According to state statistics, there are 14,503 registered motorcyclists in Ulster County, NY, and in 2024, police-reported statistics report that 64 of them were injured in motorcycle crashes, and 5 tragically lost their lives in crashes. In this blog post, we’re going to dive deeper into what’s actually causing these crashes, and discuss how motorcyclists can protect themselves from crashes.
If you’ve gotten into a crash near Kingston, Ulster, the Town of Wawarsing, or Esopus, our personal injury law firm is here to help.
The most important thing to know that is that most motorcyclists are not covered under New York’s “no-fault” laws; meaning that your personal motorcycle insurance does not have an obligation to pay for your lost wages, medical bills and other expenses. Therefore, the most likely way a motorcyclist can be reimbursed for their losses is to bring a lawsuit against the responsible person or company, and their insurance company.
Time is of the essence; if you were injured in a crash due to the negligence of another party, schedule a free motorcycle personal injury consultation in Kingston, NY office.
1. Unsafe Speed – 27 crashes
20 Ulster County motorcycle crash injuries were caused by unsafe speeds in 2024.
To mitigate your risk, follow speed limits at all times, and go below the speed limit when conditions are wet, slippery, in construction zones, or in high-traffic areas. Always maintain at least a two to four second gap from vehicles ahead, and use progressive braking by applying the brakes smoothly rather than slamming them.
2. Passing/Lane Changing/Improper Use – 13 crashes
11 motorcycle crash injuries in Ulster County were caused by “Passing/Lane Changing/Improper Use” in 2024; two fatalities also resulted.
The key to reducing your risk is to check your blind spots thoroughly; in addition to using mirrors, always do a head check before changing lanes. Be sure to made predictable lane changes, and avoid swerving between lanes.
3. Failure to Yield Right-of-Way – 13 crashes
In 2024, 13 motorcycle crash injuries in Ulster County were caused by Failure to Yield Right-of-Way; 1 fatality also occurred.
The best thing to do is to increase your visibility with high-visibility jackets, helmets and reflective strips, and use your headlights during the day. Use your horn when necessary, if a driver looks like they’re about to cut you off.
4. Turning Improperly – 9 crashes
9 personal injuries and zero fatalities occurred in Ulster County motorcycle crashes in 2024 resulting from improper turning.
Reduce speeds before entering your turns, and look where you want to go. Lean with your bike; your body should stay aligned with your motorcycle.
5. Animal’s Action – 7 crashes
In Ulster County in 2024, six injuries and one motorcyclist fatality were caused by animal’s action.
Watch out for deer crossing signs, and slow down in those areas. With small and large animals, do not swerve sharply; this can cause you to lose control and veer into traffic. Grip the handlebars firmly and try to stay upright. Flashing your highbeams and using your horn can also help.
6. Driver Inattention/Distraction – 7 crashes
In 2024, seven personal injuries were suffered by motorcyclists due to driver inattention and distraction.
Assume drivers don’t see you by riding defensively, avoiding blind spots, and make eye contact when possible. If you see a car drifting, braking late, or reacting slowly, you can also assume the driver is distracted.
7. Following Too Closely – 5 crashes
Five motorcycle personal injuries were suffered by motorcyclists due to either themselves or a driver following too closely.
Maintaining the two-four second distance following rule is key; pick a fixed object, like a sign or pole, to help you measure out how closely you’re following. React early instead of waiting until the last moment.