Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Rochester, NY
Riding a motorcycle is a beautiful pastime for thousands of Americans. Unfortunately, operating a motorcycle comes with a variety of risks, as they have much less protection than the average car that’s driving next to them. Because of this, motorcycle accidents often come with catastrophic injuries and severe property damage. If you were involved in a motorcycle accident in the Rochester area, a Rochester motorcycle accident lawyer from our firm can fight for you.
Your Rochester Motorcycle Accident Team
Trying to recover after a motorcycle accident is already hard enough, let alone when you’re trying to navigate the legal complexities of filing a claim on your own. At Gattuso & Ciotoli, PLLC, our skilled personal injury lawyers share over 60 years of experience and are devoted to securing justice for victims of motorcycle accidents in New York. We work tirelessly to investigate each case that we take on and secure the compensation you need.
Understanding Motorcycle Accident Laws in New York
Motorcyclists in New York must follow both state and federal laws dictating the operation of their vehicles. This includes following the standard traffic laws of each state and city they drive through.
For example, New York law mandates that all motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, and motor scooter operators and passengers wear a helmet. This helmet must meet federal safety standards and be securely fastened and in good condition. Non-compliance can lead to fines and penalties, and can impact personal injury claims and insurance in the event of an accident. However, not every state has a helmet law, which is why understanding how laws change across borders is crucial.
New York is also a comparative negligence state. This means that if more than one party is at fault for an accident, your settlement may be reduced by your own degree of fault and by each party’s percentage of liability. Knowledge of these laws can help you better understand your rights when filing a claim and what the other party may have been required to do to avoid your accident.
Motorcycle Accident Injuries
In 2022, the fatality rate for motorcyclists in New York was 22 times higher than it was for passengers in automobiles. Unfortunately, fatalities and severe injuries are much more common in motorcycle accidents due to the lack of protection the vehicles offer drivers. Even minor motorcycle accidents can cause considerable damage.
Some common injuries seen in New York motorcycle accidents include:
- Broken bones
- Fractures
- Head trauma/traumatic brain injuries
- Road rash
- Internal bleeding
- Spinal injuries
- Amputations
- Emotional distress, PTSD, and anxiety
Potential Damages to Recover in a Rochester Motorcycle Accident Case
When you are injured in a Rochester motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you have the right to file a personal injury claim and seek compensation for your losses. The compensation you receive is often referred to as a type of damage, and there are multiple kinds of damages you may receive through a successful claim. Common damages include:
- Economic Damages. Economic damages in Rochester include coverage of any medical bills, hospitalization, ongoing therapy or rehabilitation, medication, lost wages, and lost earning capacity if your injuries impact your ability to work.
- Non-Economic Damages. These include compensation for pain and suffering, along with emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive Damages. Punitive damages are not as commonly awarded as the aforementioned damages because they are generally implemented to punish the liable party for particularly reckless or egregious acts.
To ensure you receive all of the damages you’re rightfully owed after a Rochester motorcycle accident, it’s crucial that you hire an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who can fight for you.
Why Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Gattuso & Ciotoli, PLLC
When you’re injured in a Rochester motorcycle accident, finding a powerful legal advocate is critical. At Gattuso & Ciotoli, PLLC, our team of experienced personal injury attorneys shares decades of legal experience navigating state and federal courtrooms. We work tirelessly to fight for the maximum amount of compensation available to our clients and ensure all liable parties are held accountable for the harm they’ve caused.
With our insight into local courts and laws, in addition to our passion for justice, you can trust our team to fight for your rights.
FAQs
How Much Are Most Motorcycle Accident Settlements Worth in New York?
Motorcycle accident settlements in New York can differ significantly depending on the specifics of each case. Factors such as the severity of injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering all contribute to your final settlement amount. It’s important to remember that each case is unique, and variables such as liability and insurance coverage can greatly impact the settlement as well.
How Do I Choose the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Rochester?
When hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer in Rochester, it is important to find a skilled personal injury lawyer who has success handling motorcycle accident cases in New York, as these are different from typical car accidents. When evaluating potential motorcycle accident lawyers, pay attention to their understanding of local laws and previous case outcomes as well as their communication style.
How Do I File a Claim After a Motorcycle Accident in Rochester?
To file a motorcycle accident claim in Rochester, you need to collect evidence that proves the negligence or recklessness of another person or group caused your accident. Evidence could include police reports, witness statements, medical records, and more. A skilled motorcycle accident attorney from our firm can help you collect strong evidence and file a powerful claim on your behalf.
When Should I Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Rochester?
If you sustained injuries after a Rochester motorcycle accident, it’s important to seek legal aid as soon as possible. The sooner you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer, the sooner you can begin collecting evidence and fighting for compensation. It’s important to note that every personal injury claim in New York comes with a statute of limitations, meaning you only have a few years to pursue compensation before your claim is invalid.
Contact Gattuso & Ciotoli, PLLC, Today
At Gattuso & Ciotoli, PLLC, our experienced Rochester motorcycle accident lawyers are ready to fight for you. Contact us today to get started.