May is Motorcycle Awareness Month, Accidents Remain High in NY

According to Time Warner Cable News, as motorcycle accidents are on the rise in New York, state agencies are trying to educate the public about safety through Motorcycle Awareness Month.

“The ultimate goal is to protect motorcycles and make motorists more aware of motorcyclists,” said Motorcycle Awareness Program Manager Jim Halvorsen, according to the news source.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, held nationally each May, began in 1983 when the governor of Illinois wanted to bring attention to the increased number of motorcyclists on the road during this month, as more operators are on the roadway because of warmer temperatures.

“In 2013, a total of 17,275 new students were taught how to ride a motorcycle in New York state,” said Ben Zadrozny, program manager of the New York State Motorcycle Safety Program, recently to the Times Herald-Record.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently reported several reasons why motorcycle accidents occur, including an operator’s potential:

• Lack of basic riding skills
• Failure to appreciate the inherent operating characteristics
• Failure to appreciate the limitations of the motorcycle
• Failure to use special precautions while riding
• Failure to use defensive driving techniques
• Lack of specific braking and cornering skills
• Failure to follow speed limit

Additionally, motorcycle accidents can be caused by other negligent drivers on roadways who may be distracted, speeding, following too closely or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

What Should I Do If I Am Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?

The NHTSA recently estimated that riders of motorcycles are 37 percent more likely to die in accidents than drivers and passengers of cars. Additionally, injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents are often catastrophic and can include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, amputations and broken bones.

If you lose a loved one or are injured in a motorcycle accident, you should seek damages. For more information on motorcycle accidents, you can also visit our Facebook page, LinkedIn page, Google+ page or our Twitter page. Contact us today.

KGG’s Corner: In 2012, there were 164 fatal motorcycle accidents in New York.

Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C. – Rockland County Injury Lawyers