Is It True That Motorcycles Are More Dangerous Than Cars?
Riding a motorcycle is a great way to get around New York City. Motorcycles are very convenient and more economical to own and operate than automobiles. Despite their advantages, there’s no getting away from the fact that motorcycle riders are more likely to be involved in accidents, and when accidents occur, motorcycle riders and their passenger are more likely to sustain serious injuries or fatalities.
Why Drivers Often Have a Hard Time Spotting Motorcyclists
Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately common, and this is mainly due to drivers not spotting motorcyclists on the road. Factors contributing to this issue include motorcyclist size and visibility, driver inattention, lack of motorcycle awareness, blind spots, speed perception, and road conditions.
Personal injury attorneys play a major role in advocating for motorcyclist safety and providing legal resources for those involved in accidents.
How Do Motorcyclists Receive Compensation After an Accident?
New York is a no-fault state, meaning each driver must file against their own insurance company after an accident, no matter who was at fault. However, Article 51 of New York’s Insurance Laws, which defines no-fault insurance in New York, has extremely specific language. Under this law, motorcycles are treated as separate vehicles altogether when compared to cars, trucks, and buses. As a result of this categorization, New York’s no-fault insurance laws do not apply to motorcyclists, which can drastically impact your ability to receive compensation after a motorcycle accident.
Pelvic Injuries Following a Motorcycle Accident
During a motorcycle collision, most riders are forced onto their sides, causing severe trauma to their lower extremities. While some cases may only end in a broken ankle or torn hamstring, many suffer from catastrophic injuries to their hips. This can involve damage to the pelvic muscles, as well as fractures in the hip’s three bones: the ilium, the ischium, and the pubis. Recovering from such injuries can be extremely difficult for a motorcyclist, and an accident will often leave them with mobility issues for years to come.