Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
For many people, riding a motorcycle is an environmentally friendly way to get around as well as an exhilarating experience. However, riding a motorcycle can be dangerous.
A motorcycle does not offer riders a lot of protection from other vehicles on the road. Their small size makes them difficult to see so it’s easy for them to fall into driver’s blind sights.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be compensated for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. The Bloomsburg, PA law offices of Luschas, Naparsteck & Crane, LLP can help you get the justice you deserve.
The Statistics
Although motor vehicle accidents have declined over the past few years, motorcycle accidents have increased. The Washington Post reported that while car accidents have decreased by 28%, motorcycle accident related deaths have seen a 26% increase.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety counts motorcycle accident related deaths at approximately 4,000 a year. Some years they can be as high as 5,000.
Motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to die in an accident as compared to other motor vehicle drivers. They are five times more likely to sustain non-fatal injuries.
The State of Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General reports that more than 50% of accidents occur at intersections and more than two thirds of drivers claim they didn’t see the motorcyclist until it was too late.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can happen for any number of reasons. Here are some of the most common causes.
- Unsafe Lane Changes and Turns: These occur when the driver fails to check his rear view or blind spots before getting over.
- Car Doors: When motorists open their car doors without checking to see if a motorcycle is coming, it can result in an accident.
- Dangerous Road Conditions: Sometimes an accident can be caused by dangerous road conditions such as slick roads or debris. In these instances, a contractor or the city may be responsible for damages.
- Faulty Equipment: If faulty equipment exists in the car or motorcycle, it may cause the vehicle to act unpredictably and cause an accident. In these situations, the vehicle manufacturer may be at fault.
- Speeding: If a driver is speeding behind a motorcycle, the motorcycle may need to stop abruptly. This can cause a rear end accident that can do serious damage to the rider and their vehicle.
- Driving Under the Influence: Driving under the influence can impair judgement making accidents more likely. Drivers must remain sober if they plan on getting in their vehicles.
Common Motorcycle Injuries
Because a motorcyclist does not have much protection when riding, they can sustain serious injuries. Here are some of the most common.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Road burn
- Amputations
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
Pennsylvania Helmet Laws
Helmets must be worn by all riders under 21. Those who have two years of riding experience or have completed a motorcycle course approved by PennDOT of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation may also be exempt.
Motorcycle helmets worn must meet the standards of the United States Department of Transportation. This will be signified by a DOT sticker.
The helmet must also be labeled with the following information:
- Size
- Identification of manufacture
- Precise model identification
- Month and year the helmet was manufactured
In addition to wearing a helmet, riders are also required to wear eyewear to protect their eyes from wind, bugs, rocks and other flying objects. This will increase visibility when driving making for safer conditions.
Motorcycle Licenses in Pennsylvania
In order to ride a motorcycle in Pennsylvania, you must have a valid motorcycle license. In applying for your license, you will have to take a course that instructs you on how to handle your vehicle on the road to reduce the likelihood of an accident.
To get the license you will need to take a basic motorcycle safety test and apply for a Class M permit. If you are under the age of 18, you must carry your permit for 6 months and have at least 65 hours of supervised driving before you take your skills test.
If you pass your skills test, you will be able to get a motorcycle license.
Luschas, Naparsteck & Crane, LLP Can Represent You in a Motorcycle Accident Claim
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, it can result in injuries that greatly reduce quality of life. Luschas, Naparsteck & Crane, LLP can help you get the justice you deserve.
At Luschas, Naparsteck & Crane, LLP we have over 40 years of experience dealing with Pennsylvania motorcycle accidents and personal injury claims. We have established a track record for getting our clients the best possible outcomes.
A motorcycle accident can rob you of your enjoyment of life. Don’t let at fault parties get away with it. Luschas, Naparsteck & Crane, LLP can help.
