Riding a motorcycle in New York can be exhilarating, but it’s inherently risky. In 2016, 128 riders died and untold thousands were injured in New York motorcycle accidents. Though any situation can result in a serious crash, statistics have shown most accidents occur for a few common reasons. An experienced Long Island motorcycle accident attorney can help you understand if you may be entitled to compensation based on the circumstances surrounding your crash and your injuries.
- Operator Error
Driver error is the most common reason motorcycle accidents occur in New York. It’s easy to make common mistakes on the road with catastrophic consequences, such as:
- Distracted driving behaviors like texting while driving,
- Speeding,
- Tailgating,
- Opening passenger vehicle doors without checking when a motorcyclist is approaching, and
- Failing to yield right of way to a motorcycle rider turning left in an intersection.
It’s impossible to control other drivers’ behavior, but you can practice safe riding techniques to avoid contributing to a dangerous situation while riding.
- Driving While Intoxicated
The NHTSA and CDC found 25 percent of motorcyclists were under the influence of alcohol when a fatal crash occurred in 2016. Riders who died at night were riding while impaired three times more often than riders who died during the day. This number doesn’t account for motorcycle accidents involving passenger vehicles whose drivers were intoxicated at the time.
The ideal solution to avoiding these accidents is only riding while sober. Riders should also watch for drivers who display signs of intoxicated driving such as swerving and keep their distance.
- Hazardous Road and Weather Conditions
With only 2 wheels balancing to keep them upright, motorcycle riders must watch road and weather conditions carefully and take precautions to avoid deadly hazards. Road hazards such as potholes, gravel, objects in the road, and uneven surfaces can cause catastrophic injuries or death to unsuspecting riders. Slick roads from rain, ice, or snow also contribute to many disastrous accidents. Avoid riding in bad weather if possible or else lower your speed and take familiar streets and routes when possible.
- Motorcycle Defects
Sometimes it only takes a minor defect in a motorcycle part for a catastrophic accident to occur. These defects can occur when designing, manufacturing, or distributing the part or afterwards while performing maintenance or installing the part. If a defective part caused your accident, several different parties could responsible for your injuries. An experienced Long Island Motorcycle Accident lawyer can investigate the facts, determine who’s to blame for the accident, and help you pursue maximum possible compensation from all responsible parties.
Speak to a Long Island Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Motorcycles are enjoyable, but the risks involved mean riders should take extra precautions to stay safe on the road. If an accident does happen, you should contact the Falkowitz Law Firm, PLLC to protect your rights and hold negligent parties accountable. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us 24/7 at (844)-385-4279 or by completing our online Contact Page to schedule a free, no-obligation initial consultation today. Let us use our knowledge and resources to get the best possible outcome for you from an unfortunate situation.
Gary P. Falkowitz is the Managing Partner and Founding Attorney of the Falkowitz Law Firm PLLC‚ one of the premiere personal injury law firms in New York. Gary received his J.D., in 2005 from St. John’s University School of Law and served as an Assistant District Attorney with the Kings County District Attorney’s Office.
