Motorcyclists are highly susceptible to serious injuries because motorcycles provide much less protection than cars and other motor vehicles. Another problem in these types of cases is that motorcycles have a negative perception to much of the public because of their dangers and the belief that motorcyclists drive recklessly.
With so much at stake, it may be helpful to consult with a Commack motorcycle accident lawyer. Failing to consult with a dedicated Long Island motorcycle accident attorney could mean that you miss out on the chance to be compensated for your severe injuries. Skilled legal assistance could more effectively present your case and pursue a positive resolution.
Frequent Injuries to Motorcyclists
Motorcycles present many dangers, especially in an accident, due to the lack of protection offered to riders. A qualified motorcycle crash attorney in Commack understands that an accident that may be minor between two cars can lead to death if a motorcycle is involved.
As a result, many motorcycle accidents often produce catastrophic injuries to vital parts of the body and head. There are many reasons why motorcycles present increased dangers in an accident, but the main reasons are:
The danger of being hit by other vehicles and the road
The motorbike is smaller and lighter, causing it to take greater damage
They are less maneuverable than other vehicles
Other drivers’ lack of attention to motorcycles on the roadway – especially when making a left-hand turn
The motorcycle itself is not the only danger leading to severe accidents. Something as minor as a small pothole or a poorly maintained road can present far more hazards to a person riding a motorcycle.
Motorcycle Insurance Rules
New York requires a person to first obtain the necessary license to operate a motorcycle within the state. They also require the motorcyclist to have at least the minimum motorcycle liability coverage. The New York motorcycle insurance minimums include:
$10,000 for property damage
$25,000 for bodily injury for one person
$50,000 for bodily injury for two or more persons
$50,000 for death coverage for one person
$100,000 for death coverage for two or more persons
Although these minimum amounts will legally permit someone to operate their motorcycle, the minimums may not adequately cover the damages and injuries that many accidents cause. A Commack motorcycle accident lawyer could help clarify how the insurance minimums affect recovery of damages.
Is a Motorcycle Subject to the No-Fault Insurance Law?
New York follows the no-fault insurance law for car accidents, which means that medical expenses and other costs sustained from the accident are paid by the insurance companies regardless of fault. However, this law does not apply to motorcyclists in Commack since motorcycles are not covered under the definition of motor vehicles due to their inherent dangers (NY ISC § 5102).
As an excluded motor vehicle under the New York insurance laws, a motorcyclist does not receive the initial protections of knowing that medical treatment will be covered, which makes carrying the necessary motorcycle insurance crucial. One benefit afforded to motorcyclists is that they are not subject to the serious injury requirement that other drivers must meet.
Understanding the local insurance laws is crucial. A motorcycle crash attorney in Commack could help ensure that the proper insurance procedures are followed and requirements are met.
Other Commack Practice Areas
Contact a Commack Motorcycle Accident Attorney for Guidance
If you sustained serious injuries following a motorcycle accident, you may not want to wait to seek out assistance. Phone calls from insurance companies and investigators will start immediately, and bills will soon start to pile up. A Commack motorcycle accident lawyer who is well-versed in all aspects of motorcycle accident law could review your case and present options to fight for your best interests. Call today to schedule your introductory case consultation to explore your options.