Motorcycles are affordable and convenient for getting around. Many people in New York, including those in The Bronx, choose motorcycles as their preferred mode of transportation.
The U. S. motorcycle registration by 2021 was 9.89 million units in the United States. Of course, they are intended for different uses, such as private and commercial transportation.
Motorcycle accidents are very bad because the driver doesn't have much protection. If you or someone you know had this accident, it is best to seek legal assistance. Our skilled motorcycle accident lawyers in the Bronx can help you.
The Ward Law Group can provide high-quality assistance on your case.
Motorcycle Accident Laws in the Bronx
Motorcycle accidents in the Bronx require knowledge of safety and legal protection laws. Riders and drivers should know these regulations to safeguard themselves and their rights after an accident.
Both motorcyclists and drivers need to know these laws to avoid accidents and deal with legal issues. Our motorcycle accident lawyers in the Bronx at The Ward Law Group are experts on these laws.
Here are some of the critical laws and regulations relevant to motorcycle accidents in the Bronx:
Traffic Laws:
Motorcyclists in the Bronx must adhere to all applicable traffic laws, just like drivers of any other vehicle. This includes obeying speed limits, stopping at stop signs and red lights, using turn signals, and following lane markings.
Not obeying traffic laws can lead to traffic violations and affect who is at fault in an accident.
Helmet Requirements:
In New York, motorcyclists and passengers must wear helmets that meet safety standards set by the Motor Vehicles Commissioner.
Wearing a good helmet is important to lower the chance of head injuries and save lives during accidents.
Not wearing an approved helmet can result in fines and also affect personal injury claims. There are helmet safety standards, and motorcycle riders should wear proper helmets.
Motorist Responsibilities:
Drivers of other vehicles in the Bronx are responsible for sharing the road safely with motorcyclists. They must remain attentive, check their blind spots regularly, and provide adequate space for motorcycles.
Negligent or reckless driving behavior by other motorists can lead to accidents and severe injuries for motorcyclists.
Lane Splitting:
Lane splitting, the practice of riding a motorcycle between lanes of traffic, is illegal in New York State.
Motorcyclists must stay within their designated lane and follow the same traffic rules as other vehicles. Engaging in lane splitting can lead to accidents and potential legal consequences.
No-Fault Insurance:
It is important to note that New York's no-fault insurance laws do not apply to motorcycle accidents. Unlike car accidents, motorcyclists are not subject to the same restrictions on seeking compensation from at-fault parties.
Injured motorcyclists can sue careless drivers for compensation for their injuries and losses.
Comparative Negligence:
New York follows a comparative negligence system, which means that if a motorcyclist is partially at fault for an accident, their compensation may be reduced proportionally.
If the motorcyclist is not mostly at fault, they can still get money for their injuries and damages.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in the Bronx
Motorcycle crashes in the Bronx happen for different reasons, often because of the distinct nature of riding a motorcycle.
Understanding these common causes can help motorcyclists and other road users take necessary precautions to prevent accidents. Here are some typical scenarios that often lead to motorcycle accidents in the Bronx:
Collisions with Other Vehicles:
One of the most prevalent causes of motorcycle accidents is collisions with other vehicles. Motorcycles are harder to see than cars and trucks, so other drivers might not notice them.
Many accidents happen when drivers don't give way to motorcycles or fail to check blind spots before changing lanes.
Road Hazards:
Hazardous road conditions can pose significant risks to motorcyclists. Potholes, debris, oil spills, and uneven pavement can cause a motorcycle to lose traction and stability, leading to accidents.
Poor road maintenance and a lack of warning signs for hazards can contribute to these accidents.
Driver Negligence:
Speeding, distractions, and drunk/drugged driving are dangerous for motorcyclists.
These actions make it harder for drivers to react quickly and avoid hitting motorcycles, leading to bad outcomes.
Lane Splitting Accidents:
While lane splitting is illegal in New York, some motorcyclists may still attempt it, especially in heavy traffic.
Lane-splitting accidents happen when motorcycles go between lanes and hit other vehicles or get hit by car doors.
Sudden Stops:
Motorcycles have shorter stopping distances than cars; other drivers may not anticipate this difference.
When a motorcyclist suddenly stops in front of a vehicle, it can be challenging for the driver to brake to avoid a collision. That's why all drivers are encouraged to respect the space between cars to let them have enough space to brake.
Dangerous Intersections:
Intersections can be high-risk areas for motorcycle accidents. Failure to yield right-of-way, running red lights, and improper turns by drivers can result in serious accidents involving motorcycles.
Types of Injuries in Bronx Motorcycle Accidents
Most of the time, accidents involving motorcycles have severe consequences for the rider. Because of their lack of protection compared to car drivers, they can easily sustain serious injuries that can bring life-changing results.
Riders must wear appropriate gear to reduce injuries in motorcycle accidents. This includes jackets, boots, gloves, eye protection, and reflective clothing.
The type of injuries that riders commonly get when they are involved in a traffic accident are:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injury
- Broken bones
- Burn injuries
- Whiplash
- Lacerations
- Concussions
- Friction burns
- Internal damage
- Amputations
Depending on the speed and the other vehicle's dimensions and weight, the injuries sustained can range from minor to highly severe ones that lead to death.
Liability On Bronx Motorcycle Accidents
When there is an accident, a crew of experts usually works on the accident scene to recreate it. By checking the circumstances of the wreck and tire marks over the asphalt, they can determine who the at-fault party was.
A Bronx motorcycle accident attorney will check all the evidence with these experts and even collaborate with them to get the real liable party. You need a lawyer's help to feel secure that there will be an expert to make a strong argument for you.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in the Bronx
Experiencing a motorcycle accident in the Bronx can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience.
However, taking the proper steps immediately after the accident is crucial to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Here is a step-by-step guide for individuals involved in a motorcycle accident:
Ensure Safety:
The priority after a motorcycle accident is to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Check yourself and others for injuries and move to a safe location. If anyone is seriously injured, call for emergency medical assistance immediately.
Contact the Police:
Regardless of the accident's severity, it is essential to report the incident to the police. Request that a police officer come to the scene to file an official accident report. This report will be crucial when filing an insurance claim or seeking legal action later.
Gather Evidence:
If you can do so safely, gather evidence from the accident scene. Take photos of the vehicles' positions, damage, skid marks, and visible injuries. Collect the contact information of all parties involved and any witnesses present at the scene.
Seek Medical Attention:
Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not manifest immediately, and a medical evaluation can document any injuries and their severity, which is essential for a personal injury claim.
Do Not Admit Fault:
Avoid making statements that may be interpreted as admitting fault for the accident. Stick to the facts when speaking with the police, other parties involved, or insurance representatives.
Preserve Evidence:
Preserve any accident evidence, such as damaged motorcycle parts, clothing, or protective gear. Do not repair or dispose of any items until you consult a personal injury lawyer.
Consult a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer:
A lawyer can protect your rights, help with claims, and ensure you get fair compensation for injuries and damages.
Notify Your Insurance Company:
Notify your insurance company about the accident promptly. However, avoid providing detailed statements without consulting a lawyer first.
Contact a Bronx Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Your best option after sustaining severe injuries in a motorcycle accident is to have expert advice from the best motorcycle accident lawyer. You may be suffering from extreme pain or paralysis due to the accident.
These stressful circumstances make you vulnerable, but you can count on the expertise of our highly qualified Bronx motorcycle accident attorneys at The Ward Law Group.
In 12 years, we have won many cases and received millions of dollars in damages for our clients, proving our success. If you have any concerns or questions, do not hesitate to call 855-DOLOR-55; one of our specialists will answer you immediately.
Remember that we won't charge you any fee until we win fair compensation for you. Contact us as soon as possible so we can bring justice to you.