New Hyde Park Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Riding your motorcycle is one of the most enjoyable, exhilarating ways to enjoy the outdoors, but many enthusiasts are well-aware that the high risk of accidents makes them vulnerable to injuries. According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, there are around 2,300 motorcycle accidents every year in Long Island and New York City alone. Of these, almost 1,700 are injury-causing and approximately 45 are fatal motorcycle collisions. When you consider the design and size of a motorcycle compared to a passenger vehicle, you can expect that it is the rider who bears the brunt of the impact.
It may come as a comfort to know that New York law provides you with legal remedies as the victim of a motorcycle crash, including the right to recover compensation from a negligent motorist. Because the process is complex, rely on our New Hyde Park motorcycle accident lawyers at Giuffre Law Offices, P.C. for assistance. You can set up a no-cost case evaluation to learn details, and read on for an overview of the legal concepts.
How Motorcycle Crashes Happen
Like other traffic-related accidents, motorcycle collisions are usually the result of carelessness. This concept is termed negligence in the practice of law, and it requires you to prove certain essential elements. You need evidence showing that the at-fault motorist failed to exercise reasonable care when driving, and this breach of duty was the direct cause of the crash. Some examples of negligence include:
- Speeding;
- Failure to yield;
- Drunk or drugged driving;
- Running red lights, stop signs, and other traffic controls; and
- Distracted driving, such as talking on the phone, texting, eating, adjusting the radio, and using a GPS.
Unlike auto accidents, incidents involving motorcycles do not fall under New York’s no-fault laws for purposes of insurance. As such, you will file a claim with the responsible motorist’s insurance company, and you will need to prove fault. Our New Hyde Park motorcycle crash lawyers are prepared to conduct in-depth investigations and collect essential evidence to establish your rights.
What to do if You Were Injured in a Motorcycle Collision
While you can rely on our team at Giuffre Law Offices, P.C. to handle the necessary legal tasks, you can support our efforts by taking action at the scene of the motorcycle accident. Your first priority should be getting proper medical care, as delays could harm your interests. If you are able depending on the nature of your injuries, you should also:
- Take photos of the vehicles, your injuries, the intersection or stretch of road, traffic signals, and other physical characteristics;
- Get contact information from any witnesses who observed the crash; and
- Jot down the names of businesses in the vicinity, as they may have surveillance video footage.
Discuss Legal Options with a New Hyde Park Motorcycle Accident Attorney
This information may be helpful, but it should also convince you that retaining experienced legal counsel is essential after a motorcycle accident. For more information, please contact Giuffre Law Offices, P.C. to schedule a free consultation. We can explain your legal remedies after reviewing the details of your case.
