Senator Patty Ritchie recently put out a call to the public to be aware of the dramatically increased number of motorcyclists on New York streets-especially in the warm summer months (unfortunately, statistics show you’re 30 times more likely to die on the back of a bike than in a car.) She reiterated that it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure the New York City and state roadways are as safe as they can possibly be and announced the passage of a bill she sponsored in the state senate that would help increase safety for motorcyclists statewide.
In NYC, the problems motorcyclists face are even more exaggerated. Over the past five years, the number of motorcycles registered has jumped 12%. Unfortunately, the number of New York City motorcycle accident fatalities has increased even more dramatically. Official DOT data shows that between 2009 and 2012 the number of motorcyclists killed on New York City streets ballooned by 20%. That doesn’t include the number of pedestrians or other motorists killed or injured in motorcycle accidents (such as the pedestrian who was struck by a motorcycle crossing Flatbush Avenue in 2009). Strangely, the number of motorcycle fatalities nationwide actually decreased during that same time period.
In an effort to decrease these alarming numbers, the New York State senate unanimously passed a bill that would mandate motorcycle awareness training to the DMV’s pre-license testing.
New York City motorcycle accidents are costly and tragic. Even if the rider isn’t killed instantly, there may be long term or even lifelong consequences of the accident that strap families financially, emotionally, and spiritually. The Government Accountability Office tracked motorcycle accidents across the country and revealed that the 82,000 accidents and 4,502 fatalities in 2012 cost a whopping 16 billion dollars. The financial impact of non-fatal accidents ranged from $2,500 to $1.4 million based on the extent of injuries. That is a tremendous burden for families to bear-especially if the accident wasn’t their fault.
An experienced New York City motorcycle accident attorney can help find a solution to the financial catastrophe that can result from a bike accident. From improper lane changes to cases involving distracted drivers, every injury or wrongful death lawsuit deserves vigorous representation. You and your loved ones deserve compensation for pain and suffering, medical bills, lost wages, and more. Don’t let a motorcycle accident ruin your life. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel for a free consultation to learn your rights at or 212-385-1122.