Did you know tires have a better grip on a snowy road than on a rainy road or pavement? According to a report compiled by the Auto Insurance Centre, there are more fatal accidents during the rainy season than in snowy weather. Even though friction depends on how wet a surface is, drivers tend to be more cautious driving on snow than on wet roads. All it takes for trouble to start is a sudden turn or braking on a wet surface.
Motorcycle riders in particular should be extra cautious on wet roads. Since their vehicles are smaller, they may be harder to see in adverse weather.
Your Rights as a Motorcycle Accident Victim
If you or a loved one have been in a car accident, you probably know how the bills can pile up. The same case applies to motorcycle accidents. Many motorcycle accident victims are left with chronic pain, discomfort, and other complications that can be long term. Some of these injuries may be expensive to treat, and in the long run, the victims may require rehabilitation and therapy. You shouldn’t have to pay for everything out of pocket. That’s why it’s crucial to understand your legal rights if you fall victim to a motorcycle accident.
What to Prove
In case you are a victim in a motorcycle accident, you have to prove:
- The other driver was negligent. For example, the speed limit is 45mph and the driver was going 65mph or the other driver did not keep a safe distance.
- The accident caused injuries and damages.
For these facts to be accepted as legal proof, you should consult a personal injury lawyer who can outline the insurance company’s expected expenses and compensation. That said, most insurance companies are not willing to compensate, so they try to find out if you were at fault. Some of the things they look into include:
- Were your tires in good condition?
- Was it a rainy day, and maybe you slid on the wet road or pavement?
- Is your inspection record up to date to ensure the motorcycle was well maintained?
Compensation
The driver at fault should be held responsible for covering all the losses. These include all medical expenses in the present and future. That’s why it is crucial to understand your legal rights if you fall victim to a motorcycle accident.
If the injuries suffered hinder the victim from returning to work or have to change careers, the responsible driver would also cover the supplementary income. Damages to any property are also compensated. Expenses can also include compensation to the surviving family if the victim died in the accident.
Facts Presented
In the judicial system, a lot depends on the facts tabled. These facts can include emotional distress, pain and suffering or mental anguish, and other out-of-pocket expenses. How well your lawyer presents these facts increases your chances of compensation.
Conclusion
Though visibility is poor and the glare from oncoming vehicles makes it harder to drive safely in the rain, we can take some precautions. Make sure your main controls are working; these include the braking and accelerator systems. The windshield wipers should be replaced when they show wear.
Always give yourself enough time to get to your destination. Running late can lead to poor decision making like speeding and trying to run through yellow lights. Keep at least a minimum of a six-second following distance between you and the car in front of you. This will give you enough time to react in case of any sudden occurrences.
Remember, you will most likely share the road with pedestrians and motorcyclists. Though they may be harder to see, being mindful of your surroundings can reduce accidents in any weather condition.
