Motorcycle Accidents in Philadelphia as Summer Draws to a Close
The past few weeks have seen numerous motorcycle accidents on the streets of Philadelphia, many of which have been fatal for the motorcyclist. In one accident, the driver of a car was pulling out of a parking lot and collided with a motorcycle, killing the motorcyclist. On September 5, another motorcyclist was killed in a three-vehicle crash in northeast Philly. And in the last motorcycle accident we’ll mention—also on September 5—a Wilmington woman turned left into oncoming traffic and collided with a motorcyclist on Philadelphia Pike. The motorcyclist was traveling southbound near Holly Oak Road when the woman turned directly in front of him. The motorcyclist was taken to the hospital in serious condition, and the woman was cited for turning left instead of yielding.
Why do Motorcycle Accidents Happen in Philadelphia
One reason motorcycle crashes are common in Philadelphia is that there are a lot of motorcyclists on the road. In fact, Pennsylvania is among the top five states in the country for most registered motorcycles, so motorcycles are going to be involved in motor vehicle accidents more frequently here than elsewhere, simply based on the numbers. According to the most recent data, these accidents result in approximately 3,000 Pennsylvania motorcyclists sustaining injuries during a calendar year, and about 200 riders killed. But, of course, motorcycle accidents arise due to circumstances other than number of motorcycles, namely inattentive, dangerous driving, such as:
- Car drivers failing to check blind spots or signal when changing lanes
- Drivers opening car doors in the path of an oncoming motorcycle
- Speeding, causing decreased reaction time and greater impact
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Following a motorcyclist too closely to avoid a sudden stop
- Car drivers making unsafe turns at intersections and when entering or exiting driveways and parking lots
- Talking on cell phones and texting
Why They are so Tragic
Motorcycle accidents are often tragic because motorcyclists don’t have the protection car drivers do. Plus, Pennsylvania law doesn’t require motorcyclists to wear helmets if they’re over the age of 21 and have either two years of riding experience or have completed a motorcycle safety course. In many motorcycle accidents, the motorcyclist is killed, while the car driver doesn’t even suffer a scratch. Extra safety precautions often outweigh the fatal outcomes of a motorcycle crash.
Talk to an Experienced Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, please contact Benedum Law in Chestnut Hill for a free consultation. Available to assist anyone in the Greater Philadelphia area, we’re available nights and weekends, and have the ability to travel to your location.
