West Hempstead Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcyclists may be far more likely to suffer catastrophic injuries than individuals traveling in traditional motor vehicles. Not only do many motorists fail to notice motorcycles, but bikers will often absorb the full force of the accident due to the lack of surrounding protection.

This may lead to severe road rash, burn injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, back injuries, and other catastrophic damages.

If you or someone you love has been critically injured in a motorcycle wreck, a top-rated West Hempstead motorcycle accident lawyer from Levine And Wiss, PLLC may be able to help you get through these trying times.

Our law office is available 24/7 to ensure we are there for you when you need us most. Contact your experienced West Hempstead personal injury lawyer at our firm today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about the next steps for your claim.

Insight into the Motorcycle Accident Claims Process

You may be worried about moving forward with your motorcycle accident claim. Working with a West Hempstead motorcycle accident attorney is one of the top ways to build confidence in your case. In the meantime, here is a brief overview of how motorcycle accident insurance claims and civil lawsuits for New York car accidents work:

• We begin by reviewing the evidence and investigating
• Next, we use the evidence to determine who is at fault
• We must calculate the value of your damages
• Our team prepares insurance claim filings and your civil lawsuit
• Your West Hempstead car accident lawyer negotiates with the insurance company on your behalf
• We bring your case to trial and demand maximum compensation in court

It is important to note that you may not need to file a personal injury lawsuit. If your insurance settlement is sufficient, taking further legal action may be unnecessary. However, if the at-fault party is uninsured or your settlement does not fully cover your damages, going forward with a personal injury claim may be in your best interests.

You Are Entitled to Full and Maximum Compensation for Your Damages 

You should not be forced to pay for even one penny of your damages if someone else is responsible for causing your motorcycle crash. Under Chapter 8 Civil Practice Law & Rules, you are entitled to total reimbursement for your economic and non-economic damages. Potentially recoverable losses could include:

• Medical bills
• Motorcycle repair costs
• Pain and suffering
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• The diminished value of your motorcycle
• Skin scarring or permanent disability
• Loss of household services
• Emotional distress

There is also the possibility that punitive damages will be awarded. While not a common award, punitive damages can be issued when the court system determines the defendant’s conduct should be punished further.

According to the Albany Law Review, punitive relief will only apply if the defendant was grossly negligent, intentionally malicious, or willfully egregious.

West Hempstead Motorcycle Accident FAQ

What Are the Motorcycle Helmet Laws in West Hempstead?

Motorcyclists and passengers are required to wear motorcycle helmets at all times, according to the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.

If you fail to do so, you could be cited and receive a $100 fine. Additionally, the liable party could attempt to use the state’s modified comparative negligence laws under Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) §1411 against you to reduce your settlement.

Is Lane Splitting Legal in New York State?

Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VAT) §1252, lane splitting is illegal in New York State. Motorcyclists are prohibited from driving between rows of vehicles or traffic lanes, as you may be at risk for a sideswipe or head-on collision on Long Island.

However, under the statute, motorcyclists are allowed to ride two bikers per lane or use the entire lane for a single motorcycle.

How Can I Hire a Lawyer if I’m Struggling? 

Plan to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer in West Hempstead on contingency. Our contingency agreements with Levine And Wiss, PLLC are written in accordance with 22 NYCRR §806.27, so you can breathe easier knowing you will never pay more in attorney’s fees than you receive in settlement funds.

We will not be paid for our legal fees or the costs of pursuing your case if we do not win. 

How Much Longer do I Have to File My Claim?

Your motorcycle accident lawsuit should be filed before the statute of limitations deadline. Under New York Civil Practice Laws & Rules §214, this is generally three years from the date the accident occurred.

Keep in mind, however, that limited circumstances could effectively pause the statute of limitations, which would give you more time to file your lawsuit.

Do I Need to Go to the Hospital After an Accident in West Hempstead?

You should obtain a medical evaluation and treatment as soon as possible after your accident. This is true even if your injuries do not seem severe. There are multiple top-rated hospitals, medical centers, and urgent care facilities near and around West Hempstead, NY.

Make sure you request copies of your medical records. We can use these as evidence to prove the severity of your injuries. Typically, the more impactful your injuries are, the more compensation you could expect to be awarded.

Turn to a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in West Hempstead You Can Count On 

The trauma of your motorcycle accident injuries may be profound and have a substantial impact on your life for years to come. But that does not mean you should be stuck covering the costs. When someone else is responsible for causing the injuries you sustained, you may be able to take civil action against them and demand full compensation for your damages.

A community-driven motorcycle accident attorney in West Hempstead from Levine And Wiss, PLLC is here to help you explore your legal options and bring the liable party to justice.

We have years of trial experience and are not afraid to take on the at-fault party. Have our team zealously advocate for your rights when you contact our law office to schedule a no-cost, risk-free consultation today.