If someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions caused a motorcycle accident in Queens that hurt you or a family member, a Queens motorcycle accident lawyer from The Perecman Firm PLLC is here to fight for your rights and help you navigate the complex legal process ahead. We understand the unique challenges you face as a motorcyclist on New York's busy streets and the considerable impact a motorcycle crash has had on your life. We're committed to helping you get the compensation needed to cover your medical bills, emotional trauma, and other damages resulting from the crash. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help.
Why Choose The Perecman Firm PLLC for Your Queens Motorcycle Accident Claim
You deserve top-notch legal counsel when navigating a Queens motorcycle accident claim. Some aspects of our firm that set us apart from other personal injury law firms include:- Local knowledge and experience: Our deep roots in Queens give us an invaluable edge in handling your case. We know the streets where your accident occurred, the local traffic patterns, and the specific challenges motorcyclists face in our borough. This intimate understanding of the local landscape allows us to build stronger cases and anticipate potential obstacles.
- Understanding of New York's motorcycle laws: New York's motorcycle laws can be complicated and ever-changing. Our team stays current on all relevant legislation so that we leverage every applicable law to strengthen your claim. From helmet laws to right-of-way regulations, we use our comprehensive knowledge to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
- Proven track record of success: Throughout our history, we’ve recovered more than $500,000,000 in total compensation for our clients. While past results don’t guarantee an outcome, they do show our commitment to pursuing the best possible results.
- Awards and honors: Our firm's commitment to excellence has earned us awards and honors from numerous legal organizations, including Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, and the National Trial Lawyers. These accolades reflect how our peers and clients trust in our abilities.
- Personalized attention and care for clients: At The Perecman Firm PLLC, you're not just another case number. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your needs, and tailor our approach to your unique situation. Our attorneys are always accessible, providing regular updates and answering your questions promptly. We believe in building strong relationships with our clients, offering not just legal representation but also emotional support during this challenging time.
How Our Attorneys Can Help You Recover Damages After a Queens Motorcycle Accident
Our skilled attorneys at The Perecman Firm PLLC are here to guide you through every step of the legal process with compassion and dignity. To ensure we give you the best possible chance of recovering the full compensation you need, we can:- Conduct a comprehensive investigation of your accident and gather all necessary evidence to support your claim
- Handle all communications with insurance companies and ensure they treat you fairly
- Accurately calculate the true value of your claim along with compensation you made need in the future
- Negotiate assertively to obtain a fair settlement from the insurance companies
- Take your case to trial if the at-fault parties won’t offer a fair settlement or act in bad faith
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents in Queens?
While motorcyclists are often unfairly stereotyped as reckless, the truth is that many accidents result from factors beyond the rider's control. Some of the most frequent causes of motorcycle accidents in Queens we see include:- Distracted driving: Drivers who take their eyes off the road, even for a moment, may fail to notice a motorcyclist, leading to devastating collisions.
- Failure to yield right-of-way: Many accidents occur when other drivers fail to yield the right-of-way to motorcyclists at intersections or when changing lanes.
- Unsafe lane changes: Drivers who change lanes without properly checking their blind spots can easily collide with motorcyclists, who may be less visible due to their smaller size.
- Speeding and aggressive driving: When other drivers exceed speed limits or engage in aggressive behaviors like tailgating or weaving through traffic, they put motorcyclists at increased risk of accidents.
- Impaired driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have impaired judgment and slower reaction times, making them more likely to cause accidents with motorcycles.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, debris, or inadequate signage can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. Government entities responsible for road maintenance may be held liable in these cases.
- Defective motorcycle parts: Sometimes, faulty motorcycle components cause motorcycle crashes, such as brakes, tires, or steering systems. In these cases, your attorney could hold the manufacturer or distributor of the defective part responsible.
- Dooring incidents: When parked drivers or passengers open their car doors without checking for oncoming traffic, motorcyclists can collide with the suddenly opened door and sustain serious injuries.
- Left-turn accidents: One of the most common and dangerous scenarios for motorcyclists occurs when a car makes a left turn in front of them. These collisions occur because the car driver either fails to see the bike or misjudges its speed.
Queens Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the limited protection riders have compared to occupants of enclosed vehicles. Some common injuries suffered in Queens motorcycle accidents include:- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), even with helmet use
- Spinal cord injuries
- Road rash
- Fractures and broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Amputations
- Psychological trauma
- Burn injuries
- Facial injuries
Motorcycle Accident Statistics for Queens and New York
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents on the crowded streets of Queens, the New York City Police Department (NYPD) reported 408 motorcycle crashes citywide in the first five months of the year, with 138 of those accidents occurring in Queens. Reports list the most common causes of motorcycle accidents as:- Driver inattention/distraction
- Following too closely
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Improper passing/lane usage
- Unsafe speed
Queens Motorcycle Accident FAQs
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident in Queens?
First and foremost, get medical attention. Even if you feel fine, get a medical evaluation immediately to rule out internal injuries and provide documentation for an injury claim.
Call the police to file a report, gather contact and insurance information from all parties involved, and document the scene with photos if possible. Don't admit fault or discuss the accident details with anyone except the police. Contact a Queens motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Queens?
In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit in court is generally three years from the accident date. However, act promptly. Contacting an attorney early can help preserve evidence and strengthen your case. For wrongful death claims, you have only two years in New York to file suit.
What compensation can I recover in a Queens motorcycle accident case?
You may recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases of severe injuries, you might also recover compensation for future medical care and lost earning capacity.
What if I was partially at fault for the motorcycle accident?
New York follows a "pure comparative negligence" rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, but your percentage of fault will reduce your compensation. Our attorneys will work to minimize any assigned fault and maximize your recovery.
Do I need a lawyer if the insurance company offers me a settlement?
It's highly advisable to consult with a lawyer before accepting any settlement offer. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly and for less than your claim is worth. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can evaluate the true value of your claim and negotiate for fair compensation.
How much does hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer from The Perecman Firm PLLC cost?
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case, and our fee is a percentage of the compensation we secure for you. This arrangement allows you to access quality legal representation without financial risk.
What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?
If an uninsured driver hits you, you may still have options for compensation. This could include filing a claim under your own uninsured motorist coverage or pursuing a personal lawsuit against the at-fault driver. Our attorneys can help you explore all available avenues for recovery.
How long will my motorcycle accident case take to resolve?
The duration of your case depends on various factors, including the complexity of the accident, the severity of your injuries, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. While some cases resolve in a few months, others may take a year or more. We strive to resolve your case as efficiently as possible while ensuring you receive fair compensation.
What if my loved one died in a Queens motorcycle accident?
If you've lost a family member in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim. This can help recover damages such as funeral expenses, lost financial support, and loss of companionship. Our compassionate attorneys can guide you through this difficult process.