Motorcycle Accidents in Binghamton

What To Expect

After a motorcycle accident, insurance companies often try to shift the blame onto motorcyclists. A knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer can address the legal challenges that arise. With a deep understanding of motorcycle accident law, your attorney can help you obtain necessary medical care, prove the other driver’s negligence, and guide you through the legal process. Whether your case is settled or goes to trial, your lawyer will work diligently to secure a fair settlement or represent you in court, ensuring your rights are fully protected.

What Should You Do?

Taking immediate steps after a motorcycle accident is vital for protecting your health and your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:

• Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by getting medical care, even if injuries seem minor. Documenting your injuries is crucial for your case.
• Report the Accident: Contact the police to file an official report. This documentation can be essential for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
• Gather Evidence: If possible, collect evidence at the scene, including photos, witness contact information, and details of the accident. This will help build your case.
• Avoid Admitting Fault: Don’t admit fault or discuss details of the accident with anyone other than your attorney.
• Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Quickly securing legal representation ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company but avoid giving detailed statements until you’ve consulted with your lawyer.
• Follow Through on Medical Treatment: Continue all prescribed treatments and keep records of your medical care. This will be important for your legal case.

By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself legally and ensure you’re on the right path to recovering the compensation you deserve.

Determining Fault in a Motorcycle Accident

Most motor vehicle accidents are caused by human error, such as distracted driving or failing to signal. In New York, victims of motorcycle accidents have the right to seek compensation from the person responsible for the crash. For instance, if a driver runs a red light and collides with a motorcyclist, causing serious injuries, the motorcyclist can file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver.

However, determining fault isn’t always straightforward. The motorcyclist must prove that the other driver acted negligently or recklessly and that this behavior directly caused the accident and resulting injuries. This often requires a thorough investigation, as multiple factors might contribute to the crash.

There are also cases where the motorcyclist might be at fault, such as speeding or not adhering to traffic laws. If the motorcyclist shares some of the blame, it could affect the compensation they receive, depending on the degree of fault. In situations where fault is uncertain, it’s crucial to work with an experienced lawyer who can meticulously analyze the evidence, investigate the accident’s circumstances, and determine liability. This approach ensures that all parties are held accountable and that the injured motorcyclist receives fair compensation.

New York’s Comparative Negligence Rule

You might wonder what happens if you were partially at fault for your injuries. In New York, the courts follow a pure comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you contributed to the accident, you can still receive compensation for your injuries. For example, if a jury determines that you were 10% at fault and the other driver was 90% at fault, you would be entitled to 90% of the total damages.

It’s vital to work with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who can effectively argue your case and minimize any fault attributed to you. This ensures you receive the maximum compensation you deserve, even if you share some responsibility for the accident.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents, like most vehicle accidents, are often the result of human error. Due to their smaller size, motorcycles are harder for drivers to notice, especially when drivers are distracted or not fully attentive. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Driver Distraction: Activities such as texting, calling, eating, drinking, daydreaming, or talking to passengers can divert attention away from the road.
• Driver Impairment: Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol significantly increases accident risk.
• Driver Fatigue: Tired or drowsy drivers may have slower reaction times and reduced awareness.
• Traffic Violations: Ignoring New York traffic signs and signals can lead to dangerous situations.
• Improper Signaling: Failure to signal properly when turning or changing lanes can cause collisions with motorcyclists.
• Insufficient Space: Not giving motorcyclists enough space on the road can result in accidents.
• Poor Weather or Traffic Conditions: Inadequate adjustments for bad weather or heavy traffic can increase the likelihood of accidents.

Understanding these factors can help in identifying fault and preventing future accidents.

Common Types of Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcyclists are highly susceptible to severe injuries in crashes due to the lack of a protective steel frame. Even minor accidents can have devastating effects. Common and serious motorcycle accident injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Damage to the brain caused by impact.
• Road Rash: Abrasions from sliding along the pavement.
• Fractures: Broken bones, such as ankles, wrists, and legs.
• Dislocations: Misalignment of joints due to impact.
• Organ Damage: Injury to internal organs from the force of the accident.
• Severe Burns: Burns resulting from contact with hot surfaces or fuel.
• Infections: Resulting from open wounds or road rash.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine that can lead to paralysis.
• Wrongful Death: In cases where the injuries result in fatality.

These injuries highlight the critical need for protective gear and prompt medical attention following an accident.

How Much is My Motorcycle Claim Worth?

When new clients ask about the value of their case, they often want to know how much they can expect to receive. Determining the exact worth of your claim is challenging as it depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the evidence of fault, and the long-term impact of your injuries.

During your initial consultation, we will review your documentation, discuss your injuries, and assess the medical treatment you’ll need. With our extensive legal experience, we will provide an estimate of your claim’s value. After a thorough investigation, we will collaborate with financial experts to calculate your future medical expenses and lost income. This information will help us negotiate effectively with the insurance company to secure the compensation you deserve.

Call A Binghamton Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Binghamton, our team is here to assist you. Contact Stanley Law Offices today for a free case evaluation!

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