A significant number of motorcycle accidents are the result of defective motorcycle equipment. In far too many cases, a police report will put the blame for an accident on the motorcyclist rather than a defectively designed or manufactured motorcycle. Some of the most common types of defective motorcycle claims involve:
- Brake failure caused by defective brakes
- Tire blowouts resulting from defective tires
- Stuck throttles
- Failure of the motorcycle chain
- A motorcycle which is improperly assembled
- Defective pedals, toe clips or shock absorbers
- Engine problems
- Clutch failure
- Faulty wiring
- Defective motorcycle helmets
The Harley Speed Wobble
Another serious cause of motorcycle accidents is known as “speed wobble,” “death wobble,” or the “Harley wobble.” While the name may sound somewhat silly, the resulting injuries are not. Speed wobble is most commonly found in Harley Davidson motorcycles, and can result in the rider losing control in an instant. High rates of speed as well as sharp turns can bring on the speed wobble, although the phenomenon is attributed to a specific manufacturing defect in how the engine attaches to the frame. Motorcyclists who have experienced speed wobble say it is akin to a shake or sway, and can result in serious injuries or fatalities. Design engineers believe the frame of the Harley Davidson is unable to handle the level of torque from the engine. While lawsuits have been filed against Harley Davidson, the company has yet to make the necessary design changes to lessen the effects of speed wobble.
Defective Motorcycle Helmets
When a motorcycle helmet fails to do its job, the results can be truly catastrophic, leading serious head and brain injuries. Unfortunately, defective helmets can actually contribute to serious injury or death should an accident occur. The Consumer Product & Safety Commission is responsible for testing helmets and setting safety standards and will order a recall when helmets fail to meet current standards. Even so, defective helmets continue showing up on the market. Those who are injured by a defective helmet will likely allege manufacturing or design defects prevented the helmet from performing, as it should in conformance with national standards.
Recalled or Not?
If you have been injured by defective motorcycle equipment, which was recalled by the manufacturer, you have a much easier case to prove. A recall signifies that the manufacturer admitted a defect and did their best to notify every motorcycle owner who could potentially be affected by the recall. Many manufacturers simply put a press release on their site and call it good, meaning potentially thousands of consumers have no idea they are riding a motorcycle with recalled equipment. If no recall has been issued, then it is your responsibility to prove the motorcycle equipment item is clearly flawed.
Contact Pueblo Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
The severity of injuries received in a Pueblo motorcycle accident demands that victims exercise their full rights under the law to recover compensation for medical expenses, therapy bills, lost wages, and damages. Any Colorado rider that has been involved in a motorcycle crash is advised to seek counsel immediately.
If you have been injured in a Pueblo, Colorado motorcycle crash, attorney Smith & Smith can help. Call Pueblo attorneys at Smith & Smith, today for a FREE CONSULTATION – (719) 544-0062.
