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Summer Motorcycle Safety in Massachusetts and New Hampshire: How to Stay Safe and What to Do After an Accident

July 2, 2025

There’s nothing like hitting the open road on a motorcycle during a New England summer. From winding coastal highways to scenic backroads through the White Mountains, Massachusetts and New Hampshire offer some of the most breathtaking rides in the country. But with warmer weather and more riders on the road comes a noticeable uptick in motorcycle accidents, and the consequences can be devastating.

At Kiley Law Group, we’ve helped thousands of injured riders and their families recover after serious crashes. With over $1 billion won for our clients and hundreds of five-star Google Reviews, we understand how one moment on the road can change your life forever. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident this summer, we’re here to help. But first, let’s talk about how to reduce your risk and protect yourself this season.

Why Summer Is the Most Dangerous Season for Motorcyclists

Summertime brings sunshine, longer days, and prime conditions for riding. It also brings:

  • More vehicles on the road (especially tourists and out-of-town drivers)
  • More construction zones and roadwork
  • More teen and inexperienced drivers
  • Higher risk of fatigue, dehydration, and sun glare

According to crash data, motorcycle accidents in New England spike between May and September. Riders are more likely to suffer serious or fatal injuries than drivers in passenger vehicles. That’s why awareness and preparation are key.

Common Causes of Summer Motorcycle Accidents

Even the most experienced riders can fall victim to the unpredictable. Some of the most common causes of summer motorcycle crashes include:

1. Distracted Drivers

Drivers who are texting, adjusting their GPS, or talking to passengers often fail to check blind spots or see motorcyclists at all. During the summer, this gets worse with more out-of-state drivers unfamiliar with local roads.

2. Road Hazards

Winter leaves behind potholes, loose gravel, and uneven pavement. These hazards can go unnoticed in a car, but are dangerous for motorcycles. A minor road imperfection can cause a serious crash if you're not prepared.

3. Weather Changes

A clear day can turn stormy in minutes. Wet roads, especially after long dry spells, can become slick with oil and debris. Add in high heat, and you’ve got potential for tire blowouts and fatigue.

4. Speeding and Reckless Driving

With dry pavement and clear skies, some riders feel more confident pushing the limits. But even a minor miscalculation at high speeds can have tragic consequences. Drivers also tend to speed more in the summer, particularly on rural highways and scenic routes.

How to Ride Safer This Summer

Staying safe on a motorcycle requires a combination of gear, awareness, and smart decisions. Here are practical tips to lower your risk:

Wear Proper Gear — Even in the Heat

It’s tempting to wear light clothing when the temperature climbs, but protective gear saves lives. Invest in ventilated jackets, gloves, and pants designed for summer riding. Mesh motorcycle jackets offer airflow while still providing abrasion protection.

Hydrate and Rest

Dehydration can sneak up on you fast, especially under a helmet in the sun. Make regular stops to rest and drink water. A fatigue-related mistake can be just as dangerous as drunk driving.

Avoid Peak Traffic Hours

If you can, ride early in the morning or later in the evening when traffic is lighter and temperatures are cooler. Avoid holiday weekends and congested areas near beaches or attractions unless necessary.

Assume You’re Invisible

Most motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle, and most of those drivers say the same thing: “I didn’t see them.” Don’t assume you’re seen. Ride with your headlights on, use hand signals, and position yourself where you’re most visible in traffic.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

Even with the best precautions, accidents happen. If you’re involved in a crash, your next steps can make a big difference in your recovery — physically, emotionally, and financially.

  1. Call 911 and get medical attention immediately, even if you feel okay. Adrenaline can mask injuries.
  2. Document the scene — take photos, collect witness information, and get the driver’s insurance details.
  3. Don’t admit fault — let the facts be sorted out by investigators and your attorney.
  4. Contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. Insurance companies are not on your side, and you may be entitled to far more than you’re offered.

At Kiley Law Group, we’ve handled countless motorcycle injury claims and know how to fight for the compensation you deserve — medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. We’ve recovered over $1 billion for injury victims and are proud to be one of New England’s most trusted personal injury law firms.

Why Riders Choose Kiley Law Group

We’re not just attorneys, we’re your advocates. We understand the challenges motorcyclists face after an accident: the physical pain, the financial stress, and the uncertainty about what comes next.

Our team brings:

  • Over 50 years of personal injury experience
  • Hundreds of five-star reviews across Google and other platforms
  • Free consultations and no fee unless we win

When you call us, you’ll speak with a compassionate legal team that’s helped thousands of riders and their families find justice and peace of mind.

FAQs About Summer Motorcycle Accidents

Q: What are the most dangerous roads for motorcyclists in Massachusetts?
A: Routes like I-93, Route 128, and roads in Lowell, Lawrence, and the Merrimack Valley are common hotspots for accidents due to congestion, blind curves, and mixed driving styles.

Q: Can I still recover damages if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
A: Possibly. Massachusetts has a universal helmet law, but not wearing one doesn’t automatically bar you from compensation. It may affect the amount, depending on your injuries.

Q: How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim?
A: In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. It's best to contact a lawyer right away.

Q: Do you handle cases in New Hampshire, too?
A: Yes. We represent motorcycle accident victims across both Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

There’s no feeling like the freedom of riding in the summer — but there’s also no substitute for safety and preparation. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend cruise or a cross-state road trip, take the steps to protect yourself and ride smart.

And if the worst happens, know this: Kiley Law Group is here to help. We’ve recovered over $1 billion for injury victims, and we’ll fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for your free consultation. There’s no fee unless we win — and we’ve been winning for over 50 years.

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Massachusetts Accident Attorney Disclaimer: The personal injury legal information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice, nor the formation of a lawyer or attorney client relationship. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Please contact an attorney for a consultation on your particular personal injury matter. This website is not intended to solicit clients for matters outside of the state of Massachusetts.
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