Now that the temperatures are rising slightly, you may have noticed more motorcycles on the road. In fact, many members of American Bikers Aimed Toward Education New York have already done their traditional season kick-off.
Last week in Syracuse, members of ABATE kicked off motorcycle season with the traditional ‘Blessing of the Bikes’, according to Your News Now. The 27-year-old tradition is a reminder that bikers are back on the roadways so it is time to start promoting motorcycle safety and awareness.
New York motorcycle accident attorney Nicholas Rose knows the responsibility falls both on the motorists and the motorcyclists to keep roadways safe. In 2009, 146 motorcyclists were killed in New York crashes.
Learning to share the road is critical. This early in the season, New York State Police have already had two incidents to respond to in Rockland. According to Nyack-Piermont Patch the first incident resulted in fatality of a middle-aged father of two. In the second incident the motorcyclist collided with a truck but remained unscathed walking away with minor injuries.
The majority of collisions occur when the vehicle driver fails to yield the right-of-way to a motorcyclist or doesn’t see them at all.
Some states require helmets to be worn, while others don’t. Some believe that helmets actually cause injury when involved in a crash. Research has shown that riders who wear helmets have survived a crash more often than a rider who does not. Motorcyclists are reminded that wearing a helmet is state law in New York and failure to do so can lead to $100 fine as well as possible jail time.
Motorcyclists should be aware of the things that are in their control when sharing the roadway with other motorists. Always wear a helmet and protective gear. Motorcyclists should wear bright clothing in order to be made more visible. Bikers should always be courteous to other motorists but alert for signs of aggressive driving. Aggressive behaviors often lead to fatal accidents.
Still, no amount of safe riding can guarantee you will not be involved in a New York motorcycle accident; over half of all accidents involving a passenger vehicle are the fault of the vehicle’s driver.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle or car accident in New York City or the surrounding areas, contact the Law Offices of Nicholas Rose to be advised of your rights. For a free initial consultation call 1-877-313-7673 or 1-718-261-0546 to discuss your rights today.
