Yesterday, July 4, 2016, a motorcyclist was severely injured in Hugo, Minnesota. A Chevrolet Equinox traveling northbound on Highway 61 was merging into the right hand turn lane to go east on 147th Street when it collided with a Harley Davidson Motorcycle driven by a 51-year-old man from Birchwood, MN.
The Chevrolet was driven by a 16-year-old from Hugo. Two other teenagers were passengers in the car when it hit the motorcycle.
There was a second crash involving a motorcycle later that night. A elderly man from Pelican Rapids MN was driving a Buick Lucerne was driving northbound on Highway 59. He slowed to a near stop before turning left. A middle aged man and his female passenger were traveling southbound on Highway 59 on a Honda Motorcycle, when the motorcycle collided with the Buick. Ejecting both riders. Thankfully, neither driver sustained serious injuries.
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable in crashes. Their bikes lack the structure of a four-wheel vehicle making riders prone to ejection. They can also be difficult to see, particularly when a car or truck is turning as the windshield frame can obstruct the driver’s view significantly.
Both of these incidents occurred at night. Driving a motorcycle at night can be extra dangerous. In order to protect yourself there are a few night driving tips:
- Gear: Always wear a helmet. Additionally, when driving at night wear reflective gear.
- Lights on your bike: Many manufactures will put small taillights and headlights on their motorcycles to make them appear more ascetically pleasing. Examine your lights. You can purchase a larger headlight and/or taillight at most hardware stores for less than $10. It might save your life someday.
- Maximize the angle of your headlight: Every state has different laws about the maximum angle allowed. Your bike’s headlight should reflect the greatest angle allowed.
- Add reflective tape to your bike: If you plan on driving at night frequently, consider adding reflective tap to the body of your bike and your helmet.
Our lawyers have witnessed the catastrophic injuries that can occur on the road. We urge motorcyclists to drive safely, and take the extra step to protect yourself.
