The Louisiana State Police is reminding motorists that it can be difficult to judge how far away or how fast an approaching motorcycle is traveling and to remain alert for and share the road with motorcycles. This reminder comes on the heels of a fourth fatal car wreck within seven days involving a motorcycle. At least two of those accidents involved vehicles that turned directly in front of the motorcycle.
Both of those motorcycle riders were killed as a result. Failing to yield the right of way to a motorcycle can be deadly to the motorcycle rider. When drivers are making left hand turns, they need to remember to look out for motorcycles and to err on the side of caution if one is approaching from the opposite lane of traffic. One of the accidents occurred in Abita Springs and the other occurred in Slidell.
In addition to warning drivers, the Louisiana State Police also reiterated to motorcycle riders to take safety precautions. It is recommended that motorcyclists drive with their headlight on regardless of whether it is day or night. Riders are also encouraged to use reflective strips and to wear bright/light clothing.
In the end, it is still the responsibility of every motorist to watch out for each other. Taking an extra look and making sure a driver’s path is clear may cost a minute or two of drive time, but could end up saving a life. The reminder from troopers comes too late for four motorcyclists and their families, but it may help other riders. In the meantime, those families may file wrongful death claims if it is appropriate in order to recover any financial losses that inevitably accompany a car wreck such as this.
