Top Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Summer

 Posted on June 18, 2026 in Motorcycle Accidents

Summer is the deadliest time of year to be on a motorcycle. An AAA Northeast analysis of available data found that almost 60 percent of motorcyclist deaths happen between May and September. Even non-fatal summer accidents can lead to severe injuries because of the lack of protection offered by motorcycles.

Primary causes of motorcycle accidents include more motorcyclists on the road in general, heavier car traffic, and poor driving behaviors that often increase during summer months. A Shelton, CT motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand your options if you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in 2026.

Why Are Motorcycle Accidents More Common in the Summer?

Summer months see more motorcycle accidents in part because there are simply more bikers on roads during warmer weather. However, several other factors also increase the likelihood of accidents:

• Riders may need several rides to fully recover their biking reflexes.

• Summer travel and tourists may crowd the roads, especially on weekends or near vacation spots.

• Drivers also tend to have more passengers in summer, which can increase distraction levels.

• Young and inexperienced drivers often spend more time driving during the summer months than during the school year.

• Summer holidays and activities often lead to increased alcohol consumption. Impaired drivers may not have the awareness or reaction time to prevent an accident.

Understanding these risks can help you better gauge fault for your accident claim. 

What Are the Most Common Causes of Summer Motorcycle Wrecks in Connecticut?

Left-turn collisions are one of the most common and dangerous types of motorcycle accidents. A car turning left across traffic may not see an oncoming motorcycle – or may misjudge how fast it's approaching – and turn directly into its path.

Speeding, either by drivers or motorcyclists, is also a common cause of summer motorcycle accidents. Dry roads give the illusion of safety, encouraging speed, but an accident at high speed can be deadly. This is especially true for bikers. Risky behaviors such as speeding may also be compounded by increased alcohol use during the summer months.

Does Rider Behavior Affect a Motorcycle Claim in Connecticut?

How a rider was operating their motorcycle can affect a claim. Connecticut has specific rules for motorcyclists. Failing to follow these can result in rider liability.

Several of these rules that often come up in motorcycle accident claims involve lane splitting and helmet usage. According to Connecticut General Statutes § 14-289b, a motorcycle can't be operated between lanes of traffic or pass another vehicle in the same lane. Similarly, motorcycles cannot be ridden side-by-side in a lane.

Approved helmets are required for riders under 18. If your accident involves a minor who was not wearing a helmet, it may affect what you can recover.

Connecticut follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can recover compensation as long as you're not more than 50 percent at fault, though your recovery is reduced by your share of the blame.

What Should I Do After a Summer Motorcycle Accident in Connecticut?

If you’re in a bike accident, make sure the police are called immediately. Get witness contact information and take photos of the scene, your bike, and your injuries if you’re able. Get medical attention as soon as you can after the accident, even if you feel okay. Keep your gear, including your helmet, even if it’s damaged. It may help demonstrate how the crash played out.

Connecticut generally gives injured people two years from the date of their accident to file a personal injury claim. Filing earlier ensures you don’t miss any important deadlines.

Call a Bridgeport, CT Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today

For more than 65 years, Tremont Sheldon P.C. has given clients concierge-level service. At our firm, you’ll always speak to an attorney who knows you and your case. Our Shelton, CT personal injury attorneys have over a century of combined experience and have recovered more than $750 million for clients. Our client’s trust is evident in our 150-plus five-star reviews and the fact that the majority of our new cases come from existing client referrals.

We're available 24/7 and work on a contingency fee basis. That means you won’t pay unless we win. Call us at 203-335-5145 today for a free consultation. Your call reaches our office directly rather than a call center.

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