By Steve Kantor
Some of us believe that our voice matters and some of us believe you cannot fight City Hall. I subscribe to the former as opposed to the latter. In my over 32-years of lawyering, I have seen both legislation as well as litigation lead to positive safety reforms. As a plaintiff’s personal injury lawyer, I proudly embrace the title of safety advocate. Plaintiff’s lawyers are corporate Americas policemen. When safety is compromised, we are the ones who raise our voice which ultimately leads to reforms. But reform cannot be achieved without your help.
The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) and the American Bikers Aimed Towards Education (ABATE) are both motorcycle rights organizations that bring attention to issues effecting motorcyclists. During 2022, the AMA’s Government Relations Department as well as ABATE helped to lobby many issues effecting riders across the country.
This includes issues regarding distracted driving, autonomous vehicles, lane filtering, and motorcycling profiling. These are all issues which we should be concerned about. Although change may be slow in coming, it does come. State legislative tracking by the numbers indicates that 817 on-highway bills were followed by the AMA, and 137 of those became law.
ABATE of New York has been prominent in its lobbying for the Credo-Kade’s Law which The Kantor Law Firm supported with your help through the “Look Before You Left Campaign”. Additionally, ABATE has also been involved with raising awareness regarding the S.L.E.E.P. Act.
Recently, Governor Hochul signed into law mandatory supplemental spousal liability insurance. Previously, your spouse as a passenger was not automatically covered. This is one example of what lobbying for change can do. As always, please contact us with any questions regarding your coverages.
If you are not a member of the American Motorcyclist Association, I urge you to join at http://americanmotorcyclist.com Promoting motorcyclist safety awareness and education since 1974, ABATE of New York can be contacted at www.AbateNY.org
The Kantor Law Firm has explored many of the scenic highways around Western New York. Unfortunately, our busy schedule often does not allow us time for more leisurely trips. 2023 is the exception as we will be heading out to Laconia for the very first time in celebration of Laconia’s 100th Anniversary. If you are going to Laconia, let us know. If you have previously been to Laconia and have suggestions as to what rides or events you recommend, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]
We look forward to seeing you on the road in 2023. If you or your family have any legal needs, please do not hesitate to contact us. Trust our experience, we get results.
Ride Safe!
Stay safe, and stay informed.
