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Queens Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Motorcycle Accident Experts with offices in Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan & The Bronx

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Queens, you’re likely overwhelmed with medical bills, insurance paperwork, and the emotional stress of your recovery. At The Orlow Firm, we specialize in motorcycle accident cases, providing you the legal expertise you need to secure the compensation you deserve.

Key Takeaways

  • The Orlow Firm specializes in Queens motorcycle accidents, making us the go-to experts in the field.
  • With our legal help, you can secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
  • Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation

How The Orlow Firm Maximizes Your Motorcycle Accident Case

At The Orlow Firm, we understand the complexities that come with motorcycle accidents in Queens. Our expertise in this niche enables us to navigate the legal labyrinth effectively, ensuring that you get the maximum compensation you rightfully deserve. Here’s how we can help maximize your case:

Personalized Case Evaluation: Our first step is a comprehensive and personalized case evaluation. We take the time to understand the specifics of your accident, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. This customized approach allows us to create a robust legal strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.

Extensive Investigation: We don’t rely solely on police reports or insurance company evaluations. Our team conducts its own extensive investigation, collecting critical evidence that includes eyewitness accounts, medical reports, and even traffic camera footage when available.

Expert Consultations: We collaborate with medical professionals, accident reconstruction experts, and financial analysts to build a compelling case. These consultations help us in accurately estimating the worth of your claim, ensuring you are compensated for all your injuries and losses.

Aggressive Negotiations: Armed with a solid case, we enter negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance company. Our aim is to get you the maximum possible settlement without going to trial. However, if a fair settlement isn’t possible through negotiations, we are fully prepared to take your case to court.

Courtroom Excellence: Our team of Queens motorcycle accident lawyers has a proven track record of courtroom success. We employ compelling arguments and expert testimonies to convince the jury of your entitlement to maximum compensation.

No Upfront Costs: We operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. Our fee structure is designed to give everyone an equal opportunity at securing expert legal representation.

Open Communication: Throughout the legal process, we maintain open lines of communication. You will always be kept informed about the progress of your case, and we are available to answer any questions you may have.

Local Knowledge: Our deep understanding of Queens and New York City traffic laws and regulations give us a unique edge. We use this knowledge to pinpoint liability and substantiate your claims, providing you with the best chance at a favorable outcome.

Years of Experience: With years of experience in motorcycle accident cases in Queens, we’ve developed an acute understanding of what it takes to win. Our seasoned lawyers apply this wealth of knowledge to every case, ensuring the best possible outcome for our clients.

Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation. Time is of the essence in motorcycle accident cases. Don’t wait; let The Orlow Firm help you maximize your case today.

Compensation Victims Can Secure After a Motorcycle Accident in New York

After a motorcycle accident in Queens, you may be entitled to various types of compensation to cover both your economic and non-economic damages. At The Orlow Firm, we strive to ensure that you receive compensation that adequately reflects the extent of your losses. Below are the categories of damages you may be eligible to claim:

Economic Damages

Medical Expenses: This includes hospital bills, surgical procedures, medication, physical therapy, and any future medical expenses related to your injuries. We work closely with medical professionals to accurately estimate both your current and future medical costs.

Lost Wages: Missing work due to your injuries can result in a significant financial burden. You can be compensated for the time you’re unable to work, including future lost wages if your injuries result in long-term disability.

Property Damage: If your motorcycle was damaged in the accident, you can claim the costs for repairs or replacement.

Out-of-Pocket Costs: This can include any miscellaneous expenses directly related to the accident or your injuries, such as transportation to medical appointments or the cost of hiring help for household chores.

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and Suffering: This compensation is meant to address the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve undergone as a result of the accident. Calculating pain and suffering is complex, and our legal team uses various methods to quantify these non-economic damages.

Emotional Distress: Motorcycle accidents can result in severe emotional or psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Compensation for emotional distress aims to provide relief for these non-tangible losses.

Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have had a detrimental impact on your relationship with your spouse, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium. This covers the emotional and intangible aspects of a marital relationship that have been affected due to the accident.

Reduced Quality of Life: Serious injuries can have a lasting impact on your ability to enjoy life and partake in activities you once loved. You can be compensated for this loss in your quality of life.

Punitive Damages: While rare, punitive damages may be awarded in cases where the at-fault party’s actions were particularly egregious or reckless. These are meant to serve as a deterrent for similar future conduct.

Understanding the full scope of what you can be compensated for is crucial in ensuring that you don’t settle for less than what you deserve. At The Orlow Firm, we take every aspect into account to help you secure maximum compensation. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss your options.

Determining Legal Liability in New York Motorcycle Accidents

Determining legal responsibility, often referred to as “liability,” in a Queens motorcycle accident can be a complex process that involves multiple parties and various factors. At The Orlow Firm, our expert team of Queens motorcycle accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate your case to identify who is legally responsible for your injuries and losses.

Typically, the most common party found liable in a motorcycle accident is the driver of the other vehicle involved. Negligent actions such as speeding, running a red light, or distracted driving like texting while driving can easily lead to a crash. If the other driver violated traffic laws or exhibited reckless behavior, they would likely be held responsible for the accident.

However, liability is not always straightforward. In some instances, multiple parties could be at fault. For example, if the other driver was working at the time of the accident, their employer could also be held accountable. Companies are generally responsible for the actions of their employees when they are on the clock, and this extends to driving-related duties as well.

Local or state governments may also bear some responsibility, especially if hazardous road conditions like potholes, inadequate signage, or faulty traffic lights contributed to the accident. In these cases, filing a claim becomes more complicated due to the involvement of government entities and the special rules that apply to them.

Manufacturers of motorcycles or related equipment like helmets and tires can also be held liable if a defect in their product contributed to the accident. Proving this typically requires a thorough investigation and expert testimony to demonstrate that the product was indeed faulty and a contributing factor to the accident.

Sometimes the motorcyclist can also share some portion of the blame, known as “comparative negligence” under New York law. If you are found partially responsible for the accident, your potential compensation could be reduced proportionately to your share of the blame. This makes it even more crucial to have an experienced motorcycle accident attorney from The Orlow Firm on your side to ensure that liability is fairly and accurately assessed.

Identifying the parties who are legally responsible for your motorcycle accident is crucial as it impacts the amount of compensation you can claim. With a specialized focus on Queens motorcycle accidents, The Orlow Firm has the experience and expertise to help you navigate this complex legal terrain effectively. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to understand your rights and options.

Common Types of Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection that a motorcycle offers compared to other vehicles. In Queens, where the streets are bustling and traffic conditions can change in an instant, the risks are even more pronounced. Whether it’s colliding with a car, truck, or hitting a road hazard, the consequences can be devastating. The types of injuries sustained can vary significantly depending on the specifics of the accident, such as the speed at which it occurred and the safety gear worn. Here are some common types of injuries that victims might sustain in a motorcycle accident:

  1. Head Injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries are frequent outcomes, especially if a helmet wasn’t worn during the accident.
  2. Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result in paralysis or lifelong mobility issues, dramatically affecting the victim’s quality of life.
  3. Broken Bones: Arms, legs, and even ribs can easily break upon impact, requiring immediate medical attention and potentially leading to permanent disability.
  4. Road Rash: Sliding on the pavement can cause severe skin abrasions, leading to potential infections and scarring.
  5. Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding and organ damage can occur, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
  6. Burns: Contact with hot motorcycle parts or fluids can result in burns, requiring specialized medical treatment.
  7. Soft Tissue Damage: Muscles, tendons, and ligaments can be stretched or torn, affecting mobility and requiring long-term physical therapy.
  8. Facial Injuries: The absence of a full-face helmet can lead to facial fractures or dental injuries.
  9. Psychological Trauma: The accident experience and its aftermath can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Understanding the types of injuries that can occur in a motorcycle accident is crucial for building a robust legal case. Each injury type has its own implications for medical treatment, long-term care, and therefore, the potential for compensation. At The Orlow Firm, our Queens motorcycle accident lawyers are adept at matching injury types with the requisite legal and medical support, thereby helping victims secure the compensation they need for a holistic recovery. If you or a loved one has suffered any of these injuries in a Queens motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to reach out for specialized legal support. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation today.

Types of Motorcycle Accidents in Queens, NY

Motorcycle accidents in Queens can happen under a myriad of circumstances. Understanding the different scenarios in which these accidents occur can help in preparing a strong legal case and obtaining maximum compensation for your injuries. At The Orlow Firm, we have dealt with a wide array of accident types, and here are some of the most common situations:

Intersection Accidents: One of the most prevalent places for motorcycle accidents is at intersections. Here, cars may make abrupt turns or run red lights, colliding with motorcyclists who are crossing the intersection.

Rear-End Collisions: Motorcycles are often rear-ended by cars that fail to maintain a safe following distance. The consequences can be catastrophic, as the motorcyclist is generally unprotected against the impact.

Left-Turn Accidents: These occur when a car making a left turn collides with an oncoming motorcycle. In many instances, the car driver misjudges the motorcyclist’s speed or fails to see them altogether.

Lane Splitting: While lane splitting is illegal in New York, some motorcyclists still engage in this practice, leading to accidents when cars change lanes without noticing the motorcycle.

Head-On Collisions: These are some of the most severe types of accidents, often resulting in fatalities or life-altering injuries. They usually occur when a vehicle crosses into the opposite lane, colliding head-on with a motorcycle.

Highway Accidents: The high speeds involved in highway riding can result in devastating accidents, especially when combined with reckless or aggressive driving behavior by other motorists.

Hit-and-Run: Unfortunately, some drivers flee the scene after causing an accident, leaving the motorcyclist to cope with injuries and damages alone.

Single-Vehicle Accidents: Not all motorcycle accidents involve other cars. Slippery road conditions, potholes, or even animal crossings can lead to single-vehicle accidents, which can still be severe.

Accidents Involving Commercial Vehicles: These are particularly dangerous due to the size and weight of commercial trucks and buses. The injuries sustained in such accidents are often more severe and complex.

Alcohol-Related Accidents: Impaired driving remains a significant issue and is responsible for a considerable number of motorcycle accidents in Queens.

Identifying the type of scenario in which your accident occurred is pivotal for establishing liability and therefore, the amount of compensation you may be entitled to. The Orlow Firm has the expertise to navigate the nuances of different accident types, helping you build a strong case for compensation. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss your unique circumstances.

Relevant New York Motorcycle Accident Laws

When it comes to motorcycle accidents in Queens, several state and local laws play a critical role in determining the outcome of your case. Understanding these laws can help you navigate the legal landscape effectively. At The Orlow Firm, we’re well-versed in the relevant laws governing motorcycle accidents, and here are some of the key ones:

New York Vehicle and Traffic Law: This comprehensive law covers rules of the road, including rights-of-way, speed limits, and other driving behaviors. Violations of these rules can be evidence of negligence in an accident case.

New York No-Fault Law: Unlike many other states, New York operates under a No-Fault insurance system. This means that regardless of who is at fault in an accident, your own insurance company will cover basic economic losses. However, for severe injuries, you may step outside the No-Fault system and file a lawsuit against the responsible party.

Comparative Negligence: New York follows the principle of “pure comparative negligence,” which means that if you are partly at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. It is crucial to know that you can still claim compensation even if you are partly to blame.

Helmet Laws: New York mandates that all motorcyclists and their passengers must wear an approved safety helmet and eye protection. Failure to comply with these laws can affect your ability to claim full compensation in the event of a head or eye injury.

Lane-Splitting Prohibition: Lane-splitting, or riding between lanes of traffic, is illegal in New York. If you are involved in an accident while lane-splitting, it may negatively impact your claim.

Motorcycle License Requirements: Operating a motorcycle without the proper license or permit is illegal and could affect your ability to recover damages in an accident.

Understanding these laws is crucial for building a strong case after a motorcycle accident in Queens. It is not just about knowing the laws; it’s about how they are applied in real-world scenarios, which is where The Orlow Firm excels. Our expertise ensures that all relevant laws are considered when pursuing your claim for maximum compensation. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to understand how these laws apply to your specific case.

Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accidents in New York

The statute of limitations is a critical aspect to consider when you’re involved in a motorcycle accident in Queens, New York. Simply put, the statute of limitations sets a time limit within which you must file a lawsuit for your injuries. In New York, the general statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including motorcycle accidents, is three years from the date of the accident. This means you have three years to initiate legal proceedings against the at-fault party. Failing to file within this time frame usually means that you lose your right to bring a case altogether.

There are some exceptions to this rule, particularly when dealing with government entities. If your accident was caused by a defect in a public road or involved a government vehicle, special rules apply, and the time limit may be much shorter. In such cases, you may be required to file a notice of claim within 90 days of the accident. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced Queens motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after your accident to ensure that you meet all deadlines and preserve your right to compensation.

It’s also worth noting that while the statute of limitations sets the time frame for filing a lawsuit, insurance claims usually have their own deadlines. You’ll want to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, ideally within 24 to 48 hours, to stay within their reporting guidelines.

Understanding the statute of limitations is vital because missing this deadline could mean losing your chance to recover any compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. The clock starts ticking from the date of the accident, so don’t delay. At The Orlow Firm, we can help guide you through these deadlines and ensure that your claim is filed in a timely manner. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss the specifics of your case and how the statute of limitations applies to you.

Preventing Motorcycle Accidents in Queens and NYC

While no one can entirely eliminate the risk of getting involved in a motorcycle accident, there are various proactive measures one can take to minimize the chances of an accident occurring. Understanding and implementing these prevention methods can be a life-saving endeavor. At The Orlow Firm, we not only represent clients who have been in accidents but also advocate for motorcycle safety in Queens and throughout New York City.

One of the most critical prevention methods is wearing the right safety gear. A DOT-approved helmet can significantly reduce the risk of fatal head injuries. In addition to a helmet, wearing gloves, boots, and a motorcycle jacket can offer additional protection against road rash and other injuries in case of an accident.

Training and education are another pivotal aspect of motorcycle safety. Even experienced riders can benefit from safety courses that offer advanced techniques and defensive riding skills. These courses often cover vital topics like how to handle a bike in adverse weather conditions, how to navigate busy urban roads, and how to execute emergency maneuvers.

Maintaining your motorcycle in top condition is also essential for preventing accidents. Regular maintenance checks, including brake inspections, tire pressure assessments, and ensuring all lights are working, can make a difference in your safety on the road.

Adhering to traffic laws is another fundamental prevention method. This includes obeying speed limits, avoiding aggressive riding behaviors like tailgating or lane-splitting, and following road signs and signals. Being cautious at intersections, where a large number of motorcycle accidents occur, can also reduce risk.

Another vital aspect is being highly attentive and aware of your surroundings. Always assume that other drivers might not see you. Use your headlights, even during the day, and make eye contact with other drivers whenever possible to confirm that they have seen you.

Weather conditions in Queens and the larger New York City area can change quickly, so always be prepared for sudden shifts. Rain, snow, and even wind can affect your ability to control the motorcycle. Slow down and take extra precautions when conditions are less than ideal.

Preventing motorcycle accidents is a shared responsibility between motorcyclists and other road users. While you can’t control the actions of other drivers, you can make choices that significantly reduce your risk. By taking these preventative steps, you’re not only safeguarding your life but also contributing to a safer road environment for everyone. If, despite your best efforts, you find yourself in an accident, know that The Orlow Firm is here to help. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss your case.

Additional Resources for Motorcycle Accident Victims in New York

For more information and guidance on how to navigate the complexities of a motorcycle accident in Queens, these resources can be helpful:

NHTSA Motorcycle Safety: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers a plethora of resources on motorcycle safety, including tips and statistics. A reliable resource to understand the importance of safety measures. Visit NHTSA Motorcycle Safety

New York State Department of Health: Offers important insights into injury prevention, including motorcycle-related injuries. Visit NYS Department of Health

Insurance Information Institute: An invaluable resource for understanding the insurance aspect related to motorcycle accidents. They offer guidelines on what to look for in a policy and how to handle claims. Visit III.org

New York City Vision Zero: A city initiative aimed at reducing traffic-related fatalities, with relevant information on how motorcyclists can contribute to safer streets in Queens and other parts of New York City. Learn about Vision Zero

For in-depth information tailored to your specific situation, contacting a qualified Queens motorcycle accident lawyer is crucial. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss how The Orlow Firm can assist you in navigating the complexities of your motorcycle accident case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is my case worth?
The value of your case depends on various factors such as the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and other damages. An in-depth evaluation by The Orlow Firm can provide a more accurate estimate.

Do I have to go to court?
Not necessarily. Many motorcycle accident cases are settled out of court. However, if a fair settlement can’t be reached, going to court may be the best way to secure the compensation you deserve.

What if I partly contributed to the accident?
New York follows a “comparative negligence” rule, meaning you may still be entitled to compensation even if you were partly at fault. However, your compensation might be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How much does it cost to hire The Orlow Firm?
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss the specifics.

How quickly should I contact a lawyer?
The sooner, the better. Prompt legal guidance can help preserve evidence, witness testimonies, and other crucial elements of your case.

How long does it take to resolve such cases?
The duration varies from case to case. While some may resolve in a matter of months through a quick settlement, others may require litigation and could take years.

If you have any more questions or need personalized advice, Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation.

Why Choose The Orlow Firm?

Choosing the right legal representation after a motorcycle accident is crucial for the success of your case. At The Orlow Firm, we bring decades of experience in personal injury law, a deep understanding of Queens and New York City traffic regulations, and a compassionate approach to every client’s unique situation. Our team is committed to pursuing the maximum compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on recovery. We pride ourselves on providing personalized service, maintaining open lines of communication, and fighting tirelessly on behalf of our clients. Don’t settle for less; let our expertise work for you. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation and find out how The Orlow Firm can make a difference in your case.