Manhattan Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Get Legal Assistance After a Motorcycle Accident in New York

Because motorcycles do not provide the same level of protection as cars or trucks, the majority of motorcycle riders typically suffer from multiple catastrophic injuries when an accident occurs.

Furthermore, because motorcycles are not equipped with seatbelts, airbags, protective steel frames, and other types of safety equipment commonly found in cars and trucks, many motorcycle accident victims sustain injuries so severe that they are often left permanently scarred, disfigured, or disabled.

Types of Motorcycle Accident Damages in New York

If you were involved in a motorcycle accident in New York and sustained an injury, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• your injuries
• pain
• suffering
• medical bills
• newfound financial hardship

However, in order to recover damages in a personal injury lawsuit, you must prove that the accident was directly caused by another person’s negligence.

How Motorcyclists Become Victims of Accidents in Manhattan

Motorcyclists often find themselves in vulnerable positions on the road. Despite adhering to traffic laws and wearing protective gear, they can still become victims due to factors beyond their control. Unlike car occupants, motorcyclists are exposed to direct impacts during collisions, which significantly increases the risk of severe injuries. The limited visibility of motorcycles to other drivers, coupled with the two-wheeled vehicle's inherent instability, often contributes to accidents. Furthermore, road hazards that might be minor inconveniences to cars, like potholes or wet pavement, can be treacherous for motorcyclists.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in New York

Motorcycle accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, many of which involve the negligence of other motorists or unsafe road conditions. Common causes include:

• Left-Turn Accidents: These occur when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle, often misjudging the motorcycle's speed or not seeing it at all.
• Lane Splitting: When motorcycles ride between rows of stopped or slow-moving cars, the close proximity to other vehicles and reduced space for maneuvering can lead to accidents.
• Speeding & Reckless Driving: Both motorcyclists and other vehicle drivers engaging in high speeds or reckless behavior increase the risk of collisions.
• Driving Under the Influence: Accidents involving impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs remain a significant problem, affecting motorcyclists and motorists alike.
• Road Hazards: Potholes, oil slicks, debris, and uneven road surfaces are more dangerous for motorcycles than for other vehicles.
• Sudden Stops: Rear-end accidents can be fatal for motorcyclists if a vehicle behind them fails to stop in time, often due to distracted driving or following too closely.
• Inexperienced Drivers: Inexperienced motorcyclists and other vehicle drivers lacking understanding of motorcycles' road behavior contribute to accidents.
• Vehicle Blind Spots: Motorcycles can easily fall into other vehicles' blind spots, especially large trucks and SUVs, leading to collisions during lane changes or merges.

Recognizing these causes can help motorcyclists stay alert and take preventive measures. However, when an accident occurs due to another’s negligence, it’s crucial to seek legal representation to fight for deserved compensation.

Common Injuries in Manhattan Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protective barriers between the rider and the road. In Manhattan, such accidents can be particularly dangerous due to the high traffic density and the presence of many commercial vehicles. Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), even when helmets are worn, due to the forceful impact that occurs during a collision. TBIs can have long-lasting effects on cognitive function and quality of life.

Another frequent injury is road rash, a skin abrasion that occurs when riders make contact with the pavement. Road rash can vary in severity, sometimes requiring extensive medical treatment involving skin grafts. Limb injuries, such as fractured bones or dislocations in arms and legs, are also common due to the impact and awkward positions that occur during a crash. These injuries often require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation to regain full mobility. Understanding the potential consequences of motorcycle accidents emphasizes the importance of having comprehensive medical and legal support in the aftermath.

Your First Steps After a Motorcycle Accident in New York

Experiencing a motorcycle accident can be traumatic and disorienting, but taking the right steps immediately following the incident can greatly influence the outcome of any subsequent legal actions. First and foremost, ensure your safety and the safety of others by moving to a safe area, if possible, and calling 911 to report the accident. Secure emergency medical care if there are injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, it's crucial to get evaluated by a healthcare professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

After addressing immediate medical concerns, collect as much information as possible from the accident scene. This includes taking photos of the scene, damages, and injuries, as well as gathering contact information from any witnesses. Documenting the details of the accident will be invaluable for your insurance claim. Notify your insurance company about the accident but avoid giving recorded statements without first consulting a motorcycle accident lawyer in Manhattan. Seeking legal representation quickly can help protect your rights, ensuring that you receive the appropriate compensation for your injuries and losses.