Brooklyn Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents can cause even more harm than other types of motor vehicle collisions. The physical vulnerability of a person on a motorcycle is higher, even when that person is wearing a helmet. Also, police officers sometimes make the assumption that the motorcyclist was the one at fault – even though the opposite is often true.
A Brooklyn motorcycle accident lawyer will have a lot of experience dealing with the specific issues raised by motorcycle accident litigation. Get in touch with a personal injury lawyer who can make a strong case for you and get you the compensation that you deserve.
Dangerous Types of Accidents
While large highways have been the location of many motorcycle accidents, driving on city and suburban streets can also be dangerous. Automobile drivers commonly try to change lanes quickly without checking to see if a motorcycle is nearby.
The American Motorcycle Association sponsored a study of motorcycle crashes which found that 59 percent of collisions happen in moderate to heavy traffic. Cyclists who try to “lane split” – moving up between cars that are stuck in traffic – must be very careful of these hazards.
Motorcyclists and passengers almost everywhere are now required by law to wear helmets that meet the standards set by the U.S. government. When buying a helmet and other safety gear, look for markings showing that it complies with the rules put out by the Department of Transportation.
Motorcyclists must also have a permit that indicates they have taken an approved course and passed a test demonstrating that they know how to operate a motorcycle in a safe manner. The time right after a motorcycle accident can be scary. It is crucial for the people involved to remain calm and not admit any wrongdoing.
Obtaining Evidence
It is never too soon to start gathering important information – names and addresses of other people involved, road conditions, and witness accounts. A Brooklyn motorcycle accident lawyer who has handled these kinds of cases know how to talk to potential witnesses to get the facts that will be most helpful in winning the case or obtaining a favorable settlement.
One important thing to do is to take photos of any injuries or damage to the motorcycle. Additionally, compile a thorough record of all medical expenses that are in any way related to the accident.
Sometimes people are injured in a crash while not wearing a helmet. However, this does not necessarily mean they are barred from getting damages. Courts will typically use a comparative negligence approach.
Comparative negligence means that the injured parties’ damages are reduced to reflect their own carelessness – in this case, not using a helmet. But if the victim can show that the other motorist caused the accident due to reckless driving, some compensatory damages may be awarded anyway.
Insurance
Motorists who have insurance on their cars often do not have adequate coverage for their motorcycles, perhaps because they view them as recreational vehicles.
This is a not a good idea. A person is actually more likely to suffer physical injuries in a motorcycle crash, due to the nature of the vehicle.
Talk to a Brooklyn Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
Whatever the cause of the accident, a Brooklyn motorcycle accident lawyer can provide the necessary assistance. They know that police accounts of accidents can sometimes be biased against motorcyclists, and they are familiar with the particular kinds of injuries most likely to occur in these cases. Do not delay in getting the advice you need.