Motorcyclists cruising the roads of New York must comply with the state’s motorcycle insurance requirements. Like all motor vehicle operators, motorcycle riders need proper insurance coverage to protect themselves, their passengers, and others on the road. However, motorcycle insurance in New York operates a bit differently compared to standard automobile insurance. Understanding these distinctions is key to ensuring you're fully protected in case of an accident.
At William Mattar Law Offices, we’re here to help motorcyclists understand their New York motorcycle insurance needs and what to do if an accident occurs. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, our motorcycle accident attorneys can provide guidance and advocate for your rights.
Table of contents
Understanding Motorcycle Insurance in New York
New York State requires all motor vehicles, including motorcycles, to carry liability insurance to operate legally on public roads. This liability insurance helps cover damages or injuries caused to others in an accident for which the motorcyclist is at fault. However, motorcycles are treated differently from other vehicles under New York’s no-fault insurance laws, which creates unique scenarios for motorcyclists involved in accidents.
New York’s No-Fault Insurance Law and Motorcycle Riders
New York is a no-fault insurance state, meaning that most drivers injured in car accidents can receive compensation for basic economic losses (certain limited medical expenses, lost wages, etc.) through their own insurance policy—regardless of who caused the accident. This helps streamline the claims process and limit lawsuits.
Motorcycles, however, are exempt from New York’s no-fault insurance system. This distinction has significant implications for riders when accidents occur:
The Pros
One potential advantage for injured motorcyclists is that they are not required to meet the "serious injury" threshold defined by the no-fault system to recover non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. Injured motorcyclists may claim compensation for pain and suffering right from the start, making it easier to pursue a full financial recovery in cases of injury.
The Cons
On the other hand, motorcyclists are not entitled to the automatic basic economic loss benefits that no-fault insurance provides, which can include up to $50,000 for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs. This means motorcyclists must generally look to other insurance coverage or legal options to recoup these expenses. Relying on health insurance, disability insurance, or suing the at-fault party are common strategies, but each comes with its own challenges and potential complications.
For injured motorcyclists, navigating these exceptions can be complicated. That’s why consulting a motorcycle accident lawyer can be a critical step in ensuring your rights are fully protected.
Key Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in New York
To legally operate a motorcycle in New York, you must meet specific motorcycle insurance requirements. The New York DMV mandates that motorcycles carry liability insurance, which provides financial protection in case you cause damage or injury to another person or their property in an accident.
Rules for Maintaining Coverage
Your motorcycle liability coverage must:
- Remain active as long as your motorcycle is registered, regardless of whether you use it regularly.
- Be issued through a New York State-authorized insurance provider. Out-of-state policies are not accepted.
- Match the name on your motorcycle registration. Discrepancies between your insurance and registration information could lead to penalties, including suspension of your registration or license.
An interesting aspect of New York motorcycle insurance is the flexibility for seasonal riders. Because all motorcycle registrations expire on April 30 each year, you are not required to surrender your license plate if you cancel your insurance during the off-season. This makes it easier for riders to store their motorcycles during the winter and reactivate coverage when they’re ready to hit the road again. However, a motorcycle may never be operated on public roads without liability insurance in effect.
Serious Injury and Legal Claims for Motorcyclists
Because motorcyclists are exempt from New York’s no-fault insurance laws, the rules surrounding legal claims for injuries can be more flexible. This means that motorcyclists may recover compensation for pain and suffering even for injuries that might not meet the no-fault system's definition of “serious injury.”
While car accident victims must meet one of these injury thresholds to claim pain and suffering damages, motorcyclists can pursue such claims immediately after an accident without these restrictions. However, without access to basic economic loss benefits, motorcyclists often rely on an attorney to help recover compensation for all expenses, from medical bills to lost income.
Why You Need a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
The days and weeks after a motorcycle accident can be complex. From understanding how motorcycle insurance requirements differ from car insurance to navigating the claims process, dealing with injuries, and addressing liens from medical or disability insurers, there’s a lot to manage.
This is where an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can make all the difference. At William Mattar Law Offices, we’re familiar with the unique challenges motorcyclists face in accidents. We can:
- Help you understand your New York motorcycle insurance policy and how it applies to your case.
- Work to recover compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages from the at fault motorist.
- Negotiate with insurance companies and resolve any liens that may arise.
Contact William Mattar Law Offices Today
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t face the legal and insurance complexities alone. The motorcycle accident lawyers at William Mattar, P.C. are here to help. Our team is committed to fighting for the rights of injured motorcyclists and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
With our No Fee Until We Win guarantee, you don’t pay us unless we’re successful in your case. Contact us today at (844) 444-4444 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. We’re here to answer your questions, explain your rights, and guide you through the process every step of the way.
Protect yourself, your passengers, and your peace of mind by understanding your New York motorcycle insurance and knowing who to turn to after an accident. At William Mattar, P.C. we’re dedicated to helping you get back on the road to recovery.