Key Takeaways
- Motorcycle accidents result in more severe injuries than other motor vehicle collisions.
- Driver inattention or failure to yield causes many motorcycle crashes in New York.
- Speeding reduces reaction time and increases injury severity in motorcycle crashes.
- Hazardous road conditions create instability for motorcycles, especially during adverse weather.
- Call 911 after a motorcycle accident to obtain a police report.
Motorcycle accidents result in considerably more severe injuries compared to other types of motor vehicle collisions. Distracted driving, speeding, and failure to comply with right-of-way laws are among the most common factors behind these crashes, with a significant portion attributable to driver negligence. When damage is extensive, a motorcycle may also be declared a total loss, adding another layer of complexity to the claim.
At Law Office Of Cohen & Jaffe – Long Island Personal Injury Lawyers, our Queens motorcycle accident attorneys help riders across New York understand their rights after an accident caused by the negligence of another.
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Top Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in New York
Motorcycle crashes in New York stem from a range of factors, including driver negligence, road hazards, impairment, and limited visibility. Urban environments like New York City pose additional risks, including dooring incidents in which riders face sudden obstacles from parked vehicles.
The common causes of motorcycle accidents in New York include:
- Driver Inattention and Failure to Yield: Many drivers overlook motorcycles at intersections or during left turns, leading to sudden-impact collisions.
- Improper Lane Changes: Unsafe merging and lane shifts contribute to a significant share of crashes across New York roadways.
- Speeding: Higher speeds reduce reaction time and increase the severity of injuries during a crash.
- Dooring Incidents: Parked vehicle occupants open doors into active lanes, placing riders in immediate danger.
- Distracted Driving: Phone use and in-vehicle distractions continue to have a major role in preventable collisions.
- Hazardous Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, and slick pavement create instability for motorcycles, especially during adverse weather.
- Alcohol or Drug Impairment: Impaired judgment increases the risk of crashes for riders and other drivers. According to the NHTSA, nighttime fatal crashes involve alcohol impairment at significantly higher rates, highlighting a persistent safety concern.
- Blind Spot Risks: Motorcycles often remain unseen near larger vehicles such as trucks and SUVs.
Safety Considerations
Reducing injury risk starts before a ride begins. Key safety considerations include:
- Protective Gear: Using DOT-approved helmets and reinforced riding apparel reduces the likelihood of severe injuries during impact.
- Visibility: Riders who position themselves outside vehicle blind spots and maintain clear sightlines improve reaction time and reduce collision risk.
Even when riders take every precaution, accidents caused by others’ negligence can still happen. Understanding these risks is an important step toward protecting your rights if you are ever injured on the road.
Steps to Take if You Experience a Motorcycle Accident
There are essential steps to take following a motorcycle accident for your safety and to help your motorcycle accident claim later down the road. Your first priority should always be your safety and the safety of others. The following are steps to consider following a motorcycle accident:
- Call 911, even if you don’t think you need emergency medical attention
- A responding officer will prepare a police report, where you can explain what caused the accident
- Gather other types of evidence from the accident scene, including photos, videos, interview witnesses, obtain driver information, and other relevant details
- Always get a medical evaluation following an accident in the case of latent injuries
- Speak to an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer for legal guidance.
At Law Office Of Cohen & Jaffe – Long Island Personal Injury Lawyers, we can negotiate on your behalf, conduct an investigation into your accident, and obtain valuable evidence needed for a successful claim. We can pursue the fair compensation you deserve for the losses you sustained due to a negligent driver.
Contact a Queens Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you have suffered substantial injuries in a motorcycle accident caused by driver negligence, speak to a professional motorcycle accident lawyer for a complimentary assessment of your claim. You may be able to recover fair compensation for the losses you have endured, such as medical expenses, lost wages, emotional suffering, property damages, and other expenses related to the accident.
At Law Office Of Cohen & Jaffe – Long Island Personal Injury Lawyers, we offer comprehensive and dedicated legal representation with over a century of combined experience. Call us today at 516-358-6900 for a free consultation.
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