Providing The Experienced Representation You Need
Riding a motorcycle can be a basic means of transportation or a fun weekend ride. While riding a motorcycle can be an enjoyable pastime, unfortunately, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. When these accidents do happen, riders frequently suffer from major injuries and are unsure of what the future will look like. At Davidoff Law, we have helped injured motorcyclists in Queens and throughout New York. We’ll help you find the light at the end of the tunnel.
Because motorcycle accidents can be so severe, having an experienced attorney on your side is of the utmost importance. At our firm, we are committed to getting you the best possible result. We understand how emotionally and financially draining the recovery process can be. Whether it is helping you find proper medical care or getting compensation for your injuries, we are here to help you through every step of the process.
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New York Motorcycle Laws: What You Need To Know
The state of New York enforces certain motorcycle-specific traffic laws. These laws are in place to protect your safety and the safety of others around you while you ride. It’s important that you are aware of and abide by all applicable state laws while riding your motorcycle.
According to the New York Department of Health, the following motorcycle laws are in effect:
- Anyone who operates a motorcycle in New York must have a Class M or Class MJ license/learner’s permit.
- You must take and pass an approved road test, unless you have both a driver’s license and a motorcycle permit, in which case you may waive the road test and complete an educational training course offered by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
- All motorcycle operators and riders must wear an approved motorcycle helmet, as well as approved eyewear.
- All motorcycle operators must have their headlights on during both daytime and nighttime hours. Headlight modulators are allowed.
- If there is a passenger, the motorcycle must have a passenger seat and footrests.
- If a motorcycle operator uses a helmet with speakers, it can only have one earphone.
- Two motorcycles may share one lane, but no more than two motorcyclists may ride side by side in a single lane.
Additionally, motorcyclists in New York must meet certain insurance requirements. These minimum requirements include at least $25,000 for bodily injury and $50,000 for death per person and at least $50,000 for bodily injury and $100,000 for death per accident in insurance coverage, as well as at least $10,000 in property damage per accident.
Why You Should Always Wear A Motorcycle Helmet
Driving safely is always in your best interest and it is important to be a confident driver. That being said, some things are simply out of your control. Motorcycles are smaller than most cars, so when a crash happens, it can be catastrophic. Road and weather conditions also have a major influence on the impact of a crash.
While we do everything we can to protect ourselves, some drivers don’t always wear a helmet, despite the fact that it is the law in New York. Whether or not you were wearing a helmet at the time of your accident may have no influence on your case. Some riders, however, have received a smaller settlement after an accident in which they were not wearing a helmet. It all depends on what your opponent says, and whether or not they try to use the fact that you weren’t wearing a helmet as proof that you were being negligent.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Another reason it is so important to always wear a helmet and, in general, to always engage in safe driving techniques, is because of the serious, life-altering injuries motorcycle accidents often cause.
Some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Fractures
- Road rash/burn injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Accidental amputation
- Soft tissue damage
- Hemorrhaging
- Internal organ damage
At Davidoff Law, we understand how serious these injuries are; we know the extent of medical treatment and care you will likely need, not only right after the accident but on into the future as well. We work to recover full compensation for your current and future medical expenses, as well as your current and future lost wages and ongoing pain and suffering.
Call Today To Discuss Your Case
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, talking to an attorney is an important first step in successfully recovering compensation for your losses. We invite you to reach out to our Queens motorcycle accident attorneys for help with your claim in Queens or throughout New York. We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients, and we are ready to fight tirelessly for you every step of the way.
QUEENS MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT FAQ:
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim after a motorcycle accident?
In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims arising from a motorcycle accident is generally three years from the date of the accident. It is crucial that you consult with a lawyer promptly to ensure compliance with the specific deadlines and preserve your right to pursue a claim.
What types of compensation can I seek in a motorcycle accident case?
In a motorcycle accident case, you may seek various types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: Coverage for past and future medical treatment, hospital bills, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: Compensation for the income you lost due to missed work during recovery.
- Pain and suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and the impact on your quality of life.
- Property damage: Reimbursement for repairs or replacement of your motorcycle and other damaged property.
- Loss of consortium: Compensation for the negative impact on your relationships and companionship.
Should I accept a settlement offer from the insurance company?
Determining whether to accept a settlement offer from the insurance company is a decision that should be carefully considered. Insurance companies may offer settlements that are less than what you deserve. To be sure that your best interests are being considered, you should consult with a lawyer who can assess the value of your claim, negotiate on your behalf, and advise you on the fairness of the settlement offer based on the specifics of your case.
