This time of year, the weather in Washington can start to turn cold. As it gets deeper into winter, many people choose not to ride their motorcycles. Motorcyclists face risks whenever they are on Washington roadways. Inclement weather can increase these risks and make it difficult for motorcyclists to ride. However, that does not mean every motorcycle is off of the roads. It is important for drivers to continue to be aware of motorcyclists as they are traveling in Washington state.
If drivers are not attentive to those around them, serious motorcycle accidents can occur. Since motorcycles offer very little protection to riders, these accidents are often very serious.
Recently, an accident shows just how serious a motorcycle crash can be. In this case, a 76-year-old man from Seattle was riding a motorcycle on Interstate 5 in Tacoma near Joint Base Lewis-McChord when the motorcycle accident occurred.
Reports claim that the man fell from his motorcycle while driving. Sadly, he was then struck by a semi-truck. He was killed in the accident. The truck driver, on the other hand, was not injured in the incident. Investigators from the Washington State Patrol are still trying to determine how the accident occurred.
It is not uncommon for motorcyclists to be killed in a motorcycle accident. They have very little protection from larger vehicles should a crash occur. Therefore, serious injuries like spinal cord injuries, crush injuries, head injuries, broken bones and road rash are likely.
When a negligent driver is responsible for causing a motorcycle accident, that driver should be held responsible for damages. Damages that may be sought via a lawsuit include medical costs and lost wages. When a motorcyclist dies in an accident, the person’s family may also want to seek compensation.
Source: Q13 Fox, “76-year-old Seattle man killed when he falls off motorcycle on I-5, struck by tractor-trailer,” Nov. 30, 2015