Motorcycle Accidents in Pennsylvania: What You Need to Know
In Pennsylvania, motorcycles are more than just a mode of transport; they are a part of the state’s soul. The thrill of hitting the open road on two wheels is hard to describe, but with great excitement comes significant risks. The Keystone State reports a staggering number each year—with hundreds experiencing severe accidents.
If you have ever been dazzled by the sound of a revving engine or felt the pulse-racing freedom that biking promises, stick around. This exploration into motorcycle safety and accident insights could be your new best friend on two wheels.
Motorcycle Accident Stats
Riders in Pennsylvania are being hit hard by rising trends in motorcycle accidents in recent years. In 2021, motorcycle fatalities climbed to an alarming 226—the highest since 2008—making motorcycles involved in almost one-fifth of all fatal crashes statewide.
What is more, on a national scale, motorcyclists faced nearly triple the number of deaths compared to back in 1997. Each statistic is not just a tally; it represents community members, making it clear why PennDOT is zeroing in on boosting motorcycle safety awareness.
Unpacking Liability
Figuring out who is at fault in a motorcycle wreck can be tricky and depends greatly on the specifics of each mishap. For instance, if a car swerves into a biker’s lane, that driver could be looking at some serious fault for not keeping an eye out.
But it is not always so straightforward—sometimes, bikers themselves might overshoot a turn or underestimate road conditions, leading to solo accidents in which they are more likely to bear the responsibility.
Then there are those pesky potholes or uncleared icy patches; if you are skidding because of poor road maintenance, a government entity could be on the hook. It could also be product failures —like when brakes fail or tires burst unexpectedly—pointing fingers towards manufacturers. In each scenario, figuring out liability is paramount since that directs where compensation claims get filed.
Steps to Take Post-Accident
Right after a motorcycle accident, the priority is always your health. Get checked out because injuries can be deceiving—some do not even show symptoms immediately. Not only is this critical for your well-being, but a clear medical record strengthens your case by directly tying injuries to the incident.
Next, snap photos of everything: skid marks, vehicle positions, and road conditions. These shots paint a vivid picture of the scene that words alone might fail to capture—they are solid proof if you find yourself in court.
Also, if there are any bystanders who saw what happened, get their details. Their accounts could corroborate yours when establishing what went down and deciding who’s at fault. This blend of quick thinking and thorough documentation could be just what tips the scales in your favor, legally speaking.
Also Read: The Essential Role of a DUI Accident Lawyer in Your Case
You May Need a Lawyer
When navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, having a knowledgeable attorney can change the game.
“Bikers often face unfortunate biases that could taint how liability is viewed. The job of your lawyers is to break through these stereotypes, presenting facts that align with your innocence rather than prejudiced assumptions,” says Pennsylvania personal injury attorney Dan Doyle of Dan Doyle Law Group.
Legal professionals especially excel in Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence laws. They meticulously construct your case to show where responsibility truly lies—even if you might have made minor mistakes, this should not necessarily sideline your claim.
Also, an adept personal injury lawyer ensures you avoid pitfalls that can undervalue your claim, especially when the stakes are high and every detail counts in tipping the scales toward justice.
