There has been a lot of uproar lately regarding motorcyclists in New York City since the “aggressive gang ride crash and grab attack” that happened a few months ago. But that is the minority, not the majority of bikers. Most bike enthusiasts, just want to get out on the road and enjoy a great ride. Many New York state highways and country roads are picturesque. They are ideal for hopping on your motorcycle and taking a pleasure cruise on a Sunday. And, even though motorcyclists are tired of hearing the same concerns time-and-again, there are new motorcycle riders that need to hear the gospel of motorcycle safety.
Motorcycle Safety
No time is more appropriate for this discussion than Motorcycle Safety Month in May. It is a time to get out on the road, either as a loner or part of a group, and enjoy the freedom of the open road and the wind in your face. However, how can we minimize the risk to motorcycle riders? Let’s start with the helmet, since they are required by law in New York state and greatly reduce the risk of head and neck injury, as well as trauma to the brain. Here are some of the basics:
New York State Helmet Requirements & Restrictions
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Required by Law |
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Required by law |
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Single earphone only |
Even though a helmet is required, there are still several potentially lethal dangers that motorcyclists face. According to the NY State Department of Motor Vehicles, in 2012:
- There were 5,916 total motorcycle accidents, 164 of which were fatal.
- In addition, there were 1,180 serious injuries reported
- 629, or 10.2 percent of riders did not wear a helmet
So, be sure to wear your helmet to ensure head and neck safety, as well as to be legally responsible. However, another danger to motorcyclists exists, and that is other drivers not respecting their fellow motorists on two or three wheels.
Preventing Dangers to Motorcyclists
- Make sure your bike is well-lit with functional head-and-tail lights, and that your clothing is bright and visible to other motorists
- Be sure that you maintain a safe distance from other motor vehicles
- Be careful when passing cars because motorcycles may be loud, but they easily get lost in a car or truck’s blind spot
- The most common accident “against” motorcyclists is when a vehicle is turning left and does not see the biker to their left. So be aware. You need to watch for the drivers as well as for yourself.
- Most motorcycle accidents occur because another driver of a vehicle was NOT paying attention, so bikers need to be more conscious and aware on the road.
Motorcycle riders may be tired of hearing these tips over-and-over, but that is only because loved ones want them to be safe while enjoying the thrill of riding. Also, being a biker is not always a solo endeavor. Follow these additional tips to keep you AND your passengers safe:
More Motorcycle Safety Tips:
- Wear the appropriate riding gear, as leather jackets and long, thick pants protect your skin from surface abrasions in case of an accident
- Abstain from the use of drugs and alcohol, as they are the primary factors in many motorcycle accidents
- Make sure your bike is properly maintained to keep it in top functioning condition, and
- Obey traffic laws at all times
The attorneys at Fellows Hymowitz Rice P.C. have a record of success in handling a wide range of cases including motorcycle accidents, car accidents, serious injury & wrongful death claims. We bring the same individual commitment and dedication to each case, big or small.
If you have been injured or sustained loss in any type of accident as a result of someone else’s fault call us for a free confidential consultation at 845-639-9300.
Fellows Hymowitz Rice, PC, The Right Lawyers Make a Real Difference