The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can reveal an injured rider and, possibly, a passenger. The bike rider and passenger’s only protection are their helmets and clothing. The frequency of serious injury and death in motorcycle accidents continues to increase. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the number of injured motorcyclists went up from 88,000 in 2013 to 92,000 in 2014, a 4.5% increase.
Motorcycle accidents are a significant concern in New York due to the high population density and heavy traffic conditions. According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), in 2022, there were over 4,500 motorcycle crashes across the state, resulting in more than 150 fatalities and thousands of injuries. These numbers highlight the dangers that motorcyclists face on New York's roads, where they are often more vulnerable than other vehicle occupants.
Motorcyclists are at a higher risk of sustaining severe injuries or fatalities in accidents due to the lack of protective barriers. The DMV's 2022 report shows that approximately 80% of motorcycle crashes result in injury or death. Among these, head injuries are particularly prevalent, often due to the rider not wearing a helmet or the helmet not meeting safety standards.
Certain areas in New York, particularly in New York City, are hotspots for motorcycle accidents. The city's congested streets and aggressive driving culture contribute to a higher incidence of motorcycle crashes. Data from the NYC Department of Transportation indicates that intersections are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, accounting for nearly half of all motorcycle accidents in the city.
Speeding, alcohol use, and driver inattention are among the leading causes of motorcycle accidents in New York. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol was a factor in nearly 30% of fatal motorcycle crashes in New York in 2021. Speeding is another major factor, contributing to over 40% of fatal crashes involving motorcycles.
The age and experience level of the motorcyclist also plays a role in accident rates. Younger riders, particularly those aged 18-29, are more likely to be involved in accidents, often due to a lack of experience or risky driving behaviors. Conversely, older riders, while generally more experienced, are still at risk, particularly in accidents involving other vehicles where the motorcyclist is not at fault.
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV):
https://dmv.ny.gov/records/statistical-data
New York City Department of Transportation:
https://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/downloads/pdf/nyc-motorcycle-safety-study.pdf
Buying the proper motorcycle accessories and safety gear can greatly reduce injuries that may result from an accident. Wearing a helmet not approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT) can affect the awarded amount in a case involving a head injury.
The loss of income, as well as cumulative medical bills over a lifetime, can total millions of dollars. All this is in addition to pain and suffering, rehabilitation, and occupational retraining.
Motorcyclists often face inherent biases in the legal system and public perception. These biases stem from several stereotypes, including the belief that motorcyclists are reckless or engage in dangerous behavior more frequently than drivers of other vehicles. Such prejudices can impact how insurance companies, juries, and even law enforcement perceive motorcycle accidents. This can lead to unfair treatment and diminished compensation for injured motorcyclists.
Michael S. Lamonsoff, known as "The Bull," leverages his aggressive advocacy and formidable courtroom reputation to counteract these biases. His approach involves preparing every case as if it will go to trial, forcing insurance companies to confront the real possibility of a courtroom battle. By doing so, Lamonsoff ensures that the full extent of the injuries and damages sustained by motorcyclists is recognized and compensated fairly.
One of the critical steps in fighting biases and ensuring fair treatment is collecting comprehensive and compelling evidence. Our team meticulously gathers all relevant information, including accident reports, witness statements, and physical evidence from the scene. We also obtain medical records, photographs of injuries, and expert testimony to build a solid case. By presenting a thorough and detailed account of the accident and its aftermath, we counteract any assumptions or biases that might arise against motorcyclists.
Attorney Michael Lamonsoff "The Bull" has the skills, experience and resources to fight and dismantle the negative stereotypes motorcyclists face. Our legal team will present evidence of your responsible riding behavior to challenge the defendant's claims. This includes proving adherence to traffic laws, proper use of safety gear, and a clean driving record. By highlighting your commitment to safe riding practices, we will counteract any unfair biases that might influence the outcome of your case.
To further counteract biases, we focus on demonstrating that you were a responsible rider at the time of the accident. This involves presenting evidence such as maintenance records for your motorcycle, proof of safety training courses, surveillance camera footage (if available), and witness testimonies that confirm your responsible behavior. Our goal is to shift the narrative away from negative stereotypes and emphasize your commitment to safe riding practices.
Insurance companies will attempt to minimize payouts for motorcycle accidents due to the prevalent biases and misconceptions about motorcyclists. Our approach involves negotiating aggressively with insurers to ensure that you receive fair compensation. We will present comprehensive evidence and demonstrate the full extent of your injuries and damages to counter any attempts to undervalue your claim. By taking a strong stance in negotiations, we work to obtain the compensation you deserve.
While most cases settle out of court, we prepare every case as if it were going to trial. Insurance companies are aware that our firm is prepared to fight vigorously in court, which can lead to more favorable settlement offers. Our proactive trial preparation includes developing a robust case strategy, preparing witnesses, hiring automotive experts and accident reconstructionists, and conducting thorough legal research. This approach not only strengthens our negotiating position but also ensures that we are fully prepared to present a compelling case if a trial becomes necessary.
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