Failure to Yield Motorcycle Accidents in New York
Motorcyclists must follow the same right-of-way rules as drivers of passenger vehicles. Often, other motorists do not understand or uphold these rights and violate the motorcyclists’ right of way. In the majority of failure to yield accidents, the motorcyclist is injured in the collision. Tragically, some riders face severe injuries such as paralysis, brain damage, and even death.
If you were injured in a motorcycle crash caused by another driver’s failure to yield, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Receive experienced legal advice by calling 212-736-5300 or by filling out the FREE consultation form today.
Collisions involving a motorcycle and passenger vehicle are common and often caused by the other driver’s failure to yield. Failure-to-yield right-of-way motorcycle accidents usually occur when:
- The driver doesn’t check their blind spot and sideswipes a motorcycle
- The driver turns in front of a motorcyclist without using turn signals
- The driver crowds the biker, causing him or her to run off the road or into oncoming traffic
In New York State, “Failure to Yield R.O.W.” was cited as the main reason in 18% of all motorcycle crashes in 2014. Considering this is for all motorcycle accidents in New York, the percentage would be even greater for multi-vehicle crashes involving a motorcycle. Usually, the at-fault driver in the collision is the car, truck, or bus driver that violated the motorcyclist’s right of way.
To prevent injuries to motorcyclists, the New York DMV driver’s manual instructs vehicle drivers to look out for motorcyclists, especially during intersections and turns. The guide specifically alerts drivers to pay attention to motorcycles especially when making a left turn.
When a motorcyclist is hurt due to another driver’s failure to yield, he or she may be able to recover financial compensation. In fatal motorcycle crashes, survivors may also be able to file a wrongful death suit against the negligent party. At Block O’Toole & Murphy, our New York personal injury lawyers are dedicated to ensuring injured riders receive the compensation they need to recover. To find out if we can help you recover compensation for your motorcycle crash, fill out our FREE case evaluation form today or call 212-736-5300.