A Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Explains How Weather Conditions Affect Motorcycle Accidents in May

There’s an old saying that goes, ‘April showers bring May flowers. ‘ The saying calls to mind bright and sunny May days, which are a welcome relief from the cloudy, dreary winters we tend to experience here in Philadelphia. Sunshine and flowers are a far cry, however, from what many motorcycle riders in our area experience in the Spring. While the weather may be turning warmer, that does not mean that there are no risks when it comes to motorcycle travel. If you are not careful, these safety hazards can cause you to suffer severe injuries. An experienced Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer. Our office serves those injured due to the negligence of others. If you need help and don’t know where to turn, look to Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C. for assistance. We offer free-of-charge consultations where your questions can be answered by a team of compassionate, diligent, and proactive legal professionals. Don’t allow an at-fault party to get away with injuring you. Contact us today and begin to fight for your rights. 

Changes In The Weather Impact Motorcyclists In Philadelphia

Hitting the open road on your motorcycle is a terrific hobby for many people in and around Philadelphia. When the weather changes, it can mean deteriorating road conditions and extreme impacts to your safety. Much of the time, these changes in the weather can occur with little to no warning, as well. As a motorcyclist, your safety behind the wheel is of the utmost importance. The greater an emphasis you place on your safety, the less likely you are to suffer a major injury. 

Conditions like rain, ice, high winds, or even snow are entirely possible in Philadelphia in the Spring months, such as May. Riding into and out of extreme weather events is to be expected as a motorcyclist. However, when you regularly find yourself in changing weather patterns, it means that you increase the likelihood of being injured. It does not take much for you or another driver to over- or undercorrect because of a change in the weather conditions on the road. 

Handling A Motorcycle Crash During Times Of Adverse Weather

When you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you need to understand that fault for the accident is not always clear-cut. Unfortunately, as a motorist, you don’t have the best vantage point to determine who caused the accident. You can certainly have your opinion based on your perception of the events in question, but additional information may need to be located to make a fully informed decision on liability. 

Fortunately for you, an experienced Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer can assist you with making all these determinations. Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C., has served with pride clients facing complex motorcycle accident claims involving bad weather. We understand the law and how it applies to these types of cases. 

Warmer Weather Means Additional Weather Concerns When Riding A Motorcycle

As the weather warms in and around Philadelphia, we experience changes not only in the temperature but also in road conditions. Wet roads are among the most common road conditions that are brought about by changes in the weather during May. Consistent and heavy rains are possible in May. 

Common Hazards for Motorcyclists in May

Slick road surfaces and reduced visibility are both common hazards encountered by motorcyclists this time of year. Losing traction on the road surface can lead to hydroplaning. Obstructed views due to fog or rain can cause you to miss potholes, cracks in the road, and other issues you may otherwise be able to see. 

Riding in Rain or Fog

Early morning and evening rides on a motorcycle can also be impacted by heavy rain or foggy conditions. Riding a motorcycle on slick roads is one thing- it’s an additional set of considerations when your vision is limited by hard rain or thick fog. Weather conditions like this also place a greater burden on the motorists around you to be on guard. If the driver of another vehicle does not see you because of thick fog or has not turned on their headlights to be seen, that can cause a serious accident. 

Driver Negligence in Poor Weather

Keep in mind, however, that just because our area is experiencing bad weather does not mean that another driver’s negligence can be excused. The failure to exhibit proper care when behind the wheel is negligent, dangerous behavior. If you have been injured because another driver disregarded bad weather precautions, please contact a Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer at Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C. today for a free consultation. 

How Is Fault Determined In A Motorcycle Accident Case?

Bad weather conditions can make determining fault in your motorcycle crash more difficult. An insurance company for the driver who caused your accident may attempt to argue that you are partially at fault for the accident. A common argument is that you assumed the risks that come with riding a motorcycle in dangerous or bad weather. While this may be a position that the insurance company attempts to take, it is not a valid argument. Just because the weather is bad does not mean the drivers around you do not have to act responsibly behind the wheel. 

Generally speaking, your actions behind the wheel, as well as those of the other drivers around you, matter the most when determining fault for a motorcycle accident. Additionally, the status of the road (was it in need of necessary repairs) can also factor into a liability determination. A road with major potholes or a propensity to allow for large pools of water may have also contributed to the motorcycle accident, which resulted in your severe injuries. 

Contact A Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Who Fights For Your Rights

Do you have questions about a bad-weather motorcycle accident that resulted in your injury? Contact a Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer at Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C. to find out the answers to your most pressing questions. We offer free consultations to potential clients. Map out a game plan for your case after speaking to our team of talented legal professionals.