New Rochelle Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents can result in severe injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma. Navigating the legal process and securing fair compensation can be challenging. With experienced legal representation, you can protect your rights and receive the compensation you deserve. Contact Fiedler Deutsch, LLP to arrange a free consultation with our New Rochelle Motorcycle Accident Lawyer today.
What Makes Us the Right Choice in New Rochelle?
- Our New Rochelle personal injury law firm has extensive experience in handling motorcycle accident cases. We have successfully represented numerous clients and obtained significant settlements and verdicts.
- We understand that each case is unique and provide personalized attention to every client.
- We will provide compassionate support throughout the legal process, offering guidance, reassurance, and skilled advocacy.
Why You Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Here are several reasons why hiring a lawyer specializing in motorcycle accidents can be crucial for your case:
Knowledge of Motorcycle Accident Laws
A motorcycle accident lawyer has in-depth knowledge and understanding of the specific laws and regulations that apply to motorcycle accidents. They are familiar with the intricacies of these cases, including relevant traffic laws, insurance requirements, and liability issues. This experience allows them to navigate the legal process effectively and efficiently.
Investigation and Gathering of Evidence
Establishing liability in a motorcycle accident often requires a thorough investigation. A motorcycle accident lawyer has the resources to conduct one and will gather crucial evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, photographs, surveillance footage, and expert opinions if necessary. Then, they can determine liability and build a solid case on your behalf.
Understanding of the Full Extent of Damages
Motorcycle accidents can result in severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. A motorcycle accident lawyer will work with medical experts and specialists to evaluate the full extent of your damages to accurately estimate your claim’s worth.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies and other parties involved may try to take advantage of your vulnerable position by attempting to undervalue or deny your claim. A skilled lawyer will protect your rights, act as your advocate to ensure that you are treated fairly in negotiations, and will only settle for the compensation you deserve.
Trial Representation
While most motorcycle accident cases are resolved through negotiations, some may require litigation. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, a skilled New Rochelle accident lawyer will be prepared to take your case to trial. They have courtroom experience and the ability to present their arguments effectively to a judge and jury, fighting for the best possible outcome.
Options for Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident
After a motorcycle accident in New Rochelle, there are several options for seeking compensation for your damages.
Insurance Claims
If you carry collision coverage, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company. Depending on your policy, you may receive help with medical expenses, property damage, and potentially lost wages through personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payment coverage. However, you will be responsible for your deductible unless your insurer can recover compensation from the at-fault party.
Third-Party Claim
If another party, such as a negligent driver, is responsible for the accident, you may pursue a third-party liability claim against their insurance company. This can help you seek compensation for all of your accident-related losses.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If the at-fault party does not have insurance or has insufficient coverage, you may be able to make a claim if you carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
Personal Injury Lawsuit
If insurance claims do not fully compensate you for your damages or if the at-fault party does not have insurance, you may choose to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Government Claims
If the motorcycle accident was caused by a hazardous road condition or the negligence of a government entity responsible for road maintenance, you may be able to file a claim against the government for compensation.
A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you determine the best course of action for pursuing the maximum compensation possible.
Who is Liable for a Motorcycle Accident in New Rochelle?
Liability for motorcycle accidents depends on the specific circumstances surrounding the accident. Generally, it is determined based on the concept of negligence, which means that the person or party whose negligence caused the accident is responsible for damages. Here are some common parties who may be liable for your motorcycle accident:
A Driver
The most common cause of motorcycle accidents is driver negligence, which can include actions such as distracted driving (e.g., texting while driving), speeding, reckless driving, running red lights or stop signs, drunk driving, or failing to yield the right-of-way. The driver at fault can be held liable for the accident.
Employers
If a motorcycle accident involves an at-fault driver who was considered working at the time of the accident, their employer may be liable.
Vehicle Manufacturers
If a defect in the motorcycle or its parts caused the accident, the manufacturer may be held liable for producing a faulty product.
Government Entities
In some cases, poor road conditions, inadequate signage, faded lines, or lack of proper maintenance by government entities may contribute to motorcycle accidents. In such instances, the government entity responsible for the road may be held partially liable.
Determining liability in motorcycle accidents can be complex, and it often requires a thorough investigation of the accident and gathering evidence.
Types of Compensation Available in a New Rochelle Motorcycle Accident Claim
Here are some common types of compensation that can be sought in a motorcycle accident claim:
Medical Expenses
Compensation for all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to the accident. This includes emergency medical care, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, physical therapy, assistive devices, and ongoing treatment.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and income. This includes both current and future lost wages, as well as any difference in the income you can make now compared to before, known as reduced earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident and resulting injuries.
Property Damage
If your motorcycle was damaged or destroyed in the accident, you can seek compensation for the repair or replacement costs.
Loss of Consortium
In cases where injuries significantly impact your relationship with your spouse, compensation may be available for the loss of consortium, which includes the loss of companionship, support, and the inability to engage in marital relations.
Wrongful Death
If a motorcycle accident tragically results in a fatality, the surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim in New Rochelle. Compensation can include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of inheritance, and more.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in New Rochelle
Some of the common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Distracted Driving: Motorists who are distracted by cell phones, navigation systems, or other distractions can fail to notice motorcycles on the road.
- Failure to Yield Right of Way: Motorists often fail to yield the right of way to motorcycles at intersections, while changing lanes, or when making turns.
- Unsafe Lane Changes: When drivers fail to check blind spots or signal properly, they may collide with motorcycles while changing lanes.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces the reaction time for both motorcyclists and other drivers, making it difficult to avoid collisions.
- Impaired Driving: Impaired driving refers to driving or riding under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or even prescription medications. All of which can impair judgment, slow reaction time, and reduce the ability to control a vehicle or motorcycle.
- Lane Splitting: Lane splitting occurs when motorcycles ride between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic, which is illegal in New York. It can be dangerous since drivers may be unaware or unprepared for motorcycles passing by.
- Unsafe Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, uneven surfaces, or slippery road conditions can pose significant hazards to motorcyclists.
- Inexperienced Motorcyclists: Lack of experience and improper motorcycle handling techniques.
It is highly recommended that motorcyclists prioritize defensive riding by remaining alert to anticipate other motorists’ movements and wearing proper safety gear to reduce the risk or severity of collisions. While motorists should stay attentive, check blind spots, and give motorcycles sufficient space on the road.
Speak to a New Rochelle Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
We will help you understand your rights and work to maximize the compensation you receive for your injuries and other losses resulting from a motorcycle accident. Call (914) 993-0393 or message us online.