Due to the vulnerability of motorcycle riders and their passengers, even seemingly innocuous motorcycle accidents can result in significant injuries. In fact, motorcyclists and their passengers are thirty-five (35) times more likely to be involved in a fatal motor vehicle accident than the operators of other motor vehicles. In the United States between 2001 and 2008, more than 34,000 riders and their passengers were killed and another 1.2 million were injured in motorcycle crashes. In motorcycle accidents alone, almost 200 riders lost their lives and an additional 4,550 were injured in 5,336 crashes last year.
In addition to the lack of structural protection motorcycle riders and their passengers are afforded, motorcycles are also harder for other drivers to see in traffic because of their smaller size in comparison to other motor vehicles. This makes gauging distance and speed more difficult for other motorists.
A motorcycle accident is generally premised on a theory of negligence. Negligence is a legal theory that imposes a duty of care on an individual’s conduct. If that individual’s conduct falls below the standard of care in which a reasonable prudent person would exercise under similar circumstances, that individual is said to breach the standard of care and can be liable for any reasonably foreseeable harm or damages. In addition to violating traffic statutes, which may give rise under a theory of negligence per se, some common factors causing motorcycle accidents are as follows:
- Excessive speed;
- Driver inexperience;
- Drunk driving;
- Distracted driving;
- Failing to stop at a red light or stop sign;
- Unsafe turns, particularly left-turns;
- Following too closely;
- Defective motor vehicle parts;
- Defective roadway designs or maintenance;
- Failing to yield; and
- Aggressive driving.
Due to the lack of protection motorcycle riders and their passengers have, it is more likely that serious injuries will be sustained in a motorcycle accident. In fact, most motorcycle accidents result in the rider and passenger being ejected and launched from the motorcycle. Some of the most injuries that our experienced law firm has handled include the following:
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Spinal cord and back injuries;
- Crushed and fractured bones;
- Road rash;
- Knee, shoulder, and other joint damage;
- Amputation of extremities including arms, legs, hands, and feet;
- Deep lacerations;
- Soft tissue injuries;
- Organ ruptures; and
- Death.
The types of injuries are life changing and can have an overburdening impact on all aspects of a person’s life. These injuries not only affect the physical aspects of a person’s life, but also the emotional and financial impact on a person and his or her family. Many times a motorcycle accident victim will be unable to return for work for an extended period of time.
If you, a loved one, or someone you know has been injured in a motorcycle accident, please contact an experienced attorney today. The statute of limitations is only three (3) years, and can be as short as ninety (90) days if the State or municipality is involved. It is absolutely free to have us review your case with you and discuss your legal rights and remedies that you may have.
The Hudson motorcycle accident attorneys at Greenberg and Greenberg handle cases throughout New York State, including Columbia, Greene, Rensselaer, and Albany County. Our legal team has earned a reputation for dedicated service to our clients injured in New York personal injury accidents. Please contact us today to receive a FREE case evaluation by dialing locally to 518-828-3336 or call toll free at 877-469-9300.