A motorcycle accident in a county north of Missoula claimed the life of a motorcyclist. The man who died was 41 years old.
The accident happened at an intersection. Montana Highway Patrol authorities say that the driver of a passenger vehicle tried to cross a federal highway while traveling on a local road. In the process, the driver clipped the front of the motorcycle. The motorcyclist was heading north on the highway.
Rescuers say that the motorcyclist died at the scene of the accident. He suffered severe head trauma. There was no report on the condition of the other driver. There was also no report on whether the Highway Patrol issued a citation.
Drivers simply must be on the lookout for motorcyclists
Given its natural beauty and open roads, it is not surprising that many people like to ride motorcycles through Montana in the warmer months of the year.
While motorcyclists should do what they can to protect themselves, other drivers have a responsibility to be on the lookout for motorcycles and to give them enough space to keep the roads safe for everyone.
Frequently, when a motorcycle and full-sized vehicle collide, it is because the driver of the car or truck failed to yield the right of way.
Especially at intersections, drivers tend not to pay close enough attention to notice when a motorcycle is approaching from another direction.
At other times, they may see the motorcycle but greatly overestimate how long it will take the motorcycle to arrive at the intersection.
It is a driver’s responsibility to avoid a potentially serious or fatal motorcycle accident by avoiding distractions and paying careful attention at all times, but especially at intersections. Victims may be able to hold drivers responsible if they fail in this important obligation.
