Motorcyclists in Long Island face a unique set of challenges. A seemingly enjoyable trip can quickly turn into a devastating accident. With the frequency of motorcycle accidents in the area, victims often suffer serious injuries. Unlike drivers and passengers in motor vehicles, motorcyclists lack the same level of protection. This leaves them vulnerable to life-altering or even fatal injuries in the event of an accident.
At Dell & Dean, PLLC, we prioritize our clients’ well-being and strive to secure the maximum compensation for their personal injuries. With our extensive experience in representing victims of motorcycle accidents and a proven track record of recovering significant compensation, you can trust us to navigate the complexities of your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue the best possible outcome for you.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Long Island
Motorcycle accidents have many causes, but as with other traffic-related accidents, most are caused by negligence or recklessness. Motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles and more challenging to spot. When drivers of passenger vehicles don’t check their blind spots, they may not see a motorcyclist and sideswipe them while changing lanes. Motorcycles can also be challenging to notice when moving quickly and weaving in and out of traffic lanes.
Distracted and Intoxicated Drivers
As with other types of auto accidents, many motorcycle accidents are caused by distracted or intoxicated drivers. Drivers are more tempted than ever to watch a video, scroll through social media, or text while driving. Motorcycles are more difficult to spot than larger vehicles, and when a driver is distracted, they may collide with a motorcyclist before they even see the motorcyclist coming. Driving while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol can inhibit a driver’s perception and make it even more challenging to see motorcyclists and avoid colliding with them. Impaired, distracted, and tired drivers are less responsive and may be unable to maneuver quickly enough to avoid a dangerous collision.
Speeding Is a Common Cause of Motorcycle Accidents
When drivers don’t adhere to local speed limits, accidents can occur. Motorcyclists are more challenging to see even when all of the drivers around them are traveling at a safe speed. When one or more drivers are speeding, spotting motorcyclists and avoiding collisions is harder.
Even when the driver or motorcyclist identifies a threat, they cannot maneuver their vehicles safely if they are speeding. Motorcyclists are vulnerable because of a lack of protection. When a speeding vehicle collides with them, they are more likely to suffer serious or even fatal injuries.
Defective Motorcycles or Vehicles Can Cause Motorcycle Accidents
In some cases, motorcycle accidents aren’t caused by driver negligence but by defective vehicles or parts. When a motorcycle has been designed poorly, it’s more likely to become involved in a dangerous accident.
Similarly, if a manufacturing defect occurs, the motorcycle or its parts can become dangerous. Mechanics have a duty to repair and maintain motorcycles they work on safely. If they fail to notify owners of parts that need to be replaced, such as the brakes, and an accident occurs, owners may be able to hold the mechanics liable for their injuries.
Proving Liability in a Long Island Motorcycle Accident Claim
Recovering compensation after becoming injured in a motorcycle accident can be challenging. There are two main avenues to pursue compensation: an insurance claim and a personal injury lawsuit.
Recovering compensation requires victims to prove liability or that another person or company’s negligence caused the motorcycle accident. The attorneys at Dell & Dean, PLLC are prepared to investigate your case carefully, gather evidence, identify who was at fault, and pursue the most compensation possible.
What Types of Damages Are Available in Motorcycle Accident Claims
Victims of motorcycle accidents can pursue economic and non-economic damages for their injuries. Motorcycle accidents can lead to devastating, severe injuries. Victims may suffer severe injuries because of their lack of protection, even when they are wearing a helmet and other safety gear. Unlike cars and trucks, motorcycles don’t have the added protection of an enclosed vehicle or airbags to reduce the impact of an accident on their bodies.
Some of the most common injuries caused by motorcycle accidents include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, paralysis, bone fractures, road rash, head injuries, and neck injuries. Victims can also suffer from whiplash, lacerations, internal bleeding, facial disfigurement, and soft tissue damage to muscles and organs.
The attorneys at Dell & Dean, PLLC, have the resources and experience to carefully determine the total damages you’ve incurred and estimate your future damages. Under New York law, plaintiffs and personal injury lawsuits can pursue the following types of economic damages:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Physical therapy and Rehabilitation
- Lost income
- Lost earning capacity due to disability
Victims can also pursue non-economic damages for the pain and suffering they’ve endured, such as:
- Loss of consortium or personal relationship
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement
- Pain and suffering
Skillfully Negotiating with Insurance Companies
After being injured in a motorcycle accident, the most important thing you can do is receive medical attention right away. After you have received treatment, it’s beneficial to speak to an attorney. The insurance company may contact you immediately and offer a settlement amount, significantly if you’ve been seriously injured. They will try to reach the lowest settlement amount possible to save money, or they may try to deny your claim outright unfairly.
Before you accept an insurance company’s first offer, you must speak to an experienced attorney. At Dell & Dean, PLLC, we know how to negotiate aggressively with insurance companies and will protect you from being taken advantage of by them. We pursue the total amount of compensation you deserve.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Long Island & New York
When you work with Dell & Dean, PLLC, you can rest assured that we will handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on recovering from your injuries. Don’t hesitate to contact the New York motorcycle accident attorneys at Dell & Dean, PLLC to schedule a complimentary case evaluation.
Dell & Dean, PLLC, represents motorcycle accident victims throughout Nassau County and Suffolk County on Long Island, as well as the boroughs of New York City and the surrounding areas.
