Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Serving NYC, the Bronx, & Long Island
While only 2% of the registered vehicles in New York City are motorcycles, motorcyclists make up almost 14% of automobile fatalities in the five boroughs. In any motorcycle accident, a simple collision can lead to serious injuries and leave victims fighting against stubborn insurance companies to receive fair settlements.
At Leav & Steinberg LLP, our motorcycle accident attorneys are familiar with the relevant laws and statutes for motorcycle crashes in New York. You can trust our knowledgeable and dedicated legal team to support you in filing a strong claim and advocating for the right settlement for your case.
Motorcycle Accidents in New York
From the heart of New York City to the Bronx and Long Island, NY state’s most bustling boroughs are no stranger to the impact of motorcycle accidents.
Frequent causes of motorcycle accidents
Because motorcycles are lighter, smaller, and lower to the ground than most vehicles, it can be incredibly difficult for other drivers on the road to see them, particularly at night, on foggy days, and in the rain.
In fact, a 2017 study found that drivers were twice as likely to not see a motorcycle than a sedan. This potential lack of visibility results in dangerous situations that put motorcyclists at greater risk for automobile accidents, severe injuries, and traffic fatalities.
Aside from vehicle size, other common threats causing motorcycle accidents include:
- Potholes and other infrastructural issues
- Inclement weather conditions
- Speeding and distracted driving
- Improper lane switching
- Driving under the influence
- Mechanical problems
Any time you take on the open road in NYC, the Bronx, or Long Island, it’s important to practice motorcycle safety to reduce your risk of serious injury to your person and property.
Common motorcycle accident injuries
Just like the increased risk of collisions, motorcycle accident victims are also more susceptible to harsher injuries than other automobile drivers because their vehicles offer less protection. With only two wheels and no airbags, motorcycles leave their drivers more exposed to the impact of an auto accident and more likely to face outcomes like:
- Painful bruises
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken or fractured bones
- Road rashes
- Burns
Whether it’s a leg bruise or a third-degree burn, any pain or suffering arising from your motorcycle wreck may warrant a personal injury claim that helps you recover maximum compensation for your struggles.
Is Your Motorcycle Crash Grounds for a Case?
Knowing when to bring about a motorcycle accident case is tricky, especially if you’re trying to do it yourself.
Because the state’s insurance and liability laws differ for motorcycles and cars, victims of a motorcycle collision should consider hiring experienced motorcycle accident attorneys representing New York City, the Bronx, and Long Island. Motorcycles are not covered under New York’s no-fault laws, meaning that the rider may not be entitled to benefits for their medical expenses and lost wages unless they can demonstrate that the other driver was at fault for the accident.
However, motorcyclists don’t have to prove that their injuries meet the serious injury requirement of Section 5102 of the Insurance Law. An injured motorcyclist can bring forth a claim against an at-fault driver’s insurance company and seek financial compensation for minor injuries that would not normally meet New York’s no-fault threshold.
For help in determining your eligibility, a personal injury attorney at Leav & Steinberg LLP will work to evaluate the severity of your accident and all the injuries sustained. To ensure the best results, we recommend requesting a free case evaluation as soon as possible following your accident.
Know Your Motorcycle Laws
Motorcycle safety starts with knowing the laws that apply to New York City, the Bronx, and Long Island:
- All motorcycle riders are required to wear a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmet while riding
- It is illegal to lane split (riding between the lanes of cars)
- It is illegal to operate a motorcycle without a valid driver’s license
- A Class M motorcycle license is required to legally operate a motorcycle
- It is illegal to drive while impaired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Every motorcycle must be registered and licensed by the state
- Passengers are required to have their own seats and footrests
- Headlights must be turned on at all times when riding. Daytime headlights must be turned on from one-half hour before sunset to one-half hour after sunrise
- Tail and brake lights are mandatory at all times
- The maximum allowable noise level for motorcycle engines is 95 dB
- A separate license plate must be displayed on the back of the motorcycle
- No passengers are allowed on a motorcycle until the rider has held a valid license for at least one year
- Mirrors are mandatory on both the left and right sides of the motorcycle
New York Motorcycle Accident FAQ
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle crash?
After a motorcycle wreck, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. Amidst the adrenaline and high nerves, you may have minor or major injuries and not even realize it — but delaying medical care can lead to more serious problems.
Aside from receiving a medical examination, you’ll also need to:
- File an accident report
- Get contact information from any other involved parties
- Take pictures of the accident scene and locate any potential witnesses
- Contact local personal injury law firms to find one that best protects your rights
How long do victims have to file motorcycle accident claims in New York?
In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is three years. Despite the 36-month time cushion, it’s important to begin the claims process with a New York motorcycle accident law firm as soon as possible after your accident. Time can work against you in motorcycle accident cases, particularly because witnesses and evidence may not be as easily accessible as weeks, months, and years go by.
What kind of damages can I recover from my motorcycle accident injuries?
Recoverable damages for any motorcycle accident claim include economic and non-economic losses. Monetary damages generally include out-of-pocket costs for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages, while non-economic damages cover compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and disability or disfigurement.
With the help of our NYC, Long Island, and Bronx motorcycle accident lawyers, you can pursue compensation at the maximum level and get a fair settlement for the entire extent of your hardships.
Contact an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in New York
If you’re a motorcycle rider suffering from an injury after a serious accident in New York City, the Bronx, or Long Island, the personal injury lawyers at Leav & Steinberg can help you file a strong claim for financial compensation.
For over 20 years, our law firm has successfully represented hundreds of clients involved in accidents while riding motorcycles or using other forms of transportation in New York. Our motorcycle accident lawyer guarantee means you don’t pay unless we win your case, ensuring you get the dedicated representation you deserve.
Call us at 347-919-1361 to request a free consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney today.
