1. What should I do if I’m injured in a motorcycle accident?

If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident, your first priority should be to seek immediate medical attention, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries that may not be immediately apparent, so it’s important to get a thorough medical evaluation.

Document the accident scene if possible, including taking photos of the vehicles involved, your injuries, and any road conditions that may have contributed to the accident. Obtain contact information from the other driver, as well as any witnesses. It’s crucial to report the accident to the police and ensure an official accident report is filed.

Avoid making any statements about fault or discussing the accident with the other driver’s insurance company before consulting with one of our experienced Bronx motorcycle accident lawyers. We can help you navigate the legal process, gather necessary evidence, and ensure your rights are protected while pursuing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.

2. Who can be held liable for a motorcycle accident in New York?

In New York, liability for a motorcycle accident can fall on several parties depending on the circumstances. The driver of the other vehicle involved is often the first party considered, especially if they were negligent, such as by speeding, failing to yield, driving under the influence, or violating traffic laws.

However, liability may also extend to other parties, such as the motorcycle manufacturer if a defect in the bike contributed to the accident, or the city or municipality if poor road conditions or inadequate signage played a role. In cases where multiple vehicles are involved, determining liability can be more complex and may involve several parties.

3. How is a motorcycle accident case different from other personal injury cases?

A motorcycle accident case differs from other personal injury cases primarily due to the unique vulnerabilities of motorcyclists and the severe nature of the injuries often sustained.

Motorcyclists are more exposed on the road, which can lead to catastrophic injuries such as fractures, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and more in the event of an accident. Additionally, there may be biases against motorcyclists, which can complicate the legal process.

Proving negligence may require evidence from traffic cameras, eyewitness accounts, and expert testimony. Our Bronx motorcycle accident lawyers have extensive experience handling these unique challenges and are committed to ensuring that all liable parties are held accountable for their negligence.

4. How much compensation can I get for a motorcycle accident injury in New York?

The amount of compensation you can receive for a motorcycle accident injury in New York depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your ability to work, and the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Compensation typically includes medical expenses, such as hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any ongoing treatment required. You may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages if your injury prevents you from working, as well as future lost earnings if the injury results in long-term disability.

Additionally, compensation may cover pain and suffering, which accounts for the physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the accident. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish particularly negligent or reckless behavior by the driver.

5. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a motorcycle accident in the Bronx?

In the Bronx, as in the rest of New York, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit related to a motorcycle accident is generally three years from the date of the injury. This means you have a limited time to initiate legal action against the responsible parties.

However, if the motorcycle accident resulted in a wrongful death, the family of the deceased typically has two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. It’s important to note that certain circumstances, such as cases involving government-owned vehicles or defective road conditions, may have different time limits.