The story of a group of motorcyclists and an attack on an SUV driver in New York has been riveting the nation since late September.
This was an isolated tragic incident that does not reflect the behavior of most motorcycle clubs, but it does bring to light that motorcycle club members do travel closely together, leaving them vulnerable to multiple vehicle accidents if one goes down.
Motorcycle clubs have been around since the early 1900’s and are mostly made up of groups of men and women who share a passion for riding. The majority of these clubs are peaceful organizations with elected officers and annual dues. They may serve a specific brand and sponsor events where members can get together and socialize. In fact, most motorcycle clubs are philanthropic, offering financial support to numerous well known charities and causes. A far cry from the stereotype created by the 1953 Marlon Brando movie “The Wild One”.
The Domino Effect
When a group of these motorcycle enthusiasts get together for a ride they drive in a side by side formation, and follow one another closely. On the open highway, with the wind in their faces, they may not be thinking about the possible risk if one of them goes down. This “follow the leader” method of driving has led to many motorcycle accidents and injuries. Who can forget the 2009 motorcycle accident in Oregon that took down nearly 30 bikes? The leaders of the formation avoided colliding with an SUV that had braked suddenly, but those behind did not, causing a domino effect of falling motorcycles. It is difficult in this type of situation to find fault with one driver. If you have been injured in a multi-motorcycle accident, consult with a Missouri motorcycle accident attorney. Re-creating the scene and events leading up to your fall will help determine liability and may get you your deserved compensation.
Whose Fault Was It?
During a charity event, a woman was thrown off the back of her husband’s motorcycle when he was forced to drive into a ditch. The lead motorcycle had lost control of his bike and those following had to maneuver quickly in order to avoid colliding with him. The woman seriously injured her shoulder and suffered disability that caused her to have to stop working. The lead driver’s insurance company fought against paying the policy limit, despite evidence that her medical bills were substantially higher. Just before the claim was to go to trial, the insurance company realized it was acting in bad faith and settled with the plaintiff for close to $700,000 dollars. Don’t be reluctant to ask for compensation from a fellow club member if you are injured. It is their insurance company that is ultimately going to pay, not them. The only consequence to your friend will be an increase in premium, which will happen anyway if the accident was reported.
Missouri Motorcycle Accident Attorney
The New York tragedy is not at all typical of motorcycle clubs, yet it does show how the club rider mentality can lead to injury. In order to stay safe, riders should not focus on the bike directly in front of them, but rather drive as if they are alone on the road. Look past the lead rider to anticipate any sudden slowing down or stops. If you do get into an accident re-create the scene with an expert Missouri motorcycle accident attorney to ascertain if compensation is applicable in your case.
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Photo credit: Switzerland County (IN) Tourism
