Fall Motorcycle Crashes in New Hampshire Why Visibility Declines and How Fault Is Determined

As the vibrant colors of autumn begin to paint the New Hampshire landscape, motorcycle riders across the state take to the roads to enjoy the crisp air and scenic beauty of fall. However, this beautiful season brings unique challenges for motorcyclists, including a notable rise in motorcycle crashes. The combination of changing weather conditions, reduced visibility, and increased wildlife activity makes fall a particularly hazardous time to ride. If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle crash this fall, understanding the contributing factors and how fault is determined can help guide the next steps in your legal journey.

How Fall Conditions Contribute to Motorcycle Accidents in New Hampshire

Fall in New Hampshire is a picturesque time, but with the changing seasons come weather and road conditions that can make riding a motorcycle more dangerous. Reduced visibility, slick roadways, and the higher likelihood of encountering wildlife on the roads all contribute to an increase in motorcycle crashes during this time. It’s important for both riders and other drivers to understand these risks and take extra precautions while on the road.

Reduced Visibility as Daylight Hours Shorten

One of the most significant factors contributing to motorcycle crashes in the fall is the reduction in daylight hours. As the days get shorter and daylight fades earlier, motorcyclists often find themselves riding during dusk or nighttime hours when visibility is reduced. This is especially dangerous for riders because motorcycles are smaller than most vehicles, and it’s more difficult for other drivers to spot them in low light conditions. For motorcyclists, this means they need to be extra cautious when riding during these hours. Additionally, the low sun angle during fall can create blinding glare, making it even harder to see other vehicles and road hazards. Riders should take extra care by wearing protective gear that increases visibility, such as reflective jackets, vests, or helmets with bright colors. Ensuring that headlights and taillights are in good working condition is also vital during this time of year. Riding with the headlight on during the day, even in good visibility, can make it easier for other drivers to spot you.

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Wet and Slippery Roads from Fallen Leaves

Another major contributor to motorcycle crashes in the fall is wet, slippery roads caused by fallen leaves. As the trees shed their foliage, leaves accumulate on the road, especially in rural areas or along winding backroads, where debris often gathers. Wet leaves, especially when combined with rain or morning dew, create slick conditions that can cause motorcyclists to lose traction. The risk is particularly high when leaves are wet and decomposing, creating an almost oil-like sheen on the road surface. Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to slipping when navigating sharp turns, sudden stops, or changes in speed on such roads. It’s crucial for riders to adjust their speed when riding on roads covered with leaves, and they should avoid sharp turns or sudden braking. Ideally, riders should choose routes that are less likely to have heavy leaf cover or plan their routes carefully during rainy days or after a storm.

Wildlife and Deer Crossing the Road

As the weather cools and hunting season begins, wildlife, particularly deer, become more active in New Hampshire. Deer are known to wander across roads, especially at dawn and dusk when visibility is low. These animals often appear suddenly and without warning, creating a hazardous situation for motorcyclists. Deer are unpredictable and can dart across a road at any time, making it difficult for riders to avoid them. Motorcyclists should remain vigilant and prepared to stop quickly, especially when riding in areas where deer are commonly spotted. Highways and rural roads in New Hampshire are particularly prone to wildlife crossings, and riders should anticipate potential encounters with animals, particularly during the fall months when deer are most active. If you see a deer, it’s important not to swerve abruptly; instead, focus on slowing down and maintaining control of the bike to avoid crashing.

Motorcycle Maintenance and Safety Gear

Proper maintenance of a motorcycle is crucial year-round, but it’s especially important during the fall when conditions change rapidly. Cold temperatures can affect the tire pressure, battery life, and fluid levels in a motorcycle. Ensuring that the motorcycle’s tires are properly inflated and in good condition is essential for traction and stability. Motorcyclists should also check the brake pads, fluid levels, and lights to ensure the bike performs optimally in these cooler months. Riding in the fall often means encountering cooler temperatures, so wearing the proper protective gear is more important than ever. Wearing a full-face helmet can protect against both cold temperatures and potential injuries in case of a crash. Other safety gear, such as gloves, jackets, pants, and boots made from durable materials, provides protection and insulation from the elements.

Determining Fault in a Motorcycle Accident

When a motorcycle crash occurs, one of the most important questions is determining who is at fault. In New Hampshire, the legal system follows a comparative fault rule, meaning that fault for an accident can be shared by multiple parties. Understanding how fault is determined is important when pursuing a personal injury claim after an accident.

Determining Negligence in Fall Motorcycle Accidents

Negligence is often the basis for determining fault in a motorcycle accident. If a driver or motorcyclist is found to have failed to follow traffic laws or was otherwise negligent, they may be held accountable for the crash. For example, if a driver makes an illegal left turn and fails to see a motorcyclist approaching, they would likely be found negligent and at fault for the accident. Similarly, if a motorcyclist were speeding, failing to wear a helmet, or driving recklessly, they could be found partially or fully at fault for the crash. In New Hampshire, drivers are required to yield to motorcycles, just as they would with any other vehicle. If a motorcyclist is struck by a car while following the rules of the road, the driver may be liable for damages. However, if a motorcyclist was speeding or weaving between cars, this may also affect how fault is determined in a case.

Comparative Fault and Shared Responsibility

New Hampshire’s comparative fault system allows both the motorcyclist and the other driver to share liability if both contributed to the accident. For instance, if a car driver failed to yield to a motorcyclist while making a turn but the motorcyclist was also speeding, the fault may be divided between the two parties. In cases where the motorcyclist is found to be partially at fault, their compensation for injuries may be reduced based on their percentage of responsibility for the accident.

Using Evidence to Determine Fault

In motorcycle accident cases, evidence is key to determining fault. This includes police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction. Police reports will often provide valuable information about the crash scene, including traffic laws that were violated, weather conditions at the time of the accident, and the status of the road (such as whether it was slippery due to wet leaves). Witnesses who saw the accident unfold can also provide important testimony regarding the sequence of events leading to the crash. Additionally, physical evidence from the scene, such as skid marks, damaged vehicles, and debris from the crash, can help piece together how the accident occurred. Motorcyclists involved in crashes should document the scene as much as possible, take photos, and gather any available witness statements to support their claim.

Legal Options After a Motorcycle Crash

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle crash, it’s important to understand your legal rights. Motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. In New Hampshire, you have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering if you’ve been injured due to another party’s negligence. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and determine the best course of action. Even if you are partially at fault for the accident, a lawyer can help you recover compensation based on New Hampshire’s comparative fault laws. The attorneys at Tenn and Tenn, PA, specialize in personal injury law and can assist you in filing a claim, negotiating settlements, and pursuing justice after a motorcycle crash. Fall motorcycle crashes in New Hampshire are more common due to a combination of weather conditions, wildlife activity, and reduced visibility. Understanding the risks and taking necessary precautions can help reduce the likelihood of a crash. However, if you are involved in an accident, it’s crucial to understand how fault is determined and what legal options are available to you. Consulting with a skilled attorney can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

To learn more about this subject click here: Motorcycle Crashes on the Rise in New Hampshire in 2024