New York City's fatal crash rate for motorcyclists is nearly double that of motorcyclists in the rest of New York State and significantly higher than the national rate. Although motorcycle collisions in NYC are less common than automobile accidents, they are far more likely to result in deadly injuries due to the limited physical protection for motorcyclists. Fortunately, many experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in NYC are available to help victims secure the compensation they deserve.

Best Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in New York City

• Pat James Crispi
• Shana De Caro
• Bruce J. Gitlin
• Judith Livingston
• Scott Occhiogrosso
• Jason L. Paris
• Eric Richman
• Harry Rothenberg
• Matthew Sakkas
• David Scher

Filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit in New York

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, it's essential to find a lawyer who can help you navigate the complexities of dealing with other involved parties, insurance companies, and their lawyers. An attorney experienced with motorcycle accidents understands the necessary steps to secure the compensation you're entitled to, including medical bills, property damage, emotional distress, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

New York statute of limitations

A statute of limitations is the period within which you must file a lawsuit before your action is barred. In New York, you have three years from the date of a motorcycle accident to file a personal injury case. For instance, if you were injured on January 1, 2023, you have until January 1, 2026, to file your lawsuit. If you attempt to file after January 1, 2026, your claim will be barred, and you will forfeit your chance to sue.

The three-year statute of limitations for motorcycle accidents applies to personal injury, property damage, and emotional distress claims.

This statute exists because, over time, it becomes increasingly difficult for all parties involved to remember details and collect evidence related to the accident.

New York laws for motorcyclists

Motorcycle License: You must have a motorcycle operator’s license or a motorcycle junior operator’s license.

Registration: Unlike most other motor vehicles, motorcycles are registered for one year instead of two, and all motorcycle registrations expire on April 30.

Inspection: Motorcycles must be inspected at least once every 12 months at a station licensed by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to perform motorcycle safety inspections.

Insurance: Motorcycles are not covered by the New York Insurance Law (or “no-fault law”), meaning motorcyclists may face more challenges in obtaining compensation for their medical bills. However, unlike most drivers, motorcyclists do not need to demonstrate a “serious injury” to file a lawsuit.

Helmets and Passengers: All motorcyclists and their passengers must wear approved motorcycle helmets and eye protection, even if the motorcycle has a windshield. Passengers must sit facing forward with one leg on each side of the motorcycle and each foot on a foot peg, unless seated in a properly attached sidecar.

Headlights: The motorcycle’s headlight and rear light must be on at all times when operating on the road.

Lane requirements: Motorcyclists can use a full lane and ride side by side in a single lane but cannot ride beside another vehicle in the same lane.

Equipment: Motorcycles must have a headlight, taillight, license plate lamp, brakes, and a horn or similar warning device.

Identifying fault for a motorcycle crash in New York

Motorcycle accidents can happen for various reasons, such as distracted driving, traffic law violations, or hazardous road conditions like potholes or ice. Under New York law, government entities can be held liable for failing to fix potholes or post proper road signs, while manufacturers of defective motorcycle parts could be liable for injuries caused by those defects.

Motor vehicle drivers are most frequently at fault for motorcycle accidents because they often fail to see motorcycles. New York is one of 13 states that recognize the rule of “pure” comparative fault, which assigns fault percentages to parties involved in a motorcycle accident. In this system, an injured party can recover a percentage of monetary compensation regardless of the fault attributed to them.

For example, if a jury finds a motorcyclist 60% at fault and the injured car driver 40% at fault, the car driver can receive 60% of their total damages. The compensation is reduced based on the injured party's degree of fault.

How can an attorney help you?

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident due to another party’s negligence, find an experienced attorney who can act quickly, as the statute of limitations on motorcycle accident claims in New York is three years from the accident date.

Motorcyclists are more vulnerable to injury than people in enclosed vehicles. While motorcycle riders account for only 3% of crashes, they represent 14% of traffic-related deaths, according to the National Safety Council.

Motorcycle crashes can cause severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and limb loss, leading to extensive medical treatment, surgery, physical therapy, and loss of work. Motorcycle accident attorneys do the investigative work needed to help you get the maximum compensation for your losses by gathering relevant documents and hiring expert witnesses.

How to find the best motorcycle accident lawyer in New York, NY

To find the best motorcycle accident lawyer for your case, consider the following:

Experience: At your consultation, ask the attorney about their experience with motorcycle accident cases and the verdicts or settlements they have won.

Communication: Ask about their preferred method of communication and how quickly they respond to calls, emails, or texts.

Fees: Most motorcycle accident attorneys work on contingency, meaning they only get paid if you win a settlement or judgment. Typically, they receive 33% of the compensation.

Past Cases: Inquire about the compensation received in other motorcycle accident cases the attorney has handled.

Methodology

Forbes Advisor used various factors to identify the Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in NYC for 2024. The mathematical model considers and weighs information to calculate a specific rating, narrowing the field to top choices based on:

• Legal experience
• Special licenses & certifications
• Ethics and bar disciplinary measures
• Legal thought leadership
• Education & employment background
• Scholarly lectures & writings
• Awards & honors

Forbes Advisor collects public data from sources like state bar associations, court records, and published internet sources. This list should serve as a reference and starting point in your search for the right lawyer.

Rapport

One crucial factor that can't be quantified is the rapport you establish with your attorney. Personality plays a significant role when teaming up with an attorney, especially during potentially challenging legal situations.

HOUSTON: In the vast expanse of maritime industries, offshore work presents unique challenges and dangers. From oil rigs to shipping vessels, the maritime environment demands skilled labor amidst unpredictable conditions. Unfortunately, accidents are an inherent risk in such settings, leading to injuries, fatalities, and complex legal disputes. In such turbulent waters, the expertise of an offshore accident lawyer becomes invaluable. This article explores the pivotal role of these legal professionals in safeguarding the rights and interests of maritime workers.

Understanding Offshore Accidents

Offshore accidents encompass a wide range of incidents, including oil rig explosions, vessel collisions, slip and fall injuries, equipment malfunctions, and exposure to hazardous substances. The remoteness of offshore locations, coupled with the intricate web of maritime laws and regulations, amplifies the complexity of such cases. Moreover, jurisdictional issues often arise, requiring specialized knowledge of admiralty and maritime law.

The role of an Offshore Accident Lawyer

Legal Representation: Offshore accident lawyers serve as advocates for individuals injured in maritime incidents. They navigate the intricate legal landscape, providing clients with informed guidance and representation throughout the claims process. Whether negotiating settlements or litigating in court, these lawyers leverage their expertise to ensure fair compensation for their client’s injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Investigative Expertise: Effective resolution of offshore accident claims hinges on thorough investigation and documentation of the incident. Offshore accident lawyers collaborate with maritime experts, investigators, and relevant authorities to gather evidence, reconstruct the event, and identify liable parties. From analyzing maintenance records to scrutinizing safety protocols, these professionals leave no stone unturned in pursuit of justice for their clients.

Navigating Maritime Law: Maritime law, a specialized branch of legal doctrine, governs activities at sea and on navigable waters. Offshore accident lawyers possess comprehensive knowledge of maritime statutes, regulations, and precedents, enabling them to interpret and apply the law to each unique case. Whether addressing liability issues, jurisdictional complexities, or the applicability of international conventions, these attorneys adeptly navigate the nuances of maritime law to protect their client’s rights.

Advocating for Safety: Beyond individual cases, offshore accident lawyers play a crucial role in advocating for improved safety standards within the maritime industry. By holding negligent parties accountable and seeking compensation for victims, these legal professionals incentivize companies to prioritize safety protocols, training programs, and equipment maintenance. Through their advocacy efforts, offshore accident lawyers contribute to fostering a culture of safety and accountability at sea.

Case Study: The Deepwater Horizon Disaster The Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion in 2010 stands as one of the most catastrophic offshore accidents in recent history. In the aftermath of the disaster, offshore accident lawyers represented thousands of workers and impacted communities in seeking compensation from BP and other responsible parties. Through extensive litigation and negotiation, these attorneys secured significant settlements for their clients, while also shedding light on systemic safety failures within the oil industry.

Conclusion

Offshore accidents pose significant challenges for maritime workers and their families, necessitating skilled legal representation to navigate the complexities of maritime law and seek just compensation. Offshore accident lawyers play a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and safety of maritime workers, leveraging their expertise to hold negligent parties accountable and promote industry-wide improvements in safety standards. As guardians of justice on the high seas, these legal professionals provide invaluable support to those affected by offshore accidents, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights protected.

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HOUSTON: In the maritime industry, legal matters can quickly become complex and challenging to navigate. Having a knowledgeable legal advisor is crucial, whether it’s an accident at sea, contractual disputes, or regulatory compliance issues. Houston, as a hub for maritime commerce, makes proficient maritime attorneys indispensable. This article explores the significance of Houston maritime attorneys and their essential role in safeguarding clients’ interests in this dynamic sector.

Understanding Maritime Law

Maritime law, also known as admiralty law, covers a broad range of legal issues related to activities on navigable waters. These include ocean commerce, shipping, navigation, marine insurance, salvage, and more. Given the complexity and international nature of maritime operations, this area of law requires specialized expertise and a deep understanding of both domestic and international regulations.

The Role Of A Houston Maritime Attorney

Houston maritime attorneys play a vital role in protecting the interests of their clients within the maritime industry. Their responsibilities include:

1. Legal Representation:

   Houston maritime attorneys represent individuals, maritime businesses, insurers, and other entities involved in maritime activities. They advocate for their clients’ rights in legal proceedings, including arbitration, mediation, and litigation.

2. Contractual Matters:

   Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts is a significant aspect of maritime law. Attorneys ensure that contracts related to vessel charters, cargo shipments, maritime construction, and other transactions comply with applicable laws and protect their clients’ interests.

3. Personal Injury Claims:

   Injuries sustained by seamen, longshore workers, or passengers aboard vessels fall under maritime law. Houston maritime attorneys help clients pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages through personal injury claims, including those governed by the Jones Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA).

4. Environmental Compliance:

   With increasing environmental regulations governing maritime activities, attorneys advise clients on compliance with laws such as the Clean Water Act and the Oil Pollution Act. They assist in resolving environmental disputes and represent clients facing enforcement actions or liability claims related to pollution incidents.

5. Vessel Documentation and Registration:

   Houston maritime attorneys handle the documentation and registration of vessels, ensuring compliance with the requirements of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and other regulatory bodies. They assist clients with vessel mortgages, liens, and ownership transfers.

6. Maritime Insurance Claims:

   From hull and machinery insurance to protection and indemnity (P&I) coverage, maritime insurance is essential for mitigating risks associated with maritime operations. Attorneys help clients navigate the intricacies of insurance policies and advocate for their interests in insurance claims disputes.

Conclusion

In the maritime commerce realm, access to seasoned legal counsel is crucial for mitigating risks, resolving disputes, and ensuring compliance with the complex laws and regulations governing the industry. Houston maritime attorneys bring invaluable expertise and experience, serving as trusted advisors and advocates for their clients’ interests. Whether protecting the rights of injured seamen, facilitating commercial transactions, or addressing environmental concerns, these legal professionals play a pivotal role in navigating the legal waters of the maritime sector with diligence and proficiency.

#MaritimeLaw #HoustonAttorneys #LegalExperts #MaritimeIndustry #AdmiraltyLaw #LegalRepresentation #MaritimeCompliance #VesselDocumentation #MaritimeInsurance #EnvironmentalLaw #PersonalInjuryClaims