Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Pennsylvania
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Motorcycles remain a popular option across Pennsylvania roads. Unfortunately, motorcyclists face unique dangers when traveling on the roads as they are vulnerable to the negligence of other drivers and challenges that may arise, putting them at risk of injury or death. As a motorcycle rider in an accident, you can face an uphill battle when fighting insurers for the compensation you may be eligible for under the law. Proving the negligence of another driver or party is vital when filing a claim or lawsuit seeking compensation as a motorcycle accident victim.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents due to driver negligence include:
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Failure to follow traffic signs and signals
At HGSK Law Firm, we understand how motorcycle accidents can happen, and we can help determine what parties may be liable to you and who may be responsible for compensating you for your subsequent damages following a motorcycle crash.
Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Motorcycle ridership has been on a slight decline in recent years. However, nearly 800,000 individuals remain registered motorcyclists in Pennsylvania, and over 370,000 motorcycles are registered with the state. Although motorcycle registrations in the state are far less than passenger vehicles, the outcome of accidents is more severe and involves injuries and deaths when a motorcycle is involved.
During one year, there were over 3,300 motorcycle crashes that occurred within Pennsylvania. These crashes resulted in over 3,100 motorcyclists suffering injuries and over 200 fatalities of motorcycle riders. The danger of motorcycle riding is apparent as the outcome of most of the motorcycle accidents in Pennsylvania resulted in an injury or death, unlike passenger vehicle accidents where some parties may escape a collision unscathed.
Over 50 percent of the motorcyclists involved in an accident were wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, with over 30 percent not wearing a helmet. For a small percentage of riders, the helmet status was unknown.
What Days and Months Are Most Dangerous for Motorcycles in Pennsylvania?
Many factors can influence when motorcyclists are at the highest risk of a crash while traveling Pennsylvania roads. A factor that many may need to consider is the time of day or time of year. However, when a motorcyclist rides, it can influence the dangers present on the roads and whether they are more likely to become an accident victim.
For example, in Pennsylvania, the months associated with the highest incidence of accidents are October, November, December, and January. Weather, increased traffic in the area, and road conditions may all play a part in why these months are more dangerous than others to motorcycle riders. Additionally, it is most common for accidents to take place on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in comparison to the other days of the week. The weekend, often associated with relaxing, partying, drinking, and late hours, can cause drivers to engage in riskier behaviors and negligent driving that places motorcyclists at much higher risk of injury or fatality.
Contact HGSK Law Firm Today
If you are a victim of a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania, the law may entitle you to compensation for your losses. Filing a claim is vital to pursuing the compensation you may be eligible for. The claims process for a motorcycle accident can be challenging and uncertain. At HGSK Law Firm, contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case. We understand the challenges you face in the aftermath of a motorcycle crash, and we can help you figure out the options available in your case.