The family of a teenager killed in a motorcycle accident earlier this year has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Staten Island, New York, claiming that the deadly wreck was caused by hazardous road conditions, which caused another vehicle to swerve into the teen’s lane to avoid potholes. The motorcycle accident took place on April 5, when another vehicle allegedly swerved in order to avoid potholes on School Road in Staten Island, and struck 19-year-old Kadem Mitchell’s motorcycle, resulting in his death. If you have been injured in a Georgia motorcycle accident, or if you lost a loved one in a fatal motorcycle wreck in GA, contact our knowledgeable attorneys at Rechtman & Spevak to discuss your legal options.
City Allegedly Failed to Maintain Roadway
According to the Mitchell family’s wrongful death claim, after colliding with the other vehicle, Mitchell was thrown from the motorcycle and into oncoming traffic, where he was struck by an SUV. He reportedly sustained devastating injuries in the motorcycle accident, which eventually led to his death on April 11. In the lawsuit, Mitchell’s family names the city, the driver of the vehicle that changed lanes, and the driver of the SUV as defendants. According to their claims, the Mitchell’s death occurred because of the negligence of the other drivers, and because the city failed to properly maintain the roadway on which the motorcycle accident occurred.
Dangerous Road Conditions Leading to Wrecks
It was confirmed by local media that School Road, where the motorcycle accident took place, had numerous potholes, some of which were filled after the deadly accident, and some of which were not. However, the Staten Island Police Department allegedly has a different story regarding the cause of the crash, suggesting that Mitchell may have tried to pass the other vehicle on the left, after the vehicle changed lanes, resulting in the collision. If the Mitchell family’s claims of hazardous road conditions are accurate, the wrongful death claim joins a growing number of lawsuits filed over fatal motor vehicle accidents caused by dangerous roadways.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for Help
Due to their design and small profile, motorcycles are inherently vulnerable, especially on roadways with potholes and other dangers that pose a serious risk for motorcycle riders. If you have suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident in Atlanta, Marietta, or elsewhere in Georgia, that you believe was caused by poor road design or lack of proper maintenance, consult our reputable lawyers at Rechtman & Spevak today. With our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys on your side, you can protect your legal rights and pursue financial compensation for your motorcycle accident injuries, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.