New York Motorcycle Accidents Attorney

Get Legal Representation from the Top Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in New York at Shalom Law

Motorcycle accidents can lead to severe injuries, significant financial burdens, and emotional trauma. At Shalom Law, we specialize in representing motorcyclists who have been injured due to the negligence of others. Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in New York, are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal system and secure the compensation you deserve. Serving clients not only in Forest Hills, but all throughout Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island, Nassau County, Suffolk County, and parts of Upstate New York, Shalom Law is here to support you every step of the way.

Facts and Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 29 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash per vehicle mile traveled. Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protective barriers between the rider and the road. Understanding these statistics highlights the importance of legal representation for injured motorcyclists.

• High Risk of Fatalities: Motorcyclists are significantly more likely to suffer fatal injuries in accidents compared to other vehicle occupants due to the open-exposure nature of the vehicle being driven.
• Severe Injuries: Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures, and road rash, especially in cases where proper safety gear such as a helmet wasn’t worn.
• Vulnerability: Motorcyclists are more vulnerable to road hazards and weather conditions, increasing the risk of accidents.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Negligence

• Distracted Driving: Many accidents occur because drivers are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted while driving. Distracted driving significantly reduces a driver’s reaction time and awareness of motorcyclists.

• Failure to Yield: Drivers often fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists at intersections or while making turns, leading to collisions.

• Speeding: Speeding is the leading cause of motorcycle accidents throughout New York City and Long Island. Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden obstacles, making accidents more likely and more severe. High-speed collisions with motorcycles often result in catastrophic injuries.

• Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s judgment and reaction times, contributing to accidents.

Poor Road Conditions

• Potholes: Large potholes can cause motorcyclists to lose control of their bikes, resulting in accidents.
• Uneven Pavement: Irregularities in the road surface can be hazardous for motorcyclists, leading to falls and collisions.
• Debris on the Road: Loose gravel, leaves, and other debris can create slippery conditions, increasing the risk of accidents.

Poor Weather Conditions

• Slippery Roads: Motorycles can become very hard to handle when roads are slippery from heavy rain or winter weather, causing loss of control and potential accidents.
• Low Visbility: Heavy rain or snow can cause low visibility on the road which can create life threatening siutations on the road.

Lack of Motorcycle Awareness

• Blind Spots: Motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles on the congested roads of New York and can easily be overlooked by drivers, especially in blind spots, leading to accidents.

• Lane Splitting: Although legal in some states, lane splitting is illegal in New York State and can be dangerous and increase the risk of collisions, especially if drivers are not expecting it.

Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents in New York

• Head-On Collisions: Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of motorcycle accidents in New York, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities due to the high impact forces involved.

• Left-Turn Accidents: These occur when a vehicle making a left turn collides with an oncoming motorcycle. This type of accident is common at busy intersections and often happens because the driver fails to see the motorcyclist.

• Lane Change Accidents: Accidents occur when a vehicle changes lanes without noticing a motorcycle in the adjacent lane. This can result in the motorcycle being sideswiped or forced off the road.

• Single Motorcycle Accidents: These involve only the motorcyclist and can be caused by factors such as road hazards, mechanical failures, or rider error.

• Rear-End Collisions: When a vehicle strikes a motorcycle from behind, the lack of protective barriers can lead to severe injuries for the rider.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries in cases we have taken include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries: Even with helmets, motorcyclists can suffer serious head injuries in a crash.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
• Fractures: Broken bones are common in high-impact crashes and can range from minor fractures to severe breaks requiring surgery.
• Road Rash: Severe abrasions caused by sliding across the pavement in an accident, which can lead to infections and in severe cases, require skin grafts.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs can occur from the impact of a crash after a motorcycle accident, often requiring emergency surgery.
• Lacerations and Bruises: Cuts and bruises from impact with the road, debris, or other vehicles are common in motorcycle accidents and can vary in severity.

Motorcycle Laws in New York

• Proper Helmets and Eyewear
  In New York, all motorcycle riders and passengers are required by law to wear a Department of Transportation (DOT) approved helmet. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries and fatalities in accidents. Additionally, riders must wear protective eyewear unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen.
• Licensing and Endorsements
  Motorcyclists must have a valid motorcycle license or endorsement to legally operate a motorcycle in New York. This requires passing a written test, a motorcycle safety course, and a road test.
• Lane Splitting
  Lane splitting, or riding between lanes of traffic, is illegal in New York. Motorcyclists must adhere to the same traffic laws as other vehicles and can be ticketed for lane splitting.
• Passenger Restrictions
  Motorcycles must be equipped with a passenger seat and footrests if carrying a passenger. The passenger must also wear a DOT-approved helmet.
• Insurance Requirements
  New York requires motorcyclists to carry minimum liability insurance coverage, including bodily injury and property damage. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is also recommended.

Steps to Take if You Have a Motorcycle Accident

Ensure Safety

• Move to a Safe Location: If possible, move out of the road to avoid any further danger from oncoming traffic.
• Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others involved for injuries and call 911 for immediate medical assistance.

Document the Scene

• Take Photos: If possible, photograph the accident scene, your motorcycle, any vehicles involved, and visible injuries. These photos can be crucial evidence in your case.
• Gather Contact Information: Try to collect names, phone numbers, and addresses of witnesses and the other party involved in the accident. Witness statements can support your case.

Report the Accident

• File a Police Report: Contact the police to file an official report. This report will be a critical document in your personal injury claim.

Seek Medical Attention

• Get a Medical Evaluation: Even if your injuries seem minor, it is important to get checked by a medical professional. Hidden injuries such as internal bleeding and head trauma are commonin motorcycle accidents and can be life threatening if not promptly treated.

Contact a New York Car Motorcycle Attorney

• Reach Out to Shalom Law: Contact Shalom Law for a free consultation to discuss your case with our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys. We will guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

How Shalom Law Can Help You with Your Motorcycle Accident

At Shalom Law, our dedicated motorcycle accident attorneys in New York, have extensive experience handling complex personal injury cases. We will:

Investigate the Accident

• Gather Evidence: We collect and preserve all evidence related to your accident, including photos, videos, and witness statements. Thorough and clear evidence is crucial for building a strong case.
• Interview Witnesses: Our team conducts interviews with any witnesses and other parties involved in the accident to build a strong case on your behalf. Witnesses can provide valuable insights and corroborate your account of the accident.
• Review Police Reports: We carefully examine police reports to identify any inconsistencies or errors that could impact your case. A detailed review of official reports helps ensure that all relevant information is considered.

Handle Insurance Claims

• Communicate with Insurance Companies: We handle all communications with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair treatment and maximum compensation. Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging as they will do everything in their legal power to minimize payouts, but we have the expertise to advocate on your behalf.
• Negotiate Settlements: Our motorcycle accident attorneys are skilled negotiators who strive to settle your case out of court, securing the best possible outcome for you. Effective negotiation can expedite the resolution of your case and maximize your compensation.

Representation in Court

• Prepare for Trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. Our attorneys are experienced litigators who will vigorously represent your interests.
• Advocate for You: We will present a compelling case on your behalf in court, using the evidence we have gathered to support your claims and seek the maximum compensation available.

Provide Personalized Support

• Tailored Legal Guidance: We offer compassionate, personalized legal guidance tailored to your unique situation and needs. Personalized attention and care ensures that your specific concerns and goals are addressed.
• Regular Updates: We keep you informed about the progress of your case and answer any questions you may have throughout the process. Clear and consistent communication helps you stay informed and confident in the legal process.

By choosing Shalom Law, you are choosing a firm committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your motorcycle accident case. Visit our Personal Injury Law page for more information on how we can assist you.

Shalom Law Will Fight For You

Motorcycle accidents can have devastating long-lasting consequences, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Shalom Law is here to provide expert legal assistance and support. Contact our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in New York, today at (718) 971-9474 for a free consultation. Let us help you secure the compensation you deserve and get back on the road to recovery.

Motorcycle Accident FAQ