Motorcycles give riders the freedom to move within New York City more efficiently. However, unfortunately, motorcycles do not give riders as much protection as other vehicles in the event of a collision. As such, many motorcyclists suffer significant, and even life-threatening injuries when these accidents occur. New York City motorcycle accident attorney Michael J. Redenburg helps the victims of these crashes pursue the proper legal action against those responsible. It is often another driver, or even dangerous road conditions, that contribute to causing a motorcycle accident.
In these instances, those parties should be held accountable for the harm that results. Mr. Redenburg works tirelessly to make sure motorcycle accident victims receive the compensation they need, and are entitled to, to aid in their recovery. If you’ve been injured, or lost a loved one, as a result of a devastating motorcycle crash, contact our office today at (212) 240-9465 and set up a free initial consultation to discuss your legal options.
New York City Motorcycle Accidents
A common misconception is that motorcyclists are the ones who cause their own accidents.
In fact, most often other drivers’ actions lead to these collisions.
Drivers of other vehicles will fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists, neglect to check their blind spots, tailgate, and otherwise act recklessly on the road. Motorcycle riders involved in collisions with a car or truck will also likely suffer more significant injuries, as they do not have the benefits of a vehicle’s structure that others do. Motorcycles being on two wheels versus four also make them more unstable on roadways, especially if road conditions are poor.
Potholes, drainage issues, and other problems somewhat unique to New York City roads also contribute to the frequency of motorcycle accidents. Fatalities due to motorcycle crashes in NYC is almost twice the amount of elsewhere.
If you’ve been involved or lost a loved one, in a motorcycle accident, an experienced injury attorney in New York City can help you determine the next legal step.
Holding Parties Liable for Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcyclists are responsible for keeping themselves as safe as possible on the road. In New York, anyone operating a motorcycle is required to wear a U.S. DOT-approved motorcycle helmet including proper eye protection.
They are also required to have the minimum liability insurance policies of $25,000 for bodily injury per person, per accident and $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident. Often, however, these benefit amounts are not enough to cover the costs of a catastrophic injury. In these situations, a lawsuit against at-fault parties can be filed. Depending on the circumstances, parties that can be held liable may be transportation authorities, bus or truck drivers, a government agency, or the manufacturer of a defective part that played a role in causing a crash. Consulting a New York City motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible is advisable to ensure the proper parties are held accountable.
Personal injury and wrongful death claims arising out of a motorcycle collision are based on the legal theory of negligence. Negligence is present if a defendant is shown to have breached their duty of reasonable care to another. That breach must also be a proximate cause of the victim’s injury or death and have resulted in damages.
A driver’s failure to yield the right of way to a motorcyclist or the failure of a government entity to fix a known dangerous road condition are both examples of unreasonable, and negligent, actions. Victims of motorcycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for past and future medical expenses, loss of income, loss of earning capacity, as well as pain and suffering damages. Surviving family members who have lost a loved one in a fatal collision may be compensated for any outstanding medical bills related to the injury that caused the victim’s death, as well as burial and funeral costs, and loss of support.
With respect to medical bills, it is important to note that there is no no-fault insurance available to motorcyclists injured in an accident. So for example, in a car accident, the occupants of each car look to their own car insurance policy to pay their medical bills. Because no-fault insurance does not apply to motorcyclists, an injured motorcyclist will have to initially pay for their medical treatment out-of-pocket, or find a medical provider that will treat them on a lien basis, to be paid at the end of the conclusion of the personal injury action filed.
New York City Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. Victims should be focused on healing and be able to trust their attorney to handle the legal process.
New York City motorcycle accident lawyer Michael J. Redenburg is committed to offering compassionate and comprehensive legal representation for clients throughout proceedings.
From initial investigation and evidence gathering until the conclusion of litigation and trial if necessary, Mr. Redenburg strives to make sure his clients receive the maximum compensation they’re due. Our firm represents residents throughout New York City including Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island. We also help clients in Nassau County, Suffolk County, and Westchester County. Contact our office today at 212-240-9465 to find out more about our legal services and see how we can help get the Wheels of Justice spinning for you today!