On August 21, 2024, on state road number 8 in Zakosa, a place near Senj, a serious traffic accident occurred with an injured person.

The driver of the car, a 43-year-old German citizen, was driving a vehicle with German license plates. He was heading from Senj towards Sveti Juraj when he decided to turn left. However, during the turn, he failed to yield to all oncoming vehicles. This led to a collision with a motorcycle bearing Slovenian license plates, driven by a 35-year-old Slovenian citizen. The accident resulted in serious injuries to the motorcyclist, who was urgently transported to KBC Rijeka where he was kept for treatment.

This accident has once again highlighted the issue of motorcycle safety on the road, as well as the responsibility of car drivers who often neglect the presence of these road users.

The importance of attention when turning

One of the main reasons for collisions between cars and motorcycles is the driver's inattention when turning. Turning left without checking for oncoming traffic, as was the case in this accident, often leads to serious consequences. Motorcycles, due to their smaller silhouette and speed, are less noticeable, requiring extra attention from all drivers.

Common mistakes by car drivers

Car drivers often make mistakes when they do not pay enough attention to motorcyclists on the road. Among the most common mistakes are failing to yield the right of way, insufficient attention when changing lanes or turning, and ignoring blind spots in side mirrors. Additionally, some drivers underestimate the acceleration of motorcycles, which can result in accidents like this one.

Risks for motorcyclists

On the other hand, motorcyclists also often take risks that can lead to accidents. Speeding, riding without protective gear such as helmets, and riding on surfaces not intended for motorcycles are just a few examples. Additionally, motorcyclists who perform dangerous maneuvers such as overtaking lines of vehicles or riding between stopped cars further endanger their safety.

The lack of lights during the day also contributes to their reduced visibility on the road, which can lead to fatal outcomes. Moreover, driving unregistered or technically faulty vehicles further increases the risk of being involved in traffic accidents.

A call for caution and responsibility

This accident in Zakosa serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the need for increased attention from all road users, especially under conditions where motorcyclists are present on the road. Car drivers must be aware of the dangers they can cause through careless actions, while motorcyclists should respect the limitations of their vehicles and not take unnecessary risks.

Increased awareness of potential dangers and adherence to traffic regulations are key steps in reducing the number of accidents and injuries on the roads. All road users must act responsibly to avoid tragedies like the one that occurred in Zakosa.