Motorcycles have become a popular means of transportation, offering a sense of freedom that we don’t have when driving or riding in a car. But with that freedom comes a significantly increased risk of serious injury or death resulting from motorcycle accidents. Motorcycle fatalities have been on the rise for the past 10 years; in 2007, more than 5,150 people died in motorcycle crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). An additional 103,000 riders and passengers were injured in motorcycle wrecks in 2007. The NHTSA further reports that as of 2006, motorcyclists were approximately 35 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in auto accidents.

Of course the vehicle itself contributes to the severity of injuries sustained in an accident: unlike cars, motorcycles do not have airbags or crumple zones or protect riders and drivers from the road or other vehicles. Motorcycles and other motorbikes are also harder for other drivers to see. In the majority of motorcycle accidents involving another vehicle, it is actually the other driver and not the motorcycle driver who is at fault. Road hazards such as potholes, slick surfaces, uneven paving and debris in the roadway also pose more of a threat to motorcycles than they do to other automobiles. Design or manufacturing defects may contribute to dangerous crashes as well. For those who enjoy riding motorcycles, we do urge you to wear a helmet. The NHTSA estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,800 motorcyclists in 2007. An additional 800 lives could have been saved if all motorcyclists used a protective helmet in 2007.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident it is crucial that you contact an experienced accident lawyer immediately. You may have a limited time in which to file a claim. Our dedicated injury lawyers can help you obtain all of the compensation to which you may be entitled. This might include money for pain and suffering, emotional distress, medical bills and lost wages or other financial damages. Only a trial lawyer who has handled many motorcycle and other car accident matters can decide the best strategy for handling your case.

At Feldman Shepherd, we are committed to obtaining the best possible recovery for our clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey as expeditiously as possible. We are here to serve you with hard work, attention to detail and a caring approach tailored to your individual needs. If we may be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact us today.

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