When motorcycle crashes occur, the consequences can be catastrophic, even deadly. According to data from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, around 4,700 motorcycle crashes are reported in the state each year, with nearly 85 percent of those collisions resulting in at least one injury.
At Richmond Vona, LLC, our Buffalo motorcycle accident lawyers advocate for the rights of injured victims and their family members, representing them in sometimes very difficult odds against insurance companies. If you or your loved one was involved in a motorcycle accident, we can help you fight to obtain the justice and financial recovery you deserve. Over the years, we have successfully recovered hundreds of millions of dollars on behalf of injured individuals and their families throughout Western New York. Reach out to our diligent personal injury attorneys today.
Understanding New York’s No Fault Insurance Regulations
New York maintains expansive no-fault regulations, which require that drivers of motor vehicles maintain no-fault insurance and bar such drivers from filing a claim against an at-fault party for compensation unless they have suffered severe injuries.
However, it is important to note that statutory language in New York explicitly states that motorcycles are not defined as motor vehicles; as such, a motorcyclist is not covered under no-fault laws and does not need to meet the serious injury threshold in order to pursue a claim against another driver. Rather than carrying no-fault coverage, motorcyclists are required to maintain liability insurance coverage to pay for damages to others in crashes that they cause. If another party is to blame, then the motorcyclist maintains the right to file a claim directly against the at-fault driver’s liability insurance policy.
Under New York law, motorcycle accident victims can step outside of the no-fault insurance system and file a lawsuit directly against the responsible driver, regardless of whether or not their injuries are severe. Severe injuries are likely, as, unfortunately, motorcyclists are inherently exposed and are at a higher risk of sustaining serious injuries in a collision.
However, it is important to note that statutory language in New York explicitly states that motorcycles are not defined as motor vehicles; as such, a motorcyclist is not covered under no-fault laws, and does not need to meet the serious injury threshold in order to pursue a claim against another driver. Rather than carrying no-fault coverage, motorcyclists are required to maintain liability insurance coverage to pay for damages to others in crashes that they cause. If another party is to blame, then the motorcyclist maintains the right to file a claim directly against the at-fault driver’s liability insurance policy. A Buffalo motorcycle accident attorney could help ensure these concepts are understood.
Under New York law, motorcycle accident victims can step outside of the no-fault insurance system and file a lawsuit directly against the responsible driver, regardless of whether or not their injuries are severe. Severe injuries are likely, as, unfortunately, motorcyclists are inherently exposed and are at a higher risk of sustaining serious injuries in a collision, but they are not required for you to file a claim.
Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Victims
Through a motorcycle accident claim, injured victims can recover compensation for the complete value of their damages. Unfortunately, this is often challenging; insurance companies are aggressive in handling these cases. Typically, they will try to quickly resolve the matter for the lowest amount possible.
At Richmond Vona, LLC, our Buffalo motorcycle collision attorneys are committed to helping our clients obtain full and fair compensation for:
- Ambulance fees and emergency room care
- Medical bills and related costs
- Rehabilitative services
- Lost wages
- Diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disfigurement
- Permanent physical impairments
- Loss of life enjoyment
In the event that a motorcyclist dies due to their injuries, eligible surviving family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit and seek compensation for losses such as medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, value of household services, and loss of love, companionship, guidance, and support.
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John Richmond and the team at Richmond Vona did an incredible job with my complicated personal injury case. They made sure no stone was unturned and got me the settlement I deserved for my situation. They treat you well, explain everything you need to know and more so you are always in the loop about the status of your case. John was easy to get in touch with anytime during the process and made signing paperwork easy and understandable. Their entire staff is professional and helpful throughout the process These guys are fair, trustworthy, and will stand up for you!
This firm’s attention to detail is second to none. It’s evident that they are true professionals and really care about their injured clients. This is the firm to call if you have been seriously injured due to someone else’s negligence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Wrecks
Q: What is the statute of limitations for a motorcycle accident in New York?
A: Under New York law (N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 214), motorcycle accident claims are governed by a three-year statute of limitations. If you fail to file your injury claim before the deadline expires, you could be prevented from bringing one at all.
Q: Can I still bring a personal injury claim if I wasn’t wearing a motorcycle helmet?
A: New York law requires motorcyclists to wear approved motorcycle helmets. If you get into a crash while not wearing a helmet, you still have the right to bring a motorcycle accident injury claim. However, under New York’s comparative fault law, your compensation might be reduced, as you could be considered partially negligent.
Q: Can a motorcycle manufacturer be held liable for a crash?
A: Motorcycle manufacturers and motorcycle parts makers can be held liable for a crash that was caused by or made worse by their negligence. If you believe that a problem with your motorcycle contributed to your accident, contact an experienced Buffalo motorcycle accident attorney right away.
Reach Out to a Buffalo Motorcycle Accident Attorney for the Legal Help You Need
At Richmond Vona, LLC, our Buffalo motorcycle accident lawyers are committed to providing high quality, fully personalized legal representation to injured victims. If you or your family member was injured in a motorcycle crash, we can help. Call us now for a free initial case review. From our Buffalo law office, we represent motorcycle accident victims throughout Western New York, including in Erie County, Genesee County, and Cattaraugus County.
