Many states are making efforts to reduce the number of motorcycle fatalities. The Vermont Department of Transportation set a goal of reducing the number of annual motorcycle fatalities to a 5-year average of 8 (for the years 2012-2017). Sadly, Vermont failed to meet this goal as the average annual number of motorcyclist fatalities during this period was 9.8. This number includes a high of 13 bikers killed in 2017 alone. The state continues to educate motorists to be aware of bikers on the road. Also through the initiative they are working to educate bikers on the dangers of speeding and aggressive riding.
One promising statistic is that, of the 13 fatalities in 2017, only one biker was not wearing a helmet. Motorcycle helmets are required under Vermont law. As Vermont motorcycle crash lawyers, we know well that helmets save lives. Were it not for Vermont’s motorcycle helmet laws, more lives would have been lost. We encourage all motorcycle riders to wear helmets and other protective gear.
Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Serving Colchester, Essex, Burlington, and Beyond
Many of those injured and killed in Vermont motorcycle crashes were hurt through no fault of their own. Accidents commonly occur when motorists fail to notice motorcycles on the road. This so-called “inattentional blindness” happens when motorists see bikers, but do not react to their presence. The brain is focusing on other vehicles on the road and simply overlooks motorcycles. Often, motorists who strike bikers say that they just did not see them. With proper education, however, studies have shown that drivers can overcome inattentional blindness. Motorists simply need to be reminded that they may encounter motorcyclists on the road and should be aware of them.
At the Law Firm of Kass & Moses, we fight for people who have been hurt in crashes through no fault of their own. But, even if you feel you might be partly responsible for the crash, we may be able to help you. With just one phone call you will learn how we can begin to use the law in your favor in order to help you gain fair and just compensation. Contact us at 1-800-MOTORCYCLE.
After a Vermont motorcycle crash, you may receive a settlement offer from the insurance company. Do not accept this initial offer! Insurance companies make these lowball offers knowing that many people will accept them, ending the insurance company’s responsibilities for further payments. Instead, reach out to a motorcycle accident attorney for further guidance. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney will assess your case and determine how much compensation you are likely to receive. They will handle the interactions with the insurance company. This frees you up to focus on healing and recovery.
Returning to health after a motorcycle crash is of utmost importance, which is why we advise all motorcycle crash victims to take their medical advice seriously. Simply put, if you are in a crash, you need to get checked out completely by a physician. From that point on, you need to carefully follow their directions for recovery. Do not think you can skip therapy sessions or put off treatments if you begin to feel better. When you do this, your recovery is prone to setbacks. These setbacks can result in additional pain, medical bills, and in some cases even disability. If you are hurt, follow the advice of your doctor. It is as simple as that.
Just as we advise crash victims to follow the advice of their doctors, we also feel they should follow the advice of their attorneys. This means refusing to negotiate with insurance providers. This also means avoiding posting about the crash on Facebook or other social media. These posts, while well-intentioned, can be twisted and used against you by the insurance company. Here is an example: suppose you post photos of your crash and a friend asks how you are feeling. You post that you are doing alright. The insurance company can then say that you are liable to collect less compensation, since you claimed you were doing alright, therefore you must not have been in pain or suffering from injuries. It is this kind of behavior by the insurance adjusters that can diminish your ability to collect fair and just compensation.
As experienced motorcycle accident lawyers, we know well how insurance companies operate. We can provide you the guidance based on the wisdom we have developed as attorneys with a combined five decades of experience. This guidance can result in increased compensation, which will allow you to pay your medical bills and focus on returning to health.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Vermont,
call 1-800-414-5196
Vermont Motorcycle Law
Requirements for legally riding a motorcycle vary from state to state. The Kass & Moses team can confidently answer your questions about the specifics of Vermont’s motorcycle laws. Below are a few rules of the road that every local rider should keep in mind:
- Approved motorcycle helmets are required for all individuals riding a motorcycle in Vermont.
- All riders must signal when making turns, either with hand or mechanical signals.
- If the motorcycle is not equipped with a windshield or windscreen, the motorcyclist is required to wear appropriate eye protection.
Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me 1-800-414-5196
Motorcycle Organizations:
BMW Motorcycle Owners of Vermont
Cycle Conservation Club of Vermont
Iron Order Motorcycle Club
League of Riders Motorcycle Club
Masonic Motorcycle Club International
State Line Riders Motorcycle Club
U.S. Veterans Motorcycle Club of Vermont
Vermont American Legion Riders
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.
Call or text 1-800-414-5196 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form