Motorcycle Accident Lawyer after a NYC Crash
A motorcycle accident lawyer helps injured riders recover money from at-fault drivers and their insurers. That help matters in New York because riders are excluded from no-fault first party benefits under New York Insurance Law Section 5103, so medical bills and lost wages usually must be pursued through a claim against the at-fault driver. William Mattar, P.C. is a New York State firm founded in 1990 that handles motor vehicle accident cases only, serving New York riders. A motorcyclist can end up in a serious motorcycle crash for many potential reasons. Maybe they were sideswiped by a speeding motorist, or were tripped by debris on a narrow road. Whatever the circumstances— the results can be devastating.
Some NYC motorcyclists, who are struck by vehicles and sustain serious injuries, choose to handle their case alone, believing that they can save money on attorney’s fees. Failing to consult a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after a motorcycle crash may complicate and delay your case. Individuals without legal experience may not realize how much paperwork is involved in managing a personal injury case. There is also the stress of recovering from injuries, missing work, and finances.
If you were on a motorcycle, and were hit by a negligent driver in New York City, don’t wait to schedule your free consultation with William Mattar, P.C. We have been helping motorcyclists obtain fair compensation in personal injury cases for over 30 years. Get in touch with our legal team today by calling 844-444-4444.
What does a Motorcycle Accident Attorney do after a NYC Crash?
Motorcycle accident lawyers take on many duties for a personal injury case. They must have the applicable knowledge of subjects such as court-mandated guidelines and the required documentation. In addition, an accident attorney will help collect the evidence necessary to build your legal case.
For a NYC case, a motorcycle crash injury attorney must generally:
- Collect evidence essential to support your claim;
- Talk to witnesses (if any), and obtain affidavits and statements;
- Communicate with the defendant’s insurance company and attorneys;
- File a lawsuit when insurance companies refuse to agree to an adequate compensation payment;
- Respond to motions or requests for relief from the court brought by defendant’s attorneys; and
- Draft legal briefs for review by the court.
Waiting to contact an accident attorney may delay your ability to obtain compensation for your injuries. Let us do the work while you recover.
Types of NYC Motorcycle Accident Cases
At William Mattar, P.C. we handle a variety of motorcycle-related accident cases in New York City. Motorcycle crashes often occur when a driver, who is reckless or inattentive, strikes a motorcyclist. In these cases, the at-fault driver’s negligence may be the cause of the motorcycle accident and any resulting injuries.
Some NYC motorcycle accident cases involve aggressive driving, such as road rage, speeding, tailgating, distracted driving, and drunk driving. Other motorcycle accidents may involve poorly maintained or hazardous roads, defective motorbike parts, and inaccurate or poorly marked streets. Left-turn crashes are especially common. Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1141, a driver turning left must yield the right of way to oncoming traffic that is close enough to be an immediate hazard, and a violation can help establish the driver's negligence.
A motorcycle injury attorney can examine the details of your case to help determine the best possible outcome.
Why are New York City Motorcycle Riders Prone to Injury?
Motorcyclists are less protected from harm than drivers of other types of vehicles. What may not affect the motorist of a truck could be catastrophic for a motorcycle rider. As a result, motorcyclists often suffer severe injuries in motor vehicle accidents, such as traumatic brain injuries. These injuries can require a long recovery, or even become a life-long disability.
There are a few reasons why NYC bikers are at an increased risk of injury:
- Congested NYC streets: NYC is a dense, urban area where residents live, and drive, in close proximity to each other. Traffic congestion and hazards, such as potholes, can pose a serious risk to vulnerable bikers.
- Two wheels: The majority of motorcycles have two wheels, rather than three or four, which can contribute to instability. According to traffic data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, two-wheeled motorbikes account for 91 percent of motorcycles involved in fatal collisions.
- Physically exposed to the environment: Unlike automobiles, motorcycles do not have a protective metal frame, or the safety features that accompany an automobile’s frame. This leaves bikers unshielded from the road and any potential dangers.
- Less visible: Bikers are often less visible to other motorists while riding on NYC roads because motorcycles are smaller than other types of motor vehicles. As a result, motorcycle crashes often occur when a motorist does not see a biker in his or her blind spot, and makes a mistaken turn or lane change.
Motorcycle crash victims have seen firsthand how motorcyclists can be at a safety disadvantage on the road. It is important that you have a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer on your side to fight for your recovery in the event of a motorcycle collision.
Medical Treatment after a NYC Motorcycle Accident Injury
If you have been seriously injured in a NYC motorcycle crash, you may have a long road of recovery ahead. You may be wondering about the types of treatment accident victims may need, and how much it will cost. Both of these factors will depend on the severity of your injuries and the amount of time you will need for recovery.
Medical treatment for a motorcycle injury may include:
- Short-term treatment: Minor injuries, such as broken bones and cuts, may only require short-term medical treatment that will likely not required an extended hospital stay. This level of treatment can result in medical expenses and lost wages as a result of being unable to work for a period of time.
- Long-term treatment: Serious injuries, such as fractures and internal damage, may require a longer hospital stay and extensive medical care. The cost of recovery for a serious injury can add up quickly, leaving an injured motorcyclist with mounting medical bills and a lack of income.
- Physical rehabilitation: After serious—or even minor—injuries, motorcycle accident victims may require some form of physical therapy to fully recover. Physical therapy is often a recurring cost that can stretch over weeks or even months, depending on the nature of your injury.
- Life-long care: Motorcycle accidents can cause permanent conditions and disabilities. These injuries may require life-long treatment, and a complete change in one’s lifestyle as a result of physical limitations.
The reality of suffering a serious motorcycle injury, especially a life-long injury, can be difficult to comprehend. Medical expenses may not be the only overwhelming factor for motorcycle accident victims as they may also experience acute pain and suffering, including emotional anguish, following their motorcycle crash. An experienced accident attorney can help determine the anticipated costs of your medical treatment, and fight to get you the compensation you need.
FAQ About NYC Motorcycle Accident Claims
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in New York?
Most personal injury lawsuits must be filed within three years of the crash under CPLR Section 214. Claims against a city or other government entity involve much shorter notice deadlines, so it is safest to speak with an attorney soon after the crash.
Does no-fault insurance cover motorcycle riders in New York?
No. New York Insurance Law Section 5103 excludes people riding motorcycles from no-fault first party benefits, so your own auto policy does not automatically pay your medical bills or lost wages. Those losses are usually pursued through a liability claim against the at-fault driver.
Can I recover damages if I was partly at fault for my motorcycle crash?
Often yes. Under CPLR Section 1411, fault assigned to you reduces your damages in proportion to your share of the blame, and a 2026 amendment to the statute can bar recovery in some claims when the injured person's share of fault is greater than the defendant's. An attorney can explain how the rule applies to your case.
How much does a motorcycle accident lawyer cost at William Mattar?
Like most personal injury law firms, the firm works on a contingency fee under its No Fee Until We Win policy, so there is no upfront attorney fee and no fee unless the firm wins or settles your case. The firm works on a contingency fee basis. Free case evaluations are available 24 hours a day at (844) 444-4444.
How much is a NYC motorcycle accident case worth?
There is no standard amount. A motorcycle claim's value depends on how serious the injuries are, medical costs, lost income, who was at fault and how much insurance is available. William Mattar Accident Lawyers has secured a $1,750,000.00 settlement in a motorcycle accident case.
Past performance does not guarantee future results, including financial results or client satisfaction.
Contact an Experienced NYC Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you are looking for one of the best New York City motorcycle accident attorneys to handle your case, consider contacting William Mattar law offices. At our firm, we fight for motorcyclists’ rights and do everything we can to get maximum compensation for our clients. Let us begin evaluating your case—schedule an appointment with a motorcycle accident lawyer today. Call 844-noswap444-4444, or fill out our online form for your free consultation.