Dawn Pinnisi
October 5, 2022
Riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience. You may even search for a riding buddy who shares your love for the open road.
Although being part of a motorcycle group (commonly referred to as a “motorcycle club”) is a great social activity, it comes with risks. If you have sustained injuries in a motorcycle crash, you need a motorcycle accident lawyer to review your case.
Factors to Consider in Group Riding
There are plenty of motorcycle clubs in New Jersey that you can join. Some welcome all riders, and some are exclusive depending on your profession or may have a certain cause in which they are trying to raise awareness. The list of different club events goes on and on. Being an active member of a motorcycle club can be a great way for riders to bond, do something they love.
However, riding in a group comes with inherent risks. Even one single rider swerving or braking without notice can cause a chain reaction accident.
Before a motorcycle club rides together, a few important items should be discussed. Most importantly, the group should name a leader and determine how the speed of the group will be moderated. Depending on the road and traffic conditions, the group can decide if they are going to ride staggered, side-by-side, or single file. This will ensure everyone’s safety before they begin their ride.
Common Motorcycle Injuries
Motorcyclists are more prone to be injured in an accident since there is no barrier between their bike and the pavement.
Riders can sustain a number of injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Seizures
- Paralysis
- Lower extremity injuries (commonly injuries to the tibia or fibula)
- Lacerations
Especially while riding in a motorcycle group, the dangers of injuries increase significantly. For example, if there are riders leading the group and they brake for debris, an accident can occur if the riders behind them are following too closely. Additionally, in a side-by-side formation, if one rider takes a curve too wide, that rider may run the motorcyclist beside them off the road.
Liability for Motorcycle Injuries and Fatalities
Deciding who is responsible for an accident depends on the circumstances behind the collision. If an insurance company or court (in the occurrence of a lawsuit) determines that a party was behaving negligently, they will be found liable.
There are various situations that can cause injuries to a motorcycle group. If a driver fails to yield or give the group their right-of-way, then the driver would be found liable.
Although rare, in a small percentage of accidents, vehicular failure causes motorcycle crashes. Vehicular failure can cause the motorcycle to lose control and most likely hit a fixed object. In this situation, the manufacturer would be found liable for the accident.
Contact an NJ Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents and injuries are all too common. Since motorcycle riding is more dangerous than driving a car, group riding puts everyone at even more risk. If you have been injured in a motorcycle club event, you need the attorneys at Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C., to represent your interests. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
Dawn M. Pinnisi
Dawn M. Pinnisi is a distinguished attorney with a track record of excellence in advocating for victims of injury and negligence. Dawn is a Founding Partner of the Firm, a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and has been awarded by the National Trial Lawyers.
University: J.D. Brooklyn Law School
Bar Number: 33771999
Locations: New Jersey and New York.
Let Us Fight For You
Need Help? Contact us 24/7
Free Consultation (800) 616-2916New York & New Jersey Personal Injury & Litigation Lawyers