A motorcyclist is dead after colliding with a vehicle in Brick Township. The Brick Township Police Department responded to the reported crash, which occurred at approximately 2:45 p.m. last weekend at the intersection of Burnt Tavern Road and Spiral Drive.
Christos Michael, 59, of Mount Pleasant, riding a 2003 Bourget Custom motorcycle, was traveling south on Burnt Tavern Road. Robin Federbush, 49, driving a 2013 Hyundai Elantra, was turning left from Spiral Drive onto Burnt Tavern Road northbound. Michael crashed into the left front side of the car as Federbush entered the intersection. Michael had the right of way.
The impact threw Michael from the motorcycle, causing lower body and internal injuries. He died at the scene. The accident remains under investigation.
The increased risk motorcyclists face
Although motorcycles are thrilling to ride and motorcyclists enjoy the freedom of taking them out on the open road, statistically they are at much higher risk of serious injury or death in a collision with another vehicle. In multiple vehicle accidents, motorcyclists are injured 98% of the time, and in 45% of those cases, the injuries were more than minor.
Motorcycle accidents also occur most often at intersections, and two-thirds of multi-vehicle accidents are caused when the other driver violates the cyclist’s right-of-way. The main cause of a majority of collisions is a motorist’s failure to see the motorcycle, either right before the crash or when it is too late to make evasive moves to avoid the collision.
Seeking compensation after a serious accident
For victims of preventable motorcycle accidents and their loved ones, coping with the aftermath can be emotionally and financially draining. Dealing with insurance companies that are delaying settlements or trying to lowball estimates is exhausting and frustrating. If the accident was caused by the negligence of another driver, it may be possible to file a claim.
New Jersey is a contributory negligence state, which means that in order to recover damages the plaintiff must prove that they were less at fault for causing the accident than the other party. It is wise to seek experienced legal counsel that will work on your behalf to recover compensation if you or a loved one has been involved in a serious accident.