Nassau County Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Nassau County is a motorcycle enthusiast’s dream because of its scenic roads and picturesque landscapes. Unfortunately, motorcyclists may sometimes face the harsh reality of accidents caused by the negligence of other drivers. In addition to the devastating injuries and significant financial burdens, motorcyclists also encounter bias and stereotypes that can hinder their ability to recover fair compensation for their serious injuries.
An experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Nassau County at Isaacson, Schiowitz & Korson, LLP can swiftly investigate the crash site and partner with accident reconstruction experts to piece together the events leading to the accident. We will fight to obtain maximum compensation for you to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially from the trauma of the motorcycle accident.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Nassau County
Motorcycle accidents can occur for various reasons, but some major causes include:
- Motorist Negligence: Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence of other drivers who fail to yield, follow too closely, or engage in distracted driving.
- Vehicle Driver Inattention: Drivers who fail to notice motorcycles in their blind spots or while changing lanes can cause devastating accidents.
- Speeding Motorists: Excessive speed of car and truck drivers is a leading factor in motorcycle accidents because it reduces reaction times. It also increases the severity of collisions.
- Drunk Car Drivers: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment and reaction time. This can lead to an increased risk of accidents.
- Unsafe Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, debris, potholes, and slick surfaces can pose significant hazards to motorcyclists.
Unique Challenges Faced by Motorcycle Accident Victims
- Severity of Injuries: Due to the lack of protection afforded by motorcycles, riders are more likely to sustain severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and road rash.
- Bias and Stereotypes: Motorcyclists may encounter bias and stereotypes from insurance companies, law enforcement, and even jurors, which can affect their right to seek compensation.
- Limited Insurance Coverage: Motorcycle insurance policies may have lower coverage limits compared to auto insurance policies. This generally leaves victims with inadequate compensation for their catastrophic injuries and damages.
Schedule a free consultation with one of our Nassau County motorcycle accident attorneys to learn more about how to prove negligence and take legal action. Our lawyers can determine liability and recover compensation for your short and long-term medical bills, lost income, physical pain, emotional trauma, and other damages.
Steps to Take for a Viable Motorcycle Injury Claim
Check for Injuries
Check yourself and others involved in the Long Island motorcycle accident for injuries. Get medical attention for anyone who is injured, even if the motorcycle accident injuries seem to be minor.
Call Emergency Services
Dial 911 to report the accident. Request police and medical assistance to the scene, regardless of the severity of injuries or damages.
Document the Scene
Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including damage to your motorcycle, other vehicles involved, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
Exchange Information
Exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle registration information with other parties involved in the accident. Gather contact information from negligent drivers and witnesses to be used by your motorcycle accident lawyer.
Report the Accident
Notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the incident. Speak to an attorney beforehand if the accident happened because the individuals involved lost control or there were equipment failures.
Consult Our Attorneys
Schedule a consultation with the Law Office of Isaacson, Schiowitz & Korson, LLP. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in Nassau County can explain all your legal rights and options. We can protect your interests and pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
The Motorcycle Accident Claims Process in Nassau County
Our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident by collecting evidence like witness statements, police reports, and medical records. We will work to determine who was at fault for the accident and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Our goal is to obtain a fair settlement that compensates you for your injuries and damages.
If a settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, our Nassau motorcycle accident lawyer will file a lawsuit on your behalf. This initiates the formal legal process, which may involve discovery, mediation or settlement negotiations, and potentially a trial.
Throughout the legal process, our lawyers will represent your interests and fight fiercely for your rights. We will keep you informed about the progress of your case every step of the way. If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will present compelling arguments and work to recover the maximum settlement. The process is different if the accident results in wrongful death.
How Our Nassau County Motorcycle Accident Lawyers will Prove Liability of a Negligent Motorist
Investigating the Accident
- Gathering Evidence: This may include photos of the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, and surveillance footage, among other physical and forensic evidence.
- Accident Reconstruction: In some cases, accident reconstruction experts may be called upon to analyze the evidence. They will reconstruct the traffic patterns and sequence of events leading to the crash.
Establishing Negligence
- Negligence Standard: In motorcycle accident cases, liability is typically determined based on negligence. To prove negligence, it must be shown that the other party owed the injured biker a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused injuries due to their breach.
- Common Examples of Negligence: Common examples of negligence in motorcycle crashes include distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield the right of way, drunk driving, and reckless driving.
Comparative Negligence
- New York’s Comparative Negligence Law: New York follows a comparative negligence system, which means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover damages. However, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault.
- Apportioning Fault: In cases where both parties share fault for the accident, each party’s degree of fault will be apportioned by the court or insurance adjusters. This can affect the amount of compensation you ultimately receive.
Insurance Company Pitfalls to Avoid After a Motorcycle Accident in Nassau County
Admitting Fault
Avoid making any statements that could be construed as admitting fault. Stick to the facts when discussing the accident with insurance adjusters.
Providing Recorded Statements
Do not provide a recorded statement to the insurance company without legal representation as it can jeopardize your case. Our Nassau County motorcycle injury lawyer can handle these conversations to protect your rights.
Accepting the Initial Settlement Offer
Accepting the insurance company’s initial settlement offer without evaluating the full extent of your damages can result in insufficient compensation. Consult one of our motorcycle accident attorneys to assess the true value of your claim before accepting any settlement offers.
Signing Documents Without Understanding Them
Review all documents carefully and consult your Nassau County motorcycle accident lawyer before signing anything. We can explain the terms and advise you on the best course of action.
Underestimating Future Damages
Failing to account for future medical expenses, lost wages, and other long-term damages can leave you financially vulnerable. Our attorneys can accurately assess the full extent of your damages, including future expenses and ongoing treatment needs.
How Isaacson, Schiowitz & Korson, LLP Can Help Victims of Motorcycle Accidents Recover Maximum Damages
Detailed Investigation
Our attorneys conduct a careful investigation to gather critical evidence in support of your motorcycle accident claim. This includes:
- Scrutinizing police reports
- Collecting photos and videos from the crash site
- Interviewing witnesses
- Obtaining and analyzing surveillance footage
- Reviewing traffic camera footage and police reports
- Consulting accident reconstruction experts
Fighting the Bias Against Motorcyclists
Insurance companies and jurors may wrongly assume that motorcycle riders are reckless or irresponsible. We actively combat this bias by presenting clear, factual evidence and advocating passionately for your rights. We ensure that your case is judged on its merits, not on prejudices.
Calculating Full Compensation
We will work with medical professionals and financial experts to accurately calculate the full extent of your damages. This includes:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Speak with Our Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Nassau County
The experienced personal injury attorneys at Isaacson, Schiowitz & Korson, LLP can file your claim to obtain maximum compensation. With over 70 years of combined experience and a history of large settlements and verdicts, our award-winning law firm has the competence to handle even the most complex motorcycle accident cases. Schedule your free consultation today. Call us at 516-271-3617 or write to us online.