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Motorcycle Accidents: Your Rights When Injured on the Road

motorcycle accidents, close up of a motorcycle ryder

Motorcycle accidents can have devastating consequences for victims and their families, leading to severe or fatal injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. In the Hudson Valley, motorcyclists face unique challenges due to varying road conditions, unpredictable weather patterns, and a diverse mix of road users. Understanding your rights and knowing how to protect them is crucial if you’re injured in a motorcycle accident. This post aims to guide you through the key aspects of your rights as a motorcyclist, the steps to take after an accident, and how a personal injury lawyer can help you seek justice and compensation. For specific advice tailored to your particular situation, contact the Law Office of Taran M. Provost, PLLC, to speak with a skilled and dedicated New York motorcycle accident lawyer.

Your Rights as a Motorcyclist

As a motorcyclist, you have the same rights and responsibilities as any other motorist on the road. However, due to the inherent risks associated with riding a motorcycle, accidents often result in more severe injuries compared to car accidents. If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.

Right to Compensation

When you are injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another party’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation. This can include:

  • Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatments.

  • Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you lost due to your inability to work during recovery.

  • Pain and Suffering: Monetary compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.

  • Property Damage: Reimbursement for the repair or replacement of your motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.

As a motorcyclist, you likely do not have the benefit of no-fault Personal Injury Protection insurance to cover your medical bills and lost income. At the same time, however, you are not hemmed in by the limits of no-fault coverage, and you don’t have to prove a qualifying injury before you can pursue a claim against the negligent driver or other party responsible for your injuries. Instead, you can file a claim immediately and recover compensation for the full amount of harm you have suffered.

Right to Legal Representation

Trying to resolve a motorcycle accident claim on your own can be difficult and frustrating, and you are not likely to receive as much compensation as you would if represented by an experienced personal injury lawyer. You are better off focusing on your physical recovery and getting your life back in order while an attorney works on your behalf to resolve your claim successfully and for a full and fair amount of compensation. An experienced personal injury lawyer can:

  • Investigate the Accident: A thorough investigation is crucial for a successful claim. Your lawyer will gather evidence, review medical records, and consult with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case.

  • Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often attempt to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring that you receive a settlement that accurately reflects the extent of your injuries and losses.

  • Represent You in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court. They will present a compelling case to the judge and jury, advocating for your rights and pursuing the maximum compensation you deserve.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident

Taking the right steps immediately after a motorcycle accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here are the essential steps to follow:

1. Seek Medical Attention

Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if you feel okay at the moment, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical evaluation ensures that any injuries are diagnosed and treated before they get worse, while also providing valuable documentation for your insurance claim.

2. Report the Accident

Contact the police and report the accident. A police report serves as an official record and can be crucial in establishing the facts of the case.

3. Gather Evidence

If your injuries don’t prevent this, collect as much information as possible from the accident scene. This includes taking photographs, noting the contact information of witnesses, and documenting the road conditions and any visible damage.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the necessary details but avoid making statements that could be used against you later.

5. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Consulting with a personal injury lawyer experienced in motorcycle accident cases can help you understand your rights and the best course of action to take. If you contact an attorney early enough, they can handle many of the steps above on your behalf, including gathering evidence and interacting with the insurance company so you don’t have to.

Contact Lawyer Taran Provost After a Motorcycle Accident in the Hudson Valley

Being involved in a motorcycle accident is a life-altering event, but understanding your rights and taking the appropriate steps can help you navigate the aftermath to a successful conclusion. At the Law Office of Taran M. Provost, we are dedicated to helping injured motorcyclists in Orange, Ulster and Dutchess counties seek justice and recover the compensation they need to rebuild their lives. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, call us today at 845-675-3243 for a free consultation over the phone or at our offices in Poughkeepsie and Goshen, and let us fight for your rights.

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