The 100-year-old driver did not see the motorcyclist coming, "I looked out on the street and there was a fella laying there. I thought, 'how did this guy get here?'" The claim of not seeing the motorcyclist is an all-too-common excuse in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident in Ohio and elsewhere.

This motorcyclist wound up in the hospital in critical condition when he quickly went from rider to victim. His current condition is still unknown. He will likely face extremely steep medical expenses and a long and possibly painful recovery.

The 100-year-old's family alleges that despite his age he is in great health, maintains excellent vision and is very alert. This accident would point otherwise. This man being too old is no excuse for what happened. He is liable. The motorcyclist is very lucky to have escaped with his life.

The motorcyclist could be entitled to compensation for the resulting damages. Hospital stays are no cheap fare. Furthermore, additional care and attention are necessitated when a patient, like this victim, is wounded so badly that they are classified as being in critical condition.

Ohio drivers, as well as all drivers across the country, absolutely must start seeing motorcyclists. Motorcyclists maintain as much a right to share the roadway as any other vehicle. Furthermore they have the right to do so safely. If drivers do not begin paying attention to motorcyclists, they will be held liable for the damages inflicted and lives stolen.

Source: The Ledger, "100-Year-Old Driver Who Collided With Motorcyclist Has clean record," Danny Valentine and Shelley Rossetter, April 5, 2012