Montville — A Branford man was seriously injured Monday night on Interstate 395 south when he lost control of his motorcycle as he attempted to avoid an earlier car accident.

Police said 75-year-old Charles Esterby was riding the motorcycle just past the Mobil station when he swerved into the left lane to avoid a car in the right lane that had crashed into a guardrail.

Police said the motorcycle flipped onto its side, throwing Esterby off the bike.

Police said Esterby was conscious at the scene and was taken to the William W. Backus Hospital, where he was listed Tuesday in serious condition.

Esterby was wearing a helmet.

The area of the accident scene was closed for about an hour.