Motorcycle Crashes - “Look Twice, Save a Life”

Most motorcycle riders are aware that they are much more at risk on the road than other motorists. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) claims that motorcycle riders are 26 times more likely to die in a traffic collision and 5 times more likely to be injured than a passenger in a car, truck, or another enclosed vehicle. Motorcyclists are over 20 times more likely to be in an accident than other motorists. That’s a statistic, along with the numbers cited above, that every New Yorker should know before getting on a motorcycle. Even people who walk away from a motorcycle accident will likely have some injuries. Sadly, too often, motorists die or suffer severe life-changing injuries as a result of a motorcycle crash.

The truth is that most motorcycle accidents are avoidable. Negligent drivers are one of the most common causes of motorcycle crashes. It might seem obvious that a driver should be careful when changing lanes, but unfortunately, many drivers do not check their blind spot and assume they can make a lane change safely. The driver of a larger vehicle may not anticipate the speed and nimbleness of a motorcyclist and may not carefully check an adjacent lane or may misjudge how fast a motorcyclist is approaching from behind before changing lanes. Other motor vehicle drivers cause accidents by speeding; aggressive driving; distracted driving; and/or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Driving a motorcycle presents unique challenges to the driver. Any sort of collision or careless driving from other drivers puts them in danger. Drivers must drive carefully and respect others on the road, especially motorcyclists.

With over 8 million Americans owning motorcycles, motorcycle accidents tend to be worse than car accidents and even more complicated when making financial claims. Motorcycles are not considered motor vehicles within the meaning of New York’s no-fault law, which means you do not need to meet the “serious injury” threshold to bring a claim for damages. If you have suffered injuries in this kind of crash, the skillful Syracuse motorcycle accident and personal injury attorneys of DeFrancisco & Falgiatano can assess your potential legal claims. We also have satellite offices throughout Upstate, New York for your convenience.

Common injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents include broken bones that may require the surgical placement of pins, rods, and screws. Unfortunately, several surgeries may be needed, along with months of physical therapy. Other potential injuries include spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, and road rash. The severity and nature of the injuries will determine the damages that you can recover. Damages may include both economic and noneconomic losses. Economic losses are tangible losses, such as medical bills, lost income, replacement services, and out-of-pocket costs. Noneconomic damages that you may be able to recover include pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment, and loss of consortium. Even if they get medical treatment, motorcyclists may still be left with physical limitations, impairments, paralysis, scarring, and other difficulties.

After a motorcycle accident, victims should not underestimate the mental impacts that they could suffer as well. Oftentimes, people who have been through traumatic events such as a motorcycle accident may need mental health support. Your motorcycle accident and personal injury lawyer at DeFrancisco & Falgiatano may suggest that you make sure that your mental health is also addressed in your treatment plan so that you can get repayment for expenses related to therapy and medications. Some motorcyclists may never be able to get back on their bikes again simply because of how terrifying the entire experience was. We understand both the physical and mental impacts of being hit by a car. We have seen the way our clients’ lives have changed for the worse because a driver wasn’t paying attention like they should have been. You can trust that the motorcycle accident and personal injury lawyers at DeFrancisco & Falgiatano are knowledgeable, and always have your best interest in mind.

In the state of New York, the statute of limitations for most personal injury lawsuits is three years. If a motorcycle crash results in a fatality, families will have just two years to file a wrongful death action. There are times when a different time limit may apply. However, these are the exception, not the rule. It is important to make sure that you meet the deadline for your specific case or you may forever forfeit the right to get the money you need for your injuries.

If you have suffered from injuries after a motorcycle accident, you may be able to make a claim for financial compensation to pay for medical expenses. However, as we said, motorcycle accidents present unique challenges. Most people usually stereotype motorcyclists as careless drivers, and you may find that insurance companies typically offer a lower amount to the injured party. That’s why it is essential to find an attorney experienced in motorcycle accidents. At DeFrancisco & Falgiatano, our experienced motorcycle accident and personal injury attorneys may be able to help.

Getting fair treatment and compensation after a motorcycle accident is anything but simple. You need a motorcycle accident and personal injury lawyer in your corner with a proven track record in going up against insurance companies. If you have been injured or someone you love has lost their life in a motorcycle crash, contact the award-winning, professionals at DeFrancisco & Falgiatano personal injury attorneys who can advise you about your rights. We represent injured motorcyclists and their families in Syracuse, Rochester, and throughout Upstate New York, including in areas such as Utica, Canandaigua, Binghamton, Cooperstown, Lyons, Elmira, Wampsville, Auburn, Herkimer, Oneida, Oswego, Ithaca, Watertown, and Lowville. Please call us at 833-200-2000 or contact us via our online form.