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Since the advent of smartphones and other types of portable technology, distracted driving has become a bigger problem than ever. In fact, distracted driving is one of the top causes of auto accidents in the United States. Unfortunately, distracted driving can have serious consequences for motorcyclists. Motorcycle riders who are involved in distracted driving accidents often suffer catastrophic injuries or death. In this article, we examine the impact of distracted driving on motorcycle accidents in NYC.
Types of Distracted Driving
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified three primary types of distractions that drivers face, any of which can cause serious motorcycle accidents:
Visual distractions: A visual distraction is anything that averts a driver’s eyes from the road. This type of distraction is what most people typically think of when hearing the term “distracted driving.” Common types of visual distractions include:
- Using a smartphone to surf the internet, read texts, or use social media
- Using a GPS system
- Looking at passengers
- Rubbernecking
Manual distractions: A manual distraction is any distraction that takes a driver’s hands off the wheel. Common manual distractions include:
- Adjusting the seatbelt
- Reaching for a drink or food
- Using an electronic device
Cognitive distractions:
Finally, cognitive distractions divert a driver’s concentration from the task of driving. Examples of cognitive distractions include daydreaming and nodding off.
How Distracted Driving Causes Motorcycle Accidents
To put it simply, anything that takes a driver’s attention from the road can cause a motorcycle accident. And, as noted above, collisions between motorcycles and cars rarely end up well for motorcyclists. A distracted driver may cause a motorcycle accident when he or she:
- Turns without seeing the person on the motorcycle
- Veers into the motorcycle rider’s lane and sideswipes the bike
- Fails to anticipate a motorcyclist’s quick maneuvers
- Rear-ends a motorcyclist who is stopped at a stop sign or traffic light
- Fails to see a motorcyclist in his or her blind spot
How an Attorney Can Help After a Motorcycle Accident
As noted above, there are various factors that can cause distracted driving accidents. Following a motorcycle accident caused by distracted driving, an experienced personal injury attorney will investigate the facts of the case and formulate a strategy to help recover financial compensation for medical bills and treatment, property damage, pain and suffering, and other expenses related to the accident. Therefore, if you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident that was caused by distracted driving, you should contact an experienced Long Island personal injury lawyer as soon as possible for assistance.
Contact a Long Island Personal Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident in New York, Dell & Dean, PLLC, is here for you. When you come to us for help with your New York motorcycle accident case, we will investigate your situation, devise a legal strategy, and aggressively seek financial compensation on your behalf. Please contact us to arrange a consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer.
