New York Motorcycle Accidents: Protect Your Rights with Talisman & DeLorenz, P.C.

Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, with over 4,600 fatalities occurring annually across the United States, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In New York alone, there are approximately 166 fatal motorcycle accidents each year, along with nearly a thousand accidents causing serious injuries and around 3,000 with less severe injuries. Being 26 times more likely to die and five times more likely to be injured than occupants of passenger cars, motorcyclists face significant risks on the road. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is crucial to seek immediate assistance from an experienced New York motorcycle accident attorney at Talisman & DeLorenz, P.C.

Primary Factors Associated With Motorcycle Accidents:

Visibility is a primary factor contributing to motorcycle accidents, as drivers of passenger vehicles may overlook or fail to notice motorcyclists on the road. Common scenarios include side-swiping when changing lanes, backing out of driveways without seeing the motorcyclist, or miscalculating the speed of an oncoming motorcyclist during a left-hand turn.

The top ten causes of motorcycle crashes involving human factors include:

• Driving at unsafe speeds, whether on the part of the motorcyclist or the automobile driver;
• Failure to yield the right-of-way;
• Distraction or inattention on the part of one or both drivers;
• Driver inexperience, primarily associated with motorcyclists;
• Tailgating;
• Passing improperly;
• Reaction of uninvolved vehicle;
• Improper turns;
• Changing lanes improperly, and
• The use of alcohol.

Environmental factors can also play a role in motorcycle accidents, such as slick pavement, animals on the road, debris, obstructed views, and defective pavement.

New York Motorcycle Laws and Insurance Requirements:

Motorcyclists in New York are granted the same rights as drivers of automobiles under Article 9, New York Vehicle and Traffic Laws, §381. Motorcyclists must ensure they have proper equipment, including adequate brakes, signaling devices, stop lights, mufflers to prevent unnecessary noise, and appropriate helmets and face protection.

It’s important to note that motorcycle insurance and liability rules differ significantly from those for automobile drivers. Motorcycles are not considered motor vehicles under New York No-Fault Laws, meaning motorcyclists are not covered for lost wages and medical benefits like other motor vehicle drivers. However, this also means motorcyclists are not subject to the No-fault threshold, allowing them to bring a claim against a negligent driver for less serious injuries.

New York law mandates that all motorcyclists carry minimum insurance coverage of $25,000 per person injured and $50,000 for two or more persons injured in an accident. Additionally, they must have minimum coverage of $50,000 for one person and $100,000 for two or more persons killed in an accident. Uninsured motorist insurance is also available for purchase and highly recommended for all motorcyclists.

The Complexities of Motorcycle Cases:

Motorcycle accident cases are unique and can be challenging due to stereotypical biases against motorcyclists. Some jurors may hold misconceptions that all motorcyclists are reckless daredevils, which can impact the perception of the case. It’s crucial for your motorcycle accident attorney to effectively combat these biases and demonstrate that you were operating your motorcycle safely and responsibly, while highlighting the negligence of the other driver involved in the accident.

Contact Talisman & DeLorenz, P.C. – Your New York Motorcycle Accident Attorneys:

If you or someone you love has suffered a motorcycle accident in New York, it’s vital to have an experienced personal injury law firm on your side from the very beginning. At Talisman & DeLorenz, P.C, we have over 50 years of extensive experience representing injured construction workers and their families. As Members of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the National Top 100 Trial Lawyers, we are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring your future is protected.

Call us today at 718-302-6802 for a free consultation and review of your case, or fill out our confidential online contact form. You deserve a strong legal advocate who will stand by you, advocating for your rights and future.