Are Rykers Safer Than Motorcycles?
Some vehicles are safer than others. So, are Rykers safer than motorcycles? Or do they present the same kinds of dangers to riders?
Can-Am Rykers are a type of three-wheeled motorcycle, also known as tricycles. While they are generally more stable than motorcycles, Rykers are not much safer. They are still smaller than passenger cars. They do not have seat belts or airbags to prevent injuries to operators. Ryker operators are at risk of sustaining the same injuries as victims of motorcycle accidents, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and lacerations, among others. Because of this, you should take care when operating your Ryker, just as you would when riding a motorcycle. If you were hurt in a Ryker accident, you can likely sue the negligent party for compensatory damages.
To get a free assessment of your case from Atlantic City motorcycle accident lawyer Jerry Friedman, call 1-800-529-4464 now.
Are Rykers Much Safer Than Motorcycles?
Can-Am Rykers are tricycles, essentially motorcycles with a third wheel in the back. The question is whether or not this added feature makes Rykers safer than motorcycles.
Rykers and other trikes are balanced because of the additional wheel. This means that riders do not have to worry so much about balancing their vehicles while operating them. This differs from motorcycles, which require considerable experience to keep upright when riding.
Because Rykers and other trikes are generally larger than most motorcycles, other drivers on the road might be more likely to see them sooner, avoiding a collision. A top cause of motorcycle accidents is negligent drivers failing to see the smaller vehicles on the road.
While certain features of Can-Am Rykers make them somewhat safer than motorcycles, there are others that solidify the fact that trikes are inherently dangerous. For example, like motorcycles, Rykers do not have seat belts to keep riders on their bikes during an accident. Furthermore, like motorcyclists, trike riders are exposed, meaning they are not as protected from impact as car drivers and passengers are.
All that is to say, purchasing and riding a tricycle rather than a motorcycle does not mean you will be made immune to accidents. Can-Am Rykers are still dangerous, and operators should take care when riding them. Make sure you get the proper training and license or license endorsement to operate a Ryker or other tricycle in your state.
Safety Considerations for Ryker and Motorcycle Riders
Because both Rykers and motorcycles are dangerous vehicles, and because riders face the risk of serious injury if struck by a negligent driver, there are certain safety considerations one should take before setting out on a ride.
First, wear a helmet. Depending on your state, doing so might be a legal requirement. For example, all motorcycle riders, including trike riders, must wear helmets in New Jersey. Such gear can protect your head from serious injury in the event of a crash. In addition to a helmet, you should also wear protective eye gear if your Ryker does not have a windscreen, as well as protective shoes, pants, and a jacket. This can help ward against minor injuries, such as lacerations and contusions.
Even though Rykers are larger than most motorcycles, they are smaller than most passenger cars and trucks. Because of this, you should make sure to use your headlights when riding at night and be careful when entering intersections or making turns. Anxious drivers more easily ignore smaller vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents. Take extra care when riding at night, in bad weather, or on unpaved roads. Because of their small size, Rykers might be more likely to hydroplane in poor weather.
Many states, like New Jersey, for example, classify tricycles as a type of motorcycle, meaning that all safety regulations that apply to motorcycles apply to Rykers. For example, you have to wear a helmet when operating your Ryker. You must also get it titled, registered, and insured. You can do so in the same manner you would a motorcycle.
Physical, Financial, and Emotional Dangers of Ryker and Motorcycle Accidents
Although Rykers might not be as dangerous as motorcycles regarding certain things, that does not mean that victims are immune from sustaining serious injuries in tricycle accidents.
Suppose you were hit by a car while riding your trike. In that case, you might sustain any number of injuries, including but not limited to broken bones, internal injuries, whiplash, crushing injuries, amputation, head injuries, back injuries, spinal cord injuries, and more. Victims might require emergency surgeries or expensive testing and treatment.
The likelihood of severe injury increases when victims are thrown from their Rykers or pinned beneath their vehicles. T-bone accidents and those that occur at high speeds might be the most disastrous for tricycle or motorcycle riders.
The financial impact of these types of collisions can be life-altering for victims. Long-term medical treatment, like physical therapy, is often necessary, as is more immediate care, like emergency surgeries. These costs often add up, leading to thousands of dollars in medical expenses. Serious injuries could also make you unable to work, resulting in lost wages.
Fortunately, these costs can be compensated when you file a lawsuit. Victims typically only have a few years or so to do this, depending on where they live. If you were hurt while riding your Ryker, our Camden, NJ motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue recovery against the at-fault party. It will be important to gather evidence that establishes negligence immediately so that you can bring your claim well before the final deadline to sue.
While Rykers accidents can put victims in danger of sustaining physical injuries, they also can put them at risk of experiencing pain and suffering. Most likely, such costs will be compensable in your lawsuit as well.
Call Jerry to Discuss Your Ryker Accident Today
Call our Egg Harbor, NJ motorcycle accident lawyer Jerry Friedman at 1-800-529-4464 for a free case analysis.
