When the snow melts and the trees begin to bloom, for many motorcyclists it’s the perfect time to take the bike out on the road. While there’s nothing quite like that first ride of the season, motorcycle accidents often spike during the springtime. For more than 40 years, the motorcycle accident lawyers at James Alexander Law have helped injured victims get back on their feet after a crash. Here, we talk about why spring is a risky time for motorcyclists in central New York and how our injury attorneys can help if you’ve been hurt in a crash.
Why Spring Can Be a Dangerous Time for Motorcyclists
Both motorcyclists and drivers are eager to enjoy the open road in the spring. However, after months of winter with no motorcycles on the road, drivers may forget that they need to look out for them. Increased traffic, distracted driving, potholes, and rainy weather can also create a perfect storm for motorcycle accidents in New York. Unfortunately, our injury lawyers have seen the devastating consequences that result from being in a motorcycle crash. We advise motorcyclists and drivers alike to step up their game in the spring and pay extra attention to their surroundings while out and about.
How Motorcyclists Can Stay Safer on the Road
Because they have no protection surrounding them, motorcyclists are a lot more vulnerable to injury, so it’s vital to do everything you can to avoid accidents. Being aware of your surroundings at all times and making yourself visible are essential to motorcycle safety. Avoid riding in other vehicles’ blind spots and don’t engage in dangerous behaviors like speeding, weaving, and lane splitting. Approach intersections with caution – many motorcycle accidents happen because drivers turning left fail to see riders coming their way.
Our motorcycle accident attorneys know It can be tempting to skip protective, reflective gear like a helmet, jacket, pants, and boots. However, wearing proper gear saves lives, and DOT-approved helmets are required by law in New York. Failing to wear a helmet can leave you more vulnerable to serious head and brain injuries and may even have a negative impact on your potential motorcycle accident claim. It’s also essential to perform a thorough inspection of your bike before hitting the road – make sure your motorcycle tires, lights, brakes, and mirrors are all in good working order.
Drivers Have a Duty to Drive Responsibly
Drivers of other vehicles can also save lives and avoid car accidents by looking out for motorcyclists in the spring and year-round. Paying extra attention when turning left at intersections, using turn signals, checking blind spots, and refraining from tailgating motorcycles can help keep everyone safer.
Common Motorcycle Injuries
Even a seemingly minor motorcycle crash can result in serious injuries such as:
- Broken or crushed bones
- Head, neck and back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries that result in paralysis
- Traumatic brain injury
- Damage to organs and internal bleeding
- Road rash
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Amputation
These types of catastrophic injuries often require costly medical treatment like surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, home modifications, and more. Our motorcycle accident lawyers know how to prove who was at fault and take all current and future expenses into account to accurately determine what your claim is worth.
Dealing with Motorcycle Insurance in New York
Although New York is a no-fault auto insurance state, motorcyclists are excluded from no-fault benefits. That means if you’re a motorcyclist who’s injured in an accident, you can’t rely on your own insurance to automatically cover medical expenses, lost wages, or other damages. However, if someone else was at fault for a crash, you may pursue damages through their insurer by filing a personal injury claim.
As your local, experienced injury attorneys, our team is well-versed in New York traffic and insurance laws. Unfortunately, even your own insurance company is not on your side and aims to pay as little as possible on motorcycle accident claims. Our injury lawyers are familiar with the tactics they employ. We handle all communications and negotiations with insurers and fight to obtain the fair compensation you need to protect your health and financial security.
Types of Damages in New York Motorcycle Accident Cases
If you’re injured because of someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to bear the burden alone. Our central New York injury attorneys can help you pursue motorcycle accident compensation for damages such as:
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of companionship and consortium
If an at-fault party’s behavior was particularly egregious or intentional, you may be entitled to pursue punitive damages as well. If you’ve lost a loved one in a crash, our motorcycle accident lawyers can evaluate your case and advise you on whether you have a viable wrongful death claim.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in New York
Knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident can protect your legal rights. After a crash, call 911 and move to a safe place if possible. Even if you feel okay, seek medical attention right away. Symptoms of serious injuries like internal bleeding and traumatic brain injury may not show up for hours or days. Visiting the emergency room can ensure you get the medical care you need and provide valuable evidence that supports a motorcycle accident claim.
If you’re able, document the scene by taking photos of damage to your bike and other vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries. Gather insurance information and get names and contact info of any witnesses.
Contact Our Central New York Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Do not give a statement to insurance company representatives, sign anything, or accept a settlement without talking to your local defenders at our injury law firm. Give us a call to set up a free case evaluation so we can determine the best course of action to help you recover motorcycle accident compensation. We’re happy to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t incur any up-front costs and attorneys’ fees are paid as a percentage of your settlement or award only if we win your case. We help you understand your rights and stand by your side every step of the way. Our injury lawyers have an established record of success and give you the best chance of a positive outcome for your case.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Central New York
With two convenient locations in East Syracuse and Rochester, our dedicated local attorneys at James Alexander Law have helped thousands of personal injury clients in central New York, the Southern Tier, and surrounding areas recover the motorcycle accident compensation they deserve. To schedule a free consultation with a central New York injury attorney, contact us or call 1-800-529-1333.
