Motorcycle Equipment And Part Defects - How They Cause Serious Accidents

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration states that motorcycle riders are 35 times more likely to die in an auto accident than a car or truck driver. Obviously this is due to the fact that they do not have the protective steel framing around their bodies that automobiles provide.

While motorcycles must also face crashworthiness analysis in the same way that all other vehicles do, these tests are just as likely to fail to indicate what might happen in the event of defects or parts failures.

For example, a modern bike manufacturer might implement all kinds of safety designs in the frame and systems of the bike, but broken or cracked wheels can lead to a major accident.

The most common defects known for causing accidents include problems with fuel systems (usually when a throttle sticks and causes rapid acceleration or deceleration), handlebar flaws, broken and cracked wheels, failures with the braking system, defects in seat design, and substandard safety gear (such as a poorly made helmet).

Just as all cars and trucks face recalls when the NHTSA detects such problems or defects, so too do motorcycles. Any seller or manufacturer who fails to address these issues before allowing a buyer to ride off on a bike is liable for the injuries sustained by an accident resulting from the defects. Additionally, the makers of the parts that failed or were problematic are also liable for the damages sustained. For example, if the rider wore a helmet that failed during an impact or collision, the manufacturer could be held accountable for the injury of the rider (or their surviving family members).

If you are injured, or if you lose a family member to a motorcycle accident in which defects were a contributing factor, it is a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney right away. Product liability and personal injury issues can often allow someone to be compensated for their physical and emotional damages.