Motorcycle riders call it a way of life, rather than an alternative means of transportation. This is why so many people opt to ride motorcycles, despite the fact that riding a motorcycle carries the potential of serious injury or death.

Thousands of riders are killed in fatal motorcycle accidents in the U.S. each year, even though the rider is usually not at fault. Between 2003 and 2012, motorcycle fatalities increased by a third, reports the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Motorcycle riders accounted for nearly 18% of all traffic fatalities in Connecticut, according to the report. 

Continue reading for more information on fatal motorcycle accidents in Connecticut.

It is recommended that you speak with a CT motorcycle accident lawyer if a loved one has been killed in a fatal motorcycle accident. The team at Brandon J. Broderick has the experience to help you with your case. We have helped clients in all kinds of auto accidents. We can assist you today.

Common Causes of Fatal Motorcycle Accidents in CT

According to statistics from the NHTSA, driving under the influence of alcohol affects around 25% of motorcycle riders involved in fatal accidents. Furthermore, just 48% of motorcycle riders use a helmet in Connecticut where it is not mandatory for all riders to wear one.

Regretfully, Connecticut motorcycle riders have a death rate that is 28 times greater per mile traveled than that of passengers in cars.

It's interesting to note that although there were fewer traffic fatalities overall in 2016, there were more deaths involving motorcycles in 2016 than in 1994. Research indicates that while more people are riding motorcycles due to warmer weather and a stable economy, the number of fatalities in passenger car incidents has decreased due to improved air bags and higher seat belt usage. With a motorcycle, you are not afforded the same safety protections.

Motorcycle accidents in Connecticut are primarily caused by the same factors that cause auto accidents. The distinction is that riders are not as well protected as people who are traveling in cars or other vehicles.

A motorcycle accident are commonly caused by the following factors:

• Due to their smaller size compared to other vehicles, motorcycles can be harder for other drivers to see. When trying to pass, merge, or approach a motorcycle, other cars might underestimate their speed and distance.
• For motorcycle riders, weather and road conditions that can be bothersome for drivers can be exceedingly dangerous.
• Motorcycle riders are statistically more likely to be injured or killed in crashes.

If your family member died in a fatal motorcycle accident, it's important to consult with a wrongful death lawyer who is knowledgeable about motorcycle accidents in CT. Since it is generally not the rider who is at fault, it's important to investigate and gather the necessary evidence to prove this so that the family is compensated accordingly.

Proving Wrongful Death in CT Motorcycle Accidents

Your lawyer must prove that the death was caused by the negligence, recklessness, or carelessness of another party in order to establish wrongful death.

Motorcycle fatalities are commonly related to other drivers' carelessness. However, in some cases a rider is killed when their motorcycle malfunctions. The motorcycle may not have been properly maintained or has defective parts. If there is something defective or the mechanic or dealership didn't identify and fix specific problems, you could be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the manufacturer, the dealership, the mechanic, and other parties.

Need a CT Motorcycle Accident Lawyer For a Fatal Accident?

A CT motorcycle accident lawyer with experience can have a positive impact on your case. If you are going through the grief of losing a family member in a fatal accident, give Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law a call as soon as you can. In order to protect your rights and negotiate the best compensation on your behalf, we will look into your case immediately.

Please give us a call at any time for a free consultation.