DANGERS THAT GRASS CLIPPINGS IN THE ROAD POSE TO MOTORCYCLISTS
With summer just around the corner, many Ohioans are preparing their motorcycles for a new riding season. Riders face many dangers while cruising state roadways, and grass clippings blown into the street pose a significant hazard. This type of yard waste can be slippery and unstable, quickly causing motorcyclists to lose control when riding over them.
Sewer and drainage systems that are vital in preventing flooding throughout the summer are also endangered. Pooling water due to clogged drainage lines can quickly turn a fun motorcycle ride into a tragedy. Ohio law makes it clear that materials that could cause an injury into a road are illegal and can include things like raked leaves and grass clippings.
How Grass Clippings are a Hazard to Motorcyclists
Countless studies have shown the benefit of leaving grass clippings on one’s lawn. From helping to add moisture to decomposing naturally, the benefits outweigh the dangers of blowing them into the street instead. Despite this fact, homeowners and lawn care companies continue to endanger the lives of motorcycle riders throughout Ohio and dispose of them along roadways and in drainage ditches.
This negligent behavior creates a roadway surface that is almost as slick as ice. Since grass is mainly made of water, whether wet or dry, it creates a significant hazard for motorcycles. The layer of clippings on the street separates tires from the pavement, leading to spin-outs or sudden loss of maneuverability. Even if for only a few seconds, tires losing grip on pavement can lead to devastating injuries, especially if on a curve.
Types of Injuries in a Motorcycle accident involving grass clippings can include:
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries
Lower-extremity injuries
Internal injuries like ruptured organs and brain bleeds
Fractured and broken bones
Road rash
Whiplash
Disfigurement from burns and lacerations
Death
Motorcyclists do what they can to avoid road debris and other hazards that could cause them to wipe out. Some of these maneuvers can be risky, like sudden lane switching or crossing a double yellow line. From 2012 to 2016 alone, over 19,000 Ohio motor vehicle crashes were attributed to things like trash, leaves, grass clippings, and other objects that don’t belong in a street lane.
Contact a Skilled Ohio Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
As a favorite American pastime, motorcycle riding is a popular summer activity that is looked forward to every year. When a homeowner or lawn care company negligently blows grass into the street, a gorgeous sunny day can quickly take a tragic turn in the blink of an eye.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, consulting with an experienced Ohio motorcycle accident lawyer is crucial. Diehl & Hubbell are easily accessible for anyone in Southwestern Ohio, including the communities of Lebanon, Hillsboro, Wilmington, and Hamilton. Our reputation is one that you can trust to ensure you get the fair compensation you deserve. Contact our office online or call us to schedule a free initial consultation.