Tragic Crash Reported on Interstate 40 in Raleigh, North Carolina (NC)

RALEIGH, NC- Cbs17.com writes that a deadly motorcycle crash took place during heavy rainfall on Interstate 40 in Raleigh, North Carolina. The incident occurred in the late afternoon close to the South Sanders Street exit. Some lanes were later reopened in the early evening.*

Details were limited, but police confirmed that the incident involved a motorcycle fatality. 

Motorcyclists face risks when riding in the rain. Motorcycles lose grip on the road when it is wet. The worst time to ride is early in a rainstorm. Oil accumulates on the road when it is dry out, and the rain lifts that oil leading to especially slippery roads. The road becomes less treacherous when the water has managed to rinse some of that oil off the pavement. 

Fortunately, the narrower tires on a motorcycle make hydroplaning less likely that it would be for cars. Still, it is possible to hydroplane on two wheels, so riders should learn how to react in these scenarios. Another factor is that metal, which is used for manhole covers, becomes extremely slippery when it is wet, as do painted lines and other features on the road. 

Visibility becomes a problem for motorcyclists in the rain too. The motorcyclist’s visibility is not the only issue though, motorcyclists are contending with drivers in larger vehicles who are having more trouble seeing. The best move for a person on a motorcycle is to slow down to help them see the road ahead better and identify hazards with enough time to avoid them. 

Motorcyclists also state that gear is important when riding in the rain. When a motorcyclist is not comfortable, they often fail to ride at their best skill level. 

Accident News is a safety and education initiative from Montlick & Associates, designed to help people better understand and thereby avoid common accident causes.  To learn more about our injury prevention programs, including iridesafe.com - click here. We hope you are never in an accident, but if you or a family member are injured, call Montlick & Associates 24/7 for your free consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333) or use our live chat at Montlick.com.

Sources:

https://www.cbs17.com/news/local-news/wake-county-news/crash-closes-lanes-of-westbound-i-40-near-s-saunders-street-in-raleigh/

https://www.rideapart.com/articles/254439/safety-how-to-ride-a-motorcycle-in-the-rain/