Motorcycling continues to be popular across Long Island and New York City, despite the risks. Unlike motorists who are protected by seatbelts and airbags, motorcyclists are fully exposed to the road, other vehicles, and harsh weather. This makes accidents more likely to cause severe or even life-altering injuries.
At The Saul Law Firm, LLP, we have decades of experience litigating and negotiating motorcycle accident cases. We understand New York’s unique motorcycle insurance and liability rules, and we’ve recovered millions for injured riders and their families. When you call us, you’ll speak directly with attorneys who care, and you won’t pay us a cent unless we win your case.
Leading Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Garden City
Most motorcycle collisions happen because of driver error. The most common causes include:
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, or phone use)
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Improper turns or unsafe lane changes
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Other contributing factors include bad weather (rain, snow, ice) and poor road conditions such as potholes, loose gravel, oil spills, or debris.
Our firm conducts thorough investigations, often working with accident reconstruction experts and mechanics, to uncover exactly what caused your crash.
How Does Motorcycle Insurance Work in New York?
Motorcycle insurance in New York is very different from car insurance.
- No-Fault does not apply: Motorcyclists are not considered “covered persons” under New York’s no-fault system. This means you cannot get automatic medical or wage benefits from your own insurer.
- No “serious injury” threshold: Riders can sue an at-fault driver even for injuries that don’t meet the serious injury standard required in car cases.
- Minimum liability coverage required:
- $25,000 for injury to one person
- $50,000 for death of one person
- $50,000 for injuries to two or more persons
- $100,000 for deaths of two or more persons
Motorcyclists may also be entitled to uninsured (UM) or underinsured (SUM) coverage, which allows recovery from your own insurer if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured.
Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle riders and passengers often suffer catastrophic injuries, including:
- Broken bones and severe road rash
- Head and neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries (including paralysis)
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Back injuries
- Wrongful death
These injuries often mean long hospital stays, costly rehabilitation, and in some cases, permanent disability. Many riders never return to work or the lifestyle they once enjoyed.y never be able to ride or work again.
How Do New York Motorcycle Safety Laws Protect Riders?
New York requires several safety measures to reduce accident risks:
- Helmet law: All riders and passengers must wear DOT-approved helmets.
- Eye protection: Riders must wear approved eyewear, even with a windshield.
- Protective gear: Leather jackets, heavy pants, boots, and gloves are strongly recommended.
Motorcycles must also be equipped with:
- Daytime headlights and rear lights
- At least one red rear reflector
- Side-view mirror(s)
- Passenger seats and footrests
- Turn signals
- Muffler (no cutouts or removable baffles)
Even with these protections, serious motorcycle crashes still occur — which is why having an experienced attorney is critical.
How The Saul Law Firm Can Help
Our legal team will thoroughly investigate your motorcycle accident, hold the responsible party accountable, and fight to win you substantial compensation. Although no two injury cases are the same, you may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages, such as:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitative costs
- Lost wages – present and future
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability/disfigurement
- Replacement services
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
No amount of money can undo the harm you have endured, but you deserve just compensation to help you recover and secure your financial future.
Talk To An Experienced Garden City Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you have suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident, let our attorneys help you navigate the long road to recovery. We offer free consultations and charge no attorneys’ fees until we win compensation for you. Contact us today to set up an appointment.
The Saul Law Firm, LLP helps clients with motorcycle accident matters throughout Nassau County, Suffolk County, Garden City, Queens, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Staten Island, and Westchester County.