Whether you ride recreationally or simply as a means of transportation, you are probably aware of the risks that you face as a motorcyclist, especially in New York City. Unlike drivers of passenger vehicles, motorcyclists are afforded little to no protection in a collision. Aside from wearing a helmet, there is little that you can do to protect yourself against the impact of another, much larger vehicle. It is for this reason that the injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident are generally catastrophic. Even so, it is important to understand that you have rights.
Regardless of how the motorcycle accident occurred, if another driver was to blame, you have the right to seek damages for the financial, emotional and physical losses that you have suffered. With the help of a New York City motorcycle accident attorney from Jaroslawicz & Jaros, you can file a claim to recover compensation for the cost of your medical expenses and lost earnings, as well as for the pain and suffering that you have endured.
We are available to our clients 24/7, so don’t wait any longer to schedule your free initial consultation. Call today.
Motorcycle Safety Laws In New York
New York has a universal helmet law, meaning helmets are required for all motorcyclists. The only exemption to this law is for motorcyclists riding in a parade or other public exhibition.
Other Motorcycle Safety Laws Include:
- $100 fine for any motorcyclist or passenger not wearing a helmet
- A possible 30-day jail sentence for failure to wear a helmet
- Required eye protection for all motorcyclists
Not all states have a universal helmet law. Some states like Kansas and Arizona have age-specific helmet laws while other states like Iowa and Illinois have no helmet laws at all.
Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents In NYC
Insurance companies and law enforcement often have a bias against motorcyclists. There is a perception that all motorcyclists are reckless drivers, so when accidents happen, motorcyclists can be wrongfully blamed. In reality, many motorcycle accidents are caused by other motorists. Causes can include:
- Distracted driving (such as texting while driving)
- Driver intoxication
- Improper lane changes
- Speeding
Types Of Motorcycle Accidents In New York
The “door zone” is extremely dangerous in New York City. Many accidents are caused when a driver or passenger in a parked car opens a street-side door into the path of an oncoming motorcyclist. Individuals should always look for traffic before opening a door toward the street, but they often fail to do so and can be held responsible for your “dooring” accident.
Failure to yield is another common type of motorcycle accident. Drivers must share the road with motorcyclists and afford them all the rights and privileges entitled to other motorists. Motorists should always yield the right of way to motorcyclists when necessary.
Blind spot accidents are extremely common for motorcycle accidents due to the size disparity between passenger/commercial vehicles and motorcycles. With the amount of congestion on NYC roads, motorcyclists are often sideswiped by drivers who change lanes without checking their blind spots.
Accident Statistics
Much research has been conducted on motorcycle accidents. We’ve listed some of the major findings below.
- In 2008, motorcycle accidents reached an all-time low in the United States, while in the same year, motorcyclist deaths reached an all-time high.
- Over seven years (2001-2008), 34,000 motorcyclists were killed and more than 1.2 Million were injured.
- The highest percentage of motorcyclist deaths was among 20- to 29-year-olds.
- The most common injury resulting from motorcycle accidents is leg/foot injury.
- In 2011, 4,612 motorcyclists were killed in the U.S.
Our Law Firm Has Already Recovered over $1 Billion In Damages
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle collision, you shouldn’t wait to take action. The other party’s insurance company will be anxious to settle your claim quickly, and for as little money as possible, so it is imperative that you discuss the facts of your case with an attorney. With Jaroslawicz & Jaros, PLLC, by your side, you may have a much better chance at establishing liability and fighting for the settlement or verdict that you deserve. We have been representing accident victims since 1980, and our NYC personal injury lawyers have already managed to recover more than $1 Billion in damages on behalf of past clients.
Call now to find out how the team at Jaroslawicz & Jaros can assist you. Or fill out our online questionnaire to get started.
