Few sensations match the exhilaration of driving down an Upstate New York Capital District highway on a motorcycle. Whether you are over 50 and “channeling” Peter Fonda or in your 20s, making memories of your own, nothing beats the sound, the smell, and the feel of a motorcycle. And nothing crashes harder. While each bike is different, accident analysts have identified the three most common causes of motorcycle accidents.
1. Speeding and Alcohol Use
Approximately one-half of all accident involving a single motorcycle are linked to two factors, often in combination: Speeding, and alcohol. Moreover, because the motorcycle driver has so little protection, these sorts of accidents are much more likely to result in death or serious injury. As many emergency room physicians point out, at 60 mph, a fancy helmet doesn’t do a lot of good. Wear your helmet, of course, but slow down and don’t drink and drive.
2. Cars Making Left-Hand Turns
Collisions between motorcycles and cars making left hand turns make up more than 40 percent of all accidents involving a motorcycle and a car. Quite often, it is the turning car that strikes the motorcycle. The auto driver’s common refrain: “I didn’t see him.” Just as dangerous, however, are accidents that are caused when the car turns in front of the oncoming cycle. While intersection accidents are also common between two or more cars, the situation is much different for the biker. Again, because the bike offers so little protection, the harm done to the bike driver can be enormous.
3. Head-On Collisions
These accidents, when a motorcycle strikes another vehicle head-on, account for more than 50 percent of all motorcycle accident deaths. As with intersection accidents, most of the time, it is the car striking the bike. Indeed, national statistics indicate that three out of every four head-on crashes involving a motorcycle are caused by the car hitting the bike.
Involved in a Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a family member have suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident, you owe it to yourself to consult with experienced, knowledgeable legal counsel to understand your rights. Depending upon the circumstances – and each accident is different – you may be able to recover some or all of your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Bear in mind that the time to file a claim or institute a lawsuit is limited.
Experienced, Concerned Counsel a Key to Recovery
Stewart Jones Hacker Murphy has the experience, knowledge, and attitude required to assist you in reaching the best possible outcome regarding your motorcycle accident injury. While most cases are settled short of trial, we also have the skills and tenacity required to take your case to a trial, if necessary.
We are one of the most highly respected law firms in upstate New York and the capital district. We have been representing clients for more than 125 years; our law practice has stood the test of time. Make the right call. Call us now at (518) 284-3183 or complete our online form. The E. Stewart Jones Hacker Murphy law firm has an attorney available to assist clients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year – even on holidays.