In the summer, there are more motorcycles on Ontario roadways and highways. However, when motorcycles are involved in accidents with other vehicles, i.e., cars, vans, buses or trucks, riders often suffer catastrophic injuries or die as a result of the crashes. This is especially true if the accident happens at a high rate of speed or if the rider is hit by a much larger, heavier vehicle. Motorcycle riders do not have seat belts or airbags to protect them when hit by other vehicles. If riders are thrown from their bikes, the injuries are often fatal. If the injuries are not fatal, spinal cord and head injuries are common.

There have been several fatal motorcycle crashes across Ontario already this summer. Below is a discussion of two of the most recent ones.

Man Dies in Motorcycle Crash

In early August, a man riding his motorcycle in South Huron, Ontario died after a pickup truck hauling a trailer made a left turn directly in front of him. The rider was 62 years old and was pronounced dead at the scene. His 59 year old passenger sustained major injuries. The pickup truck driver was not injured.

Man Dies in Motorcycle Crash Due to Distracted Driving

At the end of July, a man riding his motorcycle died after a crash with another vehicle in Windsor, Ontario. The driver of a car slammed into the back of the motorcycle. The 66 year old rider was thrown from his bike. According to reports, the police has information that suggests the 22 year old car driver was driving while distracted. It was likely that the driver was focused on his phone when the rear-end crash happened.

Rights of Injured Motorcycles Riders and/or Their Families

Injured riders and the families of deceased riders have legal rights. If a motorcycle rider was injured in a car accident caused by another driver, he may file an accident benefits claim with his own insurance company. One of the most important statutory accident benefits the injured rider may receive is medical and rehabilitation benefits.

In addition, an injured rider has a legal right to file a tort claim against the driver who caused the accident.

Families of deceased riders may also file claims for Ontario accident benefits, such as funeral expenses, spousal death benefits, and dependent’s death benefits for each child under the age of 18. They too may file tort claims against the at-fault riders for the loss of their loved ones.

If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident in Ontario and sustained catastrophic injuries, the accident injury lawyers at Bergeron Clifford can help. Call to schedule a FREE consultation today. 866-384-5886

*Source:

• insidebelleville.com (London man dies in motorcycle crash )
• blogs.thewindsorstar.com (Windsor police say there is evidence man charged in fatal E.C. Row crash was driving distracted)