Driver Crashes into Group of Motorcycle Riders

June 14, 2012

One motorcyclist was killed and nine others were injured after a crash occurred on Highway 151 north of Fond du Lac. A car apparently crossed the centerline and hit 10 motorcycles around 3 p.m. on May 31st between Gladstone Beach Road and Welling Beach Road in the Town of Taycheedah. Of the riders, all from Michigan, three were critically injured, including a rider who went into cardiac arrest while being airlifted to a local hospital.

After investigating the crash, the Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office charged the driver of the car with homicide by negligent use of a motor vehicle. He is expected to be taken into custody once is released from the hospital.

While this type of accident is a rare occurrence, it underscores the importance of motorcycle safety in Wisconsin. With warm summer weather arriving and gas prices still at high levels, experts expect more motorcycles and scooters on the road. With more riders, the potential for accidents rises as well. In 2010, 2,214 people were injured and 98 were killed in motorcycle accidents in Wisconsin. Both were increases from 2009.

Despite these numbers, motorcyclists can take a number of steps to be safe on the road. First, riders should be aware of speed limits and how traffic may affect how they may ride. It is no coincidence that most fatal accidents occur during rush hour, when traffic is heaviest.

With that said, riders should make every effort to be seen. Many accidents occur because the driver simply did not see the motorcyclist (even though they have a duty to look for them). Using headlights at all times and staying clear of drivers' blind spots can keep riders safe.

Most importantly, it is imperative that motorcycle riders wear helmets. Wisconsin law only requires riders 17 years and under to wear them. However, a good helmet goes a long way in preventing fatal injuries. Studies conducted by the National Highway Transportation Safety Association indicate that helmets reduce the likelihood of fatalities by 37 percent, and are highly effective in preventing traumatic brain injuries.

Nevertheless, if you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. An experienced personal injury attorney can advise you of your rights and options.

Article provided by Bollenbeck Fyfe, S.C.
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