Following a recent motorcycle accident in Lee County, Georgia, state law enforcement is reminding motorists to be especially mindful of motorcyclists, as one misstep could leave these individuals dead or seriously injured.

This is exactly what happened in the recent accident, when the driver of an SUV did not spot a motorcyclist and pulled out in front of him. A senior trooper for the Georgia State Patrol said the male motorcyclist was traveling south on Georgia Highway 3 while the SUV was heading north on the same road. Without spotting the motorcycle, the female driver of the SUV turned left into a supermarket parking lot, putting the SUV directly in the motorcycle's path.

The motorcyclist tried to swerve out of the way but could not avoid the collision. The motorcyclist was thrown about 30 feet from his vehicle and landed on the pavement, sustaining catastrophic injuries. He was taken to a hospital with a fractured arm and pelvis. He also sustained internal injuries that led to lengthy surgery. Fortunately the man is still alive and listed in critical, but stable, condition.

Police took the opportunity to remind motorists that they need to pay special attention for motorcyclists on the road and understand that the vehicles are a lot smaller than cars and could be tougher to detect. One motorcyclist said many drivers do not care about the safety of motorcyclists, which makes it especially hazardous for them.

When someone hits a motorcyclist, they could end up being held liable for any injuries they caused, or could even face a wrongful death lawsuit if the motorcyclist dies.

Source: WALB-TV Channel 10, "Troopers urge drivers to be aware of motorcyclists," Gianna Caserta, Jan. 8, 2012