Safety Measures to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents in Connecticut

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are an estimated 29 times more likely than people in cars to die in a traffic crash and four times more likely to be injured. Increasing safety for motorcyclists is a worthwhile goal, and Connecticut currently has numerous laws aimed at doing that. 

Despite every effort to maximize roadway safety for motorcycle riders, accidents are likely to continue. Contact the experienced motorcycle wreck attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, to discuss your case and how we may be able to help you hold the at-fault party liable. 

Following existing laws is a great place to start when prioritizing motorcycle safety, including Connecticut’s helmet law. 

Are Motorcycle Riders Required to Wear Helmets in Connecticut?

Helmets are the best safety measure to prevent serious head injury in a motorcycle crash. Around half of US states have helmet laws, and Connecticut is among those with regulations dictating partial helmet use, so not every rider is required to wear a helmet. The following bikers and passengers must wear a helmet:

• Riders and passengers under 18 years old
• Anyone riding with a learner’s permit

If helmets can mitigate the risk of a brain or head injury following a motorcycle accident, what can bikers and other motorists do to prevent accidents? 

Connecticut Safety Measures to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents

Preventing every accident is not a realistic goal, but it is possible for the number of motorcycle accidents to decrease if bikers and motorists in Connecticut make an effort to implement safety measures. 

Proper Training

Motorcycle riders are not required to earn a separate driver’s license to operate a motorcycle in Connecticut. Instead, they receive a motorcycle endorsement on their regular license. To get the motorcycle endorsement, you must:

• Pass a knowledge and vision test
• Pay the permit fees
• Complete an approved motorcycle training program

The Connecticut Department of Transportation has provided safety tips for motorcycle riders and other motorists, including:

• Be cautious of blind spots – motorcycles are harder to see on the road, making them easier to overlook in blind spots
• Do not tailgate a motorcycle – not only is this dangerous in any circumstances, but motorcycles can often stop faster. Following too closely can result in a rear-end or other accident involving the motorcycle. 
• Check the weather before riding – inclement weather tends to impact motorcycles more so than other types of passenger vehicles. 
• Exercise additional caution at intersections – many accidents occur at intersections, so being especially careful in these areas can help prevent motorcycle collisions. 

Knowing the motorcycle laws in Connecticut can also help to keep bikers safe and compliant with state requirements, so keep in mind that:

• Lane splitting is prohibited
• Handlebars cannot be higher than the biker’s shoulders
• Eye protection, like goggles or face shields, is required unless the bike has a windshield

Laws like these are in place to protect riders, so following them will theoretically cut back on the number of motorcycle accidents in Connecticut. 

Trusted Guidance for Your Motorcycle Accident Claim in Connecticut

The attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, promote safety measures to prevent motorcycle accidents in Connecticut. Even when bikers follow all the laws and regulations, they may still be injured in a crash caused by another driver. Contact our motorcycle collision lawyers to schedule a free consultation.