According to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 4,976 people died as a result of motorcycle accidents in 2015 in the United States. This is an increase of 8.3% from 4,594 in 2014. In 2015, there were 88,000 motorcyclists who were injured in crashes. Additionally, in 2014, it was reported that motorcyclists in the US were 27 times more likely to die in a crash per vehicle mile travelled than occupants of passenger cars, and also 5 times more likely to be injured.
Common Questions about Motorcycle Accidents
People in New York have many questions about motorcycle crashes and the legal options they have after being injured in one. Here is a look at some of those questions:
Q1: What are the types of financial damages after a motorcycle accident?
A: If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash, you may be eligible to pursue compensation for damages, such as present and future medical bills, pain and suffering and loss of income and/or earning capacity. It is important to know what types of compensation you can expect as it can help you in avoiding settling for less than you deserve. Because each case differs, it is also important to consult with an experienced lawyer who can determine the exact damages pursuable in your case.
Q2: How do I get my lost wages and get my income paid if I am unable to work?
A: If you have a severe injury that prevents you from going back to work, you may seek compensation from the driver responsible for the accident for your lost wages and/or capacity to earn. The amount you receive will depend on how severe your injuries are. Again, it is best to talk to a legal counselor to find out what you can expect from a personal injury lawsuit.
Q3: What does “comparative negligence” mean?
A: Comparative negligence is when fault is apportioned among the drivers involved in a traffic accident. It is based on the degree of both parties’ carelessness and negligence that contributed to the crash. In cases that involve a motorcycle, a simple example of comparative negligence is instances where the motorcycle’s taillight, brake light or headlight is out, especially if the accident took place at night.
Q4: I was not wearing a helmet when the accident occurred. Can I still recover damages?
A: Even if there is a mandatory helmet law in the state you live in, your failure to comply with it may not prevent you from recovering damages if a third party knocked you down. Depending on the city that you live in, the issue may be relevant to damage amount you will be compensated for if it is shown that your failure to wear a helmet played a role in the injuries you sustained.
Get Legal Help in New York for Motorcycle Accidents
If you or a loved one in New York has been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you should immediately seek the help of the reliable personal injury attorneys at Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff, & Wolff of RMFW Law at 212-344-1000. We know how to win these types of cases. This is our bread and butter. RMFW Law has won millions of dollars for past clients and you can be on this amazing list. You need to call us though! What is your side of the story? What really happened? The first meeting with us is free. RMFW Law is not paid until you are paid so really, in essence, not only do we want to win as badly as you do you never really have to write us a check since we only take a percentage of the final verdict or settlement. We will not settle or make any major decisions without your approval. Call RMFW Law now!