Pennsylvania Injury Attorneys Blog
A man was killed on Thursday when his motorcycle was struck from behind by a car on northbound I-81 in Carlisle.
According to the Cumberland Times-News, Pennsylvania State Police say the the motorcycle was in the right lane when the front of a Carlisle woman’s car touched the back of the cycle. As a result of the impact, the motorcycle hit the ground and the rider landed in the road. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the car, who is 19, was not injured. The crash is under investigation.
As the details of this tragic accident unfold, it brings to mind two reminders as cars and motorcycles share the road. First, automobile drivers of all ages should be on the look out for motorcycles. But younger drivers should be especially careful, since they may not have as much experience with different situations that can occur when driving in traffic with other modes of transportation, such as motorcycles and trucks.
Second, when on the road you should always practice keeping a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. According to the website, SmartMotorist.com, you can ensure a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you by following the “three-second rule.” To determine the right following distance, first select a fixed object on the road ahead such as a sign, tree, or overpass. When the vehicle ahead of you passes the object, slowly count “one one thousand, two one thousand, three one thousand.” If you reach the object before completing the count, you’re following too closely. Not following this rule can lead to a fender bender with another auto, or it can lead to something more tragic, if the vehicle in front of you is a motorcycle.