Deaths in motorcycle accidents
Motorcycles on the rise, mopeds on the decline
On January 2, 2020, the acting Minister of the Interior provided details, considered positive, regarding the reduction in traffic fatalities. While the downward trend presented could be seen as a positive sign, upon analysis, it becomes clear that the motorcycle rider group did not benefit from this improvement. During 2019, there were a total of 264 fatalities, representing a 21.7% increase compared to the previous year.
The report highlighted another peculiarity regarding this mode of transport: in the case of mopeds , the data reflected a downward trend, specifically a 63.3% decrease in the number of fatalities. These different trends lead law firms like ours to consider a more in-depth analysis of the reasons for these differences in order to better advise our clients on potential claims and compensation . One of the first pieces of data studied was the causes of these deaths, and in our analysis, we noted that the failure to wear a helmet accounted for 17 of them. However, upon comparison with previous years, it was found that there had been no change in this factor.
What are the possible causes of the uptick?
We are now in a pandemic situation that has brought about major changes in mobility. If we consider that the Catalan Traffic Service estimates a reduction of around 6%, why has there been an increase? Why are 13 of the 29 fatalities so far in 2021 drivers or passengers on motorcycles?
As specialized lawyers, we are evaluating different possibilities. The director of the Catalan Traffic Service, Juli Gendrau, acknowledged that "the numbers are alarming," and that accidents involving two-wheeled vehicles have skyrocketed, a possible explanation being the increased use of these vehicles despite the overall decrease in mobility. However, it should be noted that this increase is not associated with long journeys but rather with the use of small-displacement motorcycles , which do not require a specific license, but only a basic driver's license.
The responsibility of the barriers in New Jersey
It is interesting to note that the head of Barcelona's Court of Instruction number 13 has opened an investigation into the installation of the infamous Jersey barriers following the death of a motorcyclist. Can lawyers claim compensation from the Barcelona City Council for its responsibility in the incident? Are there any safety studies that justify their installation? In this case, it should be mentioned that the lawyers representing the victim have decided to file a lawsuit against the City Council and are reserving the right to pursue other legal actions, not only seeking compensation , such as a charge of manslaughter.
The importance of having specialized lawyers
As we've seen in this post, the causes of traffic accidents, with or without injuries, are varied. Each accident is different, and each mode of transport is subject to its own specific circumstances. Therefore, in cases involving a motorcycle accident, it's always essential to seek advice from specialized lawyers —professionals who dedicate their time to defending the interests of victims and ensuring they receive the compensation and claims to which they are entitled. In most cases, these lawyers will not charge anything, neither for the initial consultations nor for processing the case until a favorable resolution. Seeking a free consultation is the best course of action in these situations.