Pace Law Firm is not like most other Ontario motorcycle accident lawyers – all leathers and no metal. We are motorcyclists at heart. And that is why it is of such concern to us that Ontario’s roads have been such a deathtrap for riders this summer.

Two fatal accidents, in the same week of June, make for chilling news. In the first, Joey Catteau suffered critical injuries that claimed his life, after colliding with an SUV. In the second accident, Tyler Knight was killed after what was described as a head-on collision with a commercial vehicle. Though details about the cases are scant, there was one common denominator: a large vehicle was involved in each accident.

Hazardous Roads for Motorcyclists

Unfortunately, Canada’s roads have not become much safer for motorcyclists over the years. The average number of motorcyclist fatalities has hovered around the 200 mark (2013-2017), according to government statistics, and there are no signs of things improving.

As there has been a significant increase in the number of larger, taller, and heavier vehicles on the roads, the risk for motorcycle riders has increased. The popularity of SUVs and crossovers has resulted in many drivers transitioning from smaller vehicles, that are easier to drive, to much larger vehicles that are more difficult to drive safely. As a result, many drivers are not fully prepared for the distinct challenges that driving such vehicles pose—such as larger blind spots, and greater stopping distances.  Consequently, there has been a significant increase in the risk of such vehicles causing fatalities. For example, the two fatal motorcycle accidents cited involved a commercial vehicle and an SUV.

As a motorcyclist you are a rightful road user, and drivers of other vehicles owe you a duty of care. If you or someone you know has been injured as a result of a motorcycle accident, or if your family has suffered the loss of a loved one in such an accident, call Pace Law Firm now. Our Personal injury lawyers know the anguish you are going through and will fight to make sure you are compensated for your injuries.

The Right Riding Gear

Riding safely begins with a ‘safety mentality.’ Instead of bemoaning its discomfort, every motorcycle rider should wear adequate safety gear. Rather than getting angry with the driver who cut you off, be aware and prepared for distracted driving.

Over the years, improvements in riding gear has resulted in it becoming much more comfortable and “breathable.” Today, many suits have been designed to incorporate safety features, making your ride that much safer. Protect yourself appropriately. By doing so, you can survive a potentially fatal crash, and/or significantly diminish the severity of the injuries you sustain as a result of an accident.

Fallen Riders Support Team

If you are involved in an accident, you should have a rider community behind you to look after you. After all, you want assistance from someone who understands what you and your family are going through.

Ray Bonner and James Taylor are two of our lawyers who have set up the Fallen Riders Support Team. Survivors of motorcycle accidents themselves, they know how helpful it is to have someone who can look after you and your family by:

• Advocating and advising on rider safety
• Conducting fundraising campaigns to help with treatment
• Providing a comforting arm around your family’s shoulders
• Helping riders rehabilitate and recover
• Providing transportation assistance
• Helping families navigate the complexities of wrongful death compensation

Active in the Rider Community

The Fallen Riders Support Team is actively involved with the riding community. In attending sports events, hosting fundraisers, and visiting people in hospital, we are committed to supporting your full recovery – physical, emotional, and financial – from your accident. If you frequent the riding scene in Ontario, you’ll ride with us sooner or later.

We understand that motorcycle accidents can and will happen. That’s what we tell all those who come to us for help – look to the future. As experienced motorcycle accident lawyers, we will fight for you to receive the compensation you deserve.