A motorcyclist had to be airlifted to a Pittsburgh hospital recently after he was involved in a collision with a motorist.

The motorcycle accident occurred on Saxonburg Road in Jefferson Township. The 53-year-old Butler man was seriously hurt when he was struck at about 10:45 p.m. by a car driven by a 92-year-old man from Butler.

Police say the driver of the car turned onto Saxonburg Road “without proper clearance.” The motorcyclist tried to stop, but could not and a collision ensued.

The driver of the car, who suffered only minor injuries, later said he did not see the motorcyclist.

That last comment is one that is commonly heard when there is a motorcycle accident. Other drivers often claim they simply did not see the motorcyclist. On top of less visibility, motorcyclists are also less protected in accidents. Car drivers have a metal shell around them to keep them safe, but motorcyclists do not. The motorcyclist in this case was wearing a helmet, which may have saved his life. Other than a helmet, there is very little protection to shield a motorcyclist from harm when there is a collision.

All people who operate vehicles on the road have a duty to drive safely, but it is simply a fact that motorcyclists face greater dangers than do car drivers. If you are ever injured in a motorcycle accident, you may want to speak with a personal injury attorney. He or she might be able to piece together the facts of the accident and determine whether you have a case against the other driver.

Source: Valley News Dispatch, “Cycle, car collide,” July 18, 2011.