Accident in Queens Causes Motorcyclist’s Death

Motorcycle ridership is on the rise across the country, and New York City is no exception. While motorcycles can offer an unrivaled sense of freedom, they also pose some serious risks to riders. Every year, thousands of riders are injured or killed in motorcycle accidents, often through no fault of their own.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a shocking 80% of motorcycle accidents result in injury or death. The good news is, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of being injured in an accident while riding your motorcycle in New York City.

Left Turns by Cars a Common Hazard for Motorcyclists

This collision between the motorcycle and the van is unfortunately an example of an all-too-common risk that motorcyclists face every day. One of the most common types of motorcycle accidents is where, as was the case here, a motorist turns left at an intersection and into the path of an oncoming motorcyclist. According to reports, over 40% of collisions between motorcyclists and cars involve the car turning left into an intersection.

While we don’t know what the exact circumstances of this particular accident were, in many cases it is the driver who negligently fails to notice the oncoming motorcyclist or to provide sufficient space. Drivers reportedly often tell the investigating police that they did not see the oncoming motorcyclist.

Safety courses for motorcyclists suggest that they approach intersections with caution, keep their eyes down the road for potential turning cars, and position themselves at the left of the lane to provide room to swerve to the left of the oncoming car if need be.

Recovery is Available For Injured Motorcyclists and Their Families

When a car turns left into an intersection and collides with a motorcycle, it is nearly always the automobile driver who will found to be at fault. In some cases where the motorcyclist is speeding, the motorcyclist may be at fault as well, but this does not necessarily mean the motorcyclist is barred from recovery. Injured motorcyclists (or their families where the motorcyclist has died in the accident) can bring a personal injury lawsuit to recover the damages they have suffered in the accident, including: medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and related costs. In many cases, defendants and insurers will settle the claims and trial can be avoided.

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in New York, motorcycle accident attorney Justin Brandel can help you obtain the recovery you deserve under New York law. Contact The Law Offices of Justin D. Brandel to set up a free consultation.

June 28, 2016
6:50 pm

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