Motorcyclists are almost 30 times more likely to die in collision than people driving or riding in automobiles. The riders are exposed and, open to the elements and it is this freedom that attracts many people to motorcycling.
However, it is also this freedom which entices many drivers to engage in dangerous activities. Indeed the speed and maneuverability of these machines tempts many to play fast and loose with traffic laws. Motorcyclists have been known to engage in:
- Speeding
- Illegal lane changes
- Riding in non-travel lanes (break down or bike lanes)
- “Stunt” riding
However, as dangerous as motorcycles are to the rider, they’re doubly dangerous to pedestrians. In recent months there have been a number of tragic motorcycle accidents in New York City .
Worst yet, many pedestrians simply aren’t prepared to protect themselves from motorcycle accidents.
But the danger is real:
In 2013 a 50-year old man was struck and killed by a motorcyclist in Sunnydale. One instant he was simply crossing the street. The next, he was on his way to a hospital where doctors would try in vain to save his life.
- Last year a near-fatal motorcycle accident in Manhattan put a 24-year pedestrian in the hospital with life-threatening injuries.
- This spring an elderly woman suffered a serious leg injury when injured by a motorcyclist while crossing the street in Hempstead on Long Island.
- These are just some of the harrowing run-ins New York pedestrians have had with men and women on motorcycles. Just like automobiles, motorcycles can present a real danger to pedestrians in New York City and should be treated with the same respect and caution as automobiles.
If you’ve been injured by a motorcycle or if you’ve lost a loved one in a crash similar to these, you may have legal options available to you. Speak with an expert New York City motorcycle accident attorney today. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel for a free consultation at or 212-385-1122 to learn your rights.