Motorcycling continues to be popular, despite its inherent dangers. While motorists are protected by the cage of a vehicle, seatbelts, and airbags, motorcycle riders (and passengers) are exposed to the elements, other vehicles, and the road surface, increasing the risk of injury. If you or a loved one has suffered harm in a motorcycle accident, turn to The Saul Law Firm.
We have extensive experience litigating and negotiating motorcycle accident cases throughout Long Island and all New York City Boroughs. We also have comprehensive knowledge of the applicable motorcycle insurance and liability laws and an impressive track record of holding negligent and careless drivers accountable. When you work with us, we will protect your rights and fight to win you significant compensation. Contact our office today to speak with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. We have recovered millions of dollars for our motorcycle clients just like you!
Leading Causes of Motorcycle Accidents on Long Island and New York City
Motorcycle collisions involving other vehicles are usually caused by driver errors, such as:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Improper turning
- Unsafe lane changes
- Failing to yield
- Running stop signs/red lights
- Driving under the influence
- Reckless driving
Many motorcycle accidents are caused by drivers making turns or failing to yield at intersections. In addition, bad weather and poor road conditions — uneven pavement, debris, oil spills, gravel, and potholes, may be contributing factors.
Uncovering the facts and identifying the party responsible for a motorcycle collision requires a thorough investigation. That’s where our firm comes in. We regularly collaborate with accident reconstruction specialists and mechanics on motorcycle accidents and leverage their expertise to determine causation and achieve positive outcomes.
About Motorcycle Insurance and Liability Rules in New York
There are significant differences between insurance requirements and liability rules for motorcycles and cars. Under New York’s No-Fault system, motorcycles are not considered motor vehicles because they only have two wheels. Also, motorcyclists are not “covered persons,” meaning that injured motorcyclists are not eligible for no-fault coverage for medical costs and lost wages.
On the other hand, the “serious injury” provisions of the no-fault law do not apply to motorcycle riders injured in collisions with other vehicles. So an injured motorcycle rider can bring a claim against the responsible party even for minor injuries that do not reach the ”serious injury” threshold.
In addition, motorcyclists must carry the following minimum motorcycle liability insurance:
- $25,000 per person injured in any one accident
- $50,000 for the death of one person in one accident
- $50,000 for two or more persons injured in one accident
- $100,000 for the deaths of two or more persons injured in one accident.
Finally, injured motorcyclists may be entitled to uninsured (UM) or supplemental underinsured motorist (SUM) coverage, which allows motorcycle accident victims to recover damages from their own insurance company if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured.
In any event, motorcycle accident cases involve numerous challenges, not the least of which is the public bias against motorcycle enthusiasts. This makes having an experienced personal injury attorney essential. When you work with our firm, you can depend on us to handle your claim strategically, work to hold the responsible party accountable, and fight for every dollar you deserve. We have recovered millions of dollars for injured motorcyclists just like you!
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Riders and passengers may be thrown or become trapped beneath the motorcycle in an accident, resulting in injuries such as:
- Broken bones
- Road rash
- Head and neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries, e.g.paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Wrongful death
The emotional, physical, and financial impacts can be overwhelming. In addition to mounting medical bills and rehabilitative costs, some bikers may never be able to ride or work again.
How Safety Laws Protect Motorcycle Riders
New York’s motorcycle safety laws are designed to reduce the risk of injury. For example, all motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a helmet that meets federal safety standards. In addition, motorcycle operators must wear approved eye protection even if the bike has a windshield. Other recommended safety gear includes:
- Leather jackets
- Heavy pants
- Motorcycle boots
- Gloves
Motorcycles must also be equipped with safety features, including:
- Daytime running headlights and rear lights (that must be on at all times)
- At least one red rear reflector
- At least one side-view mirror
- Passenger seats
- Footrests for both the rider and the passenger
- Turn signals
- A muffler (“cutouts” or removable baffles are not permitted)
Even if all these safety requirements are in place, motorcycle accidents can still result in serious injuries that require ongoing, expensive medical care. This makes having a skilled motorcycle accident attorney essential.
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 Long Island & New York 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, Queens, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Staten Island, and Westchester County.