The National Safety Council reports that approximately two-thirds of all 2021 motorcycle fatalities occurred on urban roads. It should come as no surprise then that Midtown Manhattan sees its fair share of injuries and deaths from motorcycle accidents.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Midtown Manhattan
Contributing factors include the high amount of traffic, including a large number of tourists who are unfamiliar with the streets and local laws. Other common causes include:
- Speeding
- Failure to yield
- Motorcycles in other vehicles’ blind spots
Of the accidents that occur in Midtown Manhattan, the majority do not involve alcohol or drug impairment of the motorcycle operator. If another driver’s negligence caused your motorcycle accident, you may be able to see compensation for injuries.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Each accident is unique; however, many of them cause injuries. In fact, motorcycle operators and passengers are more likely than other drivers to suffer serious injuries or death during a crash. This is because of the lack of protection riders have compared to passenger car occupants. Some of the most common injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents include:
- Facial injuries: These can cause permanent disfigurement and significant emotional trauma
- Fractures: Broken bones may require surgery to help properly. This can contribute to significant medical bills and missed work.
- Road rash: Skin damage from a motorcycle accident can be extensive. Some riders may require grafting to repair road rash.
- Spinal cord damage: Spinal injuries can result in pain, paralysis, and disability. Effects are often life-long, resulting in significant life modifications and medical care.
- Traumatic brain injuries: TBIs resulting from blunt force trauma or skull fractures often require extensive rehabilitation. Some people never fully recover from a TBI.
No matter what type of injury you incur, it is important to have an attorney who will fight for proper compensation.
How Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Help
Motorcycle accident lawyers specialize in helping motorcycle accident victims secure compensation for their injuries and emotional trauma. Proper legal representation is crucial in assisting people to navigate Manhattan’s complex legal system. An experienced attorney understands local and state laws and how they apply to your motorcycle accident.
Services Offered by Midtown Manhattan Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Attorneys provide many helpful services for accident victims. The first of these is a legal consultation and case evaluation. When you contact Cellino Law, one of our staff will review your case and determine its merits. You can then use this information to decide if and how you want to proceed.
An accident lawyer also investigates the accident in question by gathering evidence. She may speak with witnesses and request and review available photos and videos of the accident. This helps establish responsibility, which can affect negotiations and compensation.
If you choose to pursue a legal claim, your attorney will negotiate with the insurance companies involved, whether that is your own or the at-fault driver’s. Remember, insurance companies have attorneys to negotiate on their behalf, and an experienced attorney gives you an equal seat at the table. Many accident claims are settled during negotiations rather than at trial.
When a case does go to trial, an accident lawyer will represent you in a professional manner. Our attorneys fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve after a Manhattan motorcycle accident.
What To Look for in a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
There is no right attorney for every plaintiff. However, the most successful firms have a similar set of qualities. You want to choose a law practice that has considerable experience in similar cases. Because motorcycle accidents often cause significant injuries, you want to seek a lawyer who has a proven track record of fighting for victims and their rights.
Another important factor to consider is communication style. You will be sharing personal information with your attorney and should feel comfortable doing so. It is helpful to choose a lawyer who listens to and addresses your concerns clearly and completely.
At Cellino Law, our attorneys specialize in personal injury cases, including Midtown Manhattan motorcycle accidents. We have a proven track record of successful settlements and verdicts in accident cases. Additionally, we are intimately familiar with the city’s laws and court system. As a result, we can help you secure a favorable award from the insurance companies or other drivers.
Types of Compensation and Damages in Motorcycle Accident Cases
Manhattan motorcycle accident victims can seek several types of compensation for their injuries. These include economic, noneconomic, and punitive. Some examples of economic damages include the following:
- Medical care: The cost of medical care related to the accident can skyrocket quickly. It is important to consider immediate costs and those for future care for injuries.
- Lost wages: Many accident victims miss work because of their injuries. Time off for medical appointments and legal proceedings may also affect income.
- Home modifications: If you need to make changes to your home to accommodate an injury or disability, the cost is economic damage from the accident.
Noneconomic damages include the pain and suffering endured as a result of a Manhattan motorcycle accident. They are much harder to identify than economic damages. A motorcycle attorney can help you quantify damages related to mental anguish, trauma, and disability. He will also consider any loss of enjoyment or consortium when requesting damages.
A final type of compensation that some accident victims seek is punitive. These are typically related to malicious or seriously negligent actions, such as an intoxicated responsible driver.
Many factors can affect the compensation awarded to accident victims. The type of accident, severity of injuries sustained, and actions of the responsible party all play a role in determining awards. A motorcycle accident lawyer will consider all of those factors when determining an amount to seek. Additionally, because they specialize in this type of personal injury case, accident attorneys understand how to secure favorable awards through negotiation or trial.
Legal Representation for Midtown Manhattan Motorcycle Accident Victims
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident, Cellino Law can help. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers understand Manhattan’s legal system. We will fight for your right to compensation for any injuries sustained. Contact us to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation.