Experienced Rochester Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
The Rochester region offers plenty of beautiful sights and sounds. Whether you are on the shores of Lake Ontario, traveling around Irondequoit Bay, or exploring wine country in the Finger Lakes, there is so much to do in this vibrant part of New York State. For many people, there is no better way to see these sights than on the seat of a motorcycle.
A motorcycle can take you from here-to-there just like any other motor vehicle, while offering a unique chance to really immerse yourself in the environment. Unfortunately, a motorcycle does not offer the same protection that a car, truck, or sedan offers its occupants. Motorcyclists have less separating them from the roadway and its hazards. Other motorists may not understand that a collision with a motorcyclist, even a minor collision, can result in a grievous, life-changing injury to the motorcyclist.
Fortunately, there is no excuse. If someone fails to follow the rules of the road, seriously injuring a motorcyclist, that motorcyclist can make a claim against the at-fault driver. The attorneys at William Mattar law offices have experience doing just this on behalf of injured motorcyclists.
The Rochester motorcycle accident lawyers at William Mattar genuinely care about helping victims of negligent drivers receive the type of legal representation they deserve. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, call 844-noswap444-4444 today to schedule a free consultation.
How a Rochester Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident in the Rochester area, the experienced attorneys at William Mattar Law Offices can help you with the legal process and fight for the compensation you need. Our skilled motorcycle accident lawyers can assist you in several ways, including:
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible. The attorneys at William Mattar Law Offices have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies to ensure that our clients receive fair compensation for their injuries and damages.
We will handle all communication with the insurance companies on your behalf, protecting your rights and allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Gathering Evidence
To build a strong case, it is essential to gather all relevant evidence related to your motorcycle accident. This may include police reports, witness statements, medical records, and photographs of the accident scene.
The legal team at William Mattar Law Offices will thoroughly investigate your case, gathering the necessary evidence to support your claim and demonstrate the extent of your injuries and damages.
Representing Clients in Court
While many motorcycle accident claims are settled out of court, some cases may require litigation to achieve a fair outcome. The attorneys at William Mattar Law Offices are skilled litigators who are prepared to represent you in court if necessary.
We will present a compelling case on your behalf, advocating for your rights and working tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.
Providing Legal Guidance and Support
Navigating the legal system can be challenging and overwhelming, especially when dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of a motorcycle accident. The attorneys at William Mattar Law Offices will provide you with the legal guidance and support you need throughout the entire process.
We will explain your rights, discuss your options, and keep you informed about the progress of your case, ensuring that you feel confident and supported every step of the way.
Maximizing Your Compensation
The ultimate goal of the William Mattar Law Offices is to help you obtain the maximum compensation possible for your motorcycle accident claim. We will work to ensure that you are compensated for all of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term impacts on your quality of life. Our attorneys have a proven track record of success in securing significant settlements and verdicts for our clients.
If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident in the Rochester area, don't hesitate to contact the experienced attorneys at William Mattar Law Offices. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won't owe any attorney fees unless we win your case. Call us today at 844-noswap444-4444 to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
New York State Motorcycle Laws
Every motorcyclist should understand the New York State motorcycle laws that are in place to keep them, and others on the road, safe. Knowing and following applicable motorcycle laws may help you reduce your risk of being involved in a motorcycle crash.
These laws pertain to the training, equipment, and protective gear required to travel lawfully on New York roadways.
Motorcycle laws for New York State include the following:
- Motorcyclists must have a Class M or MJ Operator's License or Learner's Permit
- Only two motorcycles may operate side-by-side in a single lane of travel
- Motorcycle helmets and eye protection are required for all riders
- Use of daytime headlights is required
- Motorcycle helmet speakers can only have one earphone
- If carrying a passenger, a passenger seat and footrest are required
- Motorcycles must have a muffler
- Handlebars must be less than 15 inches above the driver’s seat
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Rochester
Motorcycle accidents are often the result of negligent actions by other drivers on the road, rather than the fault of the motorcyclist. Some of the most frequent causes of motorcycle accidents that are not the fault of the motorcyclist include:
1. Distracted Drivers: Motorcyclists are often put at risk by drivers who are not paying full attention to the road. When drivers engage in distracting activities like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio, they may fail to notice motorcyclists, leading to serious accidents.
2. Speeding Drivers: Drivers who exceed the speed limit create dangerous conditions for motorcyclists. When speeding, drivers have less time to react to the presence of motorcycles on the road, increasing the likelihood of a crash. Motorcyclists, who are more vulnerable than occupants of passenger vehicles, can suffer severe injuries as a result.
3. Failure to Yield by Other Drivers: Many motorcycle accidents occur when other drivers fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists. This can happen when drivers make left turns in front of oncoming motorcycles, pull out from side streets or driveways without properly checking for motorcycles, or change lanes without signaling or checking blind spots.
4. Impaired Drivers: Drunk or drugged drivers pose a significant threat to motorcyclists. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and decreased coordination, making them more likely to cause a crash, even if the motorcyclist is riding safely and responsibly.
5. Poorly Maintained Roads: Motorcyclists can face additional risks due to dangerous road conditions that are not their fault. Potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, and uneven pavement can cause motorcyclists to lose control of their bikes, potentially resulting in accidents.
6. Sudden Lane Changes by Drivers: Some drivers may change lanes abruptly without properly checking for the presence of motorcycles. This can startle motorcyclists and lead to collisions, even when the motorcyclist is riding lawfully and safely.
7. Driver Inexperience with Motorcycles: Many drivers lack experience in sharing the road with motorcycles and may not understand how to properly navigate around them. This inexperience can lead to misjudgments and errors that put motorcyclists at risk.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Even when a motorcyclist obeys traffic laws and wears the proper protective gear, motorcycle accidents that result in severe injury, can happen at any time. The type and severity of any potential injuries will depend on the circumstances. Motorcycle accident injuries can range from a serious traumatic brain injury to a broken bone.
Common motorcycle accident injuries include, but are not limited to:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI): One of the most severe injuries that a motorcycle rider can suffer is a TBI. Examples of TBIs include concussions, skull fractures, and contusions. Research done by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that wearing a safe and secure helmet, that fits properly, can reduce your risk of suffering head-related trauma.
- Spinal cord injury: Depending on several factors, motorcycle accidents can lead to serious spinal cord injuries. Motorcyclists who sustain a spinal cord injury may experience loss of movement, chronic pain, paralysis, or even death.
- Broken bones and fractures: In motorcycle crashes, bikers can suffer from broken bones and fractures. Common injuries include foot, leg, and arm fractures, torn ligaments, and broken limbs. In severe cases, a motorcyclist may even require an amputation to remove a limb. Impact with another vehicle, obstruction, or with the road itself can lead to this type of injury.
- Road rash: What is commonly referred to as “road rash” can occur when a motorcycle rider’s body strikes the ground or road. Different surfaces, such as pavement or gravel, can result in various bruises and abrasions, which may lead to infections or damage over time.
What Should I Expect if I’ve Been Injured in a Rochester Motorcycle Accident?
If you’ve been seriously injured in a Rochester motorcycle accident due to the someone else’s reckless driving, you may find yourself spending time in the hospital, unable to work and make a living, or struggling to do basic tasks.
It can also be difficult to know what to expect going forward. If this is your current situation, you may need a Rochester motorcycle accident attorney to begin working on your case as soon as possible. An experienced personal injury lawyer can take the guesswork out of how to proceed following a motorcycle crash.
They can look at the details of your case and make an assessment about the types of compensation you are entitled to receive. You can also speak with an accident attorney about how to plan for the long-term effects of a motorcycle crash.
If you’ve sustained an injury in a Rochester motorcycle accident, there are potential factors that you will want to consider:
- The costs of medical treatment for emergency and rehabilitation care
- Emotional or mental anguish such as stress and depression
- Lost wages due to taking time off work
- Quality of life is diminished due to serious injuries
- Chronic pain as a result of injuries
- The financial cost of replacing your motorcycle
Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accident Claims in New York
It's important for motorcycle accident victims to be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a claim. The statute of limitations is the legal time limit for initiating a lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
In New York, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including motorcycle accident claims, is three years from the date of the accident (N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 214). If a motorcyclist dies as a result of the accident, the family members or personal representative of the deceased have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim (N.Y. E.P.T.L. § 5-4.1).
Although you have three years to file a lawsuit, it is always best to act promptly following a motorcycle accident. By contacting an experienced Rochester motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible, you can help make sure that your rights are protected, evidence is preserved, and you can effectively navigate the insurance claims process.
Waiting too long to pursue your claim can make it more challenging to gather evidence, locate witnesses, and build a strong case. Therefore, if you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in New York, consult with an experienced Rochester motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and maximize your chances of obtaining fair compensation.
Contact an Experienced Rochester Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you've been seriously injured in a Rochester motorcycle accident and are looking for the best motorcycle accident for your case, consider contacting William Mattar law offices. Our experienced attorneys will review your case and fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 844-noswap444-4444 to schedule a free consultation.