Motorcyclists are susceptible to serious injuries or even death when they are involved in a New York City motorcycle accident. Motorcyclists are subject to direct impact to other vehicles if contacted. When thrown off the motorcycle, they make direct contact the roadway or other objects.
New York City Motorcycle Accidents
In 2013, there were over 1,500 New York City motorcycle accidents.
In all of New York, there is a yearly average of 165 deaths due to motor vehicle traffic-related motorcyclist injuries. The rates were highest for males between the ages 20 – 24.
The yearly average for hospitalizations due to motor vehicle traffic-related motorcyclist injuries is 1,606.
Causes of Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycles lack the visibility of other vehicles because of their size, and, therefore, other drivers may fail to observe them.
Other drivers may also operate their vehicle in a negligent and careless manner leading to a New York City motorcycle accident. These other operators may fail to yield the right of way, cut the motorcyclist off or follow too closely.
Motorcycles are also more susceptible to defective roadways or potholes than other types of motorists.
Safety Helmet
New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 381 states as follows:
It shall be unlawful for any person to operate or ride upon a motorcycle unless he wears a protective helmet of a type which meets the requirements set forth in section 571.218 of the federal motor vehicle safety standards…
According to the CDC, in New York in 2010, helmets saved the lives of 29 people per 100,000 registered motorcycles.
The CDC estimates that the following:
- Helmets reduce the risk of death by 37%.
- Helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69%.
- The United States saved $3 billion due to helmet use in 2010.
- The United States could have saved an additional $1.4 billion in 2010 if all motorcyclists had worn helmets.
No-Fault Law
New York No-fault law mandates that all automobiles carry $50,000.00 in personal injury protection benefits. These benefits would protect someone injured in a car accident, covering such things as medical expenses and lost wages.
Motorcycles are excluded from this law and do not carry personal injury protection benefits. This means that a motorcyclist injured in an accident is left to his/her own devices to cover medical expenses and lost wages.
What to do if you are injured in a Motorcycle accident?
Persons injured in a motorcycle crashes face a trying and difficult time. In addition to the injuries sustained, there are medical expenses and potential lost wages.
It is, obviously, important to fist obtain the necessary medical care and treatment. At the same time, it is wise to speak to a accident attorney as soon as possible after the accident.
We can investigate the accident scene while the evidence is still fresh. We will determine all parties that may be at fault for the accident. Should we find that another party was negligent in causing the accident, we will aggressively pursue the maximum possible award to cover pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages and other damages.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been injured in a New York City motorcycle accident, we are here to fight for your rights. Call Mr. DiMartini directly at 1-855-428-7322. You can also contact us online. The consultation is free. There is never a fee unless we win your case!
