rider time to adjust and helps prevent potential collisions.
· Use extra caution when passing motorcyclists. Your vehicle’s heightened speed can generate strong wind turbulence when passing a rider, potentially disrupting the rider’s balance. This could cause the motorcycle to become unstable or even force the rider off the road. To avoid this, use your turn signal to indicate you’re passing and only return to the lane once you’re at a safe distance from the motorcycle.
· Slow down: Reducing speed gives you more time to react to sudden changes, such as if a motorcyclist abruptly stops or turns.
· Give ample distance to motorcyclists. When driving near a motorcycle, provide ample space and room for the rider to react. Motorcyclists often maneuver and respond faster than cars, so maintaining a safe distance helps prevent rear-end collisions and allows the rider to stay focused.
· Eliminate distractions: Modern vehicles are equipped with a plethora of multimedia systems, making it easy for drivers to become distracted. Keep the volume of your audio entertainment low, as this can help you hear a motorcycle approaching. Staying focused on the road and minimizing the use of gadgets can save lives.
Advice for Motorcyclists on New Hampshire Roads
Earlier this year, we wrote about how motorcyclists can proactively reduce the risk of crashes and injuries. To this extensive list, we add the importance of practicing evasive maneuvers. Crowe notes that all riders should practice evasive maneuvers and stay alert to cars’ erratic moves. He also points out that riders embrace the practice of positioning their motorcycles in lanes that maximize their visibility to traffic.
Continuous training is key to staying safe on the road. The New Hampshire Department of Motor Vehicles offers training courses through the Motorcycle Rider Training Program, available to novices and experienced riders alike. “Life-saving maneuvers should be practiced on a regular basis so that when they are needed, they are hardwired into a motorcyclist’s response,” Crowe says.
Let Skilled New Hampshire Personal Injury Attorney Help You
Motorcycle accidents are terrifying experiences that can result in significant–and expensive– injuries. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Call the experienced New Hampshire personal injury lawyers of Tenn And Tenn, P.A. We have helped countless injured New Hampshire residents fight for the compensation they deserve. We represent clients throughout the state, including Manchester, Lebanon, Nashua, and Bedford. Contact us today at 888-332-5855 or online for your free evaluation.