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Motorcycle accidents are a growing public health concern in the United States, and rightfully so. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that each year thousands of people are killed in motorcycle accidents, and crashed-related expenses exceed $11.9 billion. With the above information in mind, it's clear that there is cause for concern for the road users who drive motorcycles in Long Island.
If someone wants to shed some light on these growing public health concerns and discuss a motorcycle accident injury; it's good to properly understand statistics, insurance, fault, common motorcycle accident injuries, causes of a motorcycle accident, and understanding motorcycle rights. A Long Island motorcycle accidents lawyer can help bikers with a free consultation if they find themselves in a sticky collision situation.
One of the most severe issues on the road today is motorcycle accidents. Even though car drivers generally walkway from a typical automobile accident, motorcyclists are not always that lucky. The absence of an enclosed metal structure, airbags, and seat belts put riders at risk each time they decide to hit the tarmac. If a person needs representation or assistance after an accident, it may be best to contact a Law Office of Carl Maltese lawyer to find out how they can help.
With a professional by the victim's side, they can get back to recovery, while a lawyer with an excellent attorney-client relationship can handle all processes and financial recovery confidentially. The legal team at the Law Office of Carl Maltese offers a free legal consultation and can help get to the bottom of even the most catastrophic injuries. Each lawyer at the law firm has extensive experience dealing with economists, life care planners, crash experts, and insurance companies. They can ensure that the injured parties involved receive the money for medical expenses they are entitled to.
How to Select the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
If a person has been involved in a motorcycle accident, they are likely searching for an attorney to assist them in receiving the recovery they deserve. This process can be rather challenging, but it certainly doesn't have to be. People can make an educated decision by asking the right questions.
The Law Office of Carl Maltese is happy to discuss any questions victims may have; when looking for a lawyer, it's essential to find one with a solid reputation, years of experience, and a Long Island attorney who will discuss financial recovery and contractual issues.
Experience
Nothing beats experience in the Long Island legal system. An individual wants a lawyer that won't be shocked by their case's details. The Law Office of Carl Maltese's attorneys have combined experience of over 100 years and can help with any personal injury cases that may be handed to them. The legal team has seen every kind of claim imaginable yet knows that no two cases have a similar outcome.
The lawyers at the Law Office of Carl Maltese have experience and a clear understanding of the degree of injury bike riders experience, the causes of Long Island motorcycle accidents, and a distinct understanding of motorcycle handling. They are confident enough to handle any situation because they understand no bike accidents are the same. It is common to see Long Island accidents involving falling asleep at the wheel, driving under the influence, rear-end collisions, failure to signal, turning in front of oncoming traffic, and lane crowding.
Reputation
Reputation is crucially imperative in the legal system in any field today. The attorneys at the Law Office of Carl Maltese have the highest rating for ethics regarding Long Island motorcycle accidents. Looking at Maltese's referrals and accolades can give victims the confidence they need when dealing with a professional Long Island lawyer.
How Can The Law Office of Carl Maltese Put Its Experience to Work for Accident Victims?
The Law Office of Carl Maltese understands that motorcycle accident victims face multiple difficulties while they recover. With that realization in mind, it works with the driver in a forthright and honest manner to collect facts about the event. Those facts are used to determine whether the driver has grounds for a personal injury claim and confront all parties involved. Letting a lawyer represent the person allows them to focus on healing and have a little relief from financial recovery.
Some of the ways lawyers can serve a motorcycle accident victim:
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Representing the case in trial
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Complying with New York law and its deadline for filing a lawsuit
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Negotiating for an appropriate settlement
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Dealing with the communication between the other party's representative and the injured motorcyclists
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Identify and start a suit against negligent parties
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Interviewing expert witnesses (accident reconstruction analysts, doctors, lawyers, etc.) and eyewitnesses
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Hunting down relevant evidence
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Obtaining a copy of the accident report
Rated a 5-Star Lawyer In Long Island
Alex Maltese and his firm are first class and they always made you feel as if you were their only client. The communication was always timely, professional and courteous. I can't thank them enough.
- Dina V.
You always know that the entire staff truly cares. I am extremely pleased with my settlement and thankful that they helped make an unpleasant experience more than bearable.
- John D.
Alex Maltese is a professional and compassionate attorney. I never felt as if I was a burden. He always answered my questions in a timely manner. The attorneys and staff are accommodating.
- Alex D.
What Are the Most Common Long Island Motorcycle Accident Injuries?
The resulting injuries are usually more severe even though accidents involving motorcycles are not as common as car accidents. Common motorcycle-related injuries include cuts, concussions, strains, fractures, and contusions. These injuries can cause severe and even permanent damages and are often the result of the impact on the road's surface.
Motorcyclists are open and exposed, while automobiles have the luxury of a metal cage, seat belts, and multiple airbags. Some are more common than others, but the list of possible injuries is extensive. A new study performed in the US showed what the top five diagnoses of motorcycle related hospitals visit are:
Fractures
Fractures are a regular sight at motorcycle accident scenes because riders are often thrown off their bikes. The reason fractures occur is due to the body's impact with another vehicle, the pavement, or the tarmac.
If the impact of the fall includes excessive force, it may lead to a clean break of the ribs, arms, or legs. Fractures to the above appendages are frequently seen in emergency rooms following a Long Island motorcycle accident. Additional damage is caused to the nerves, ligaments, skin, and tendons if the bone does end up breaking.
Open Wounds
Road rash and open wounds are seen in more than 15% of Long Island cases. These wounds generally occur due to the friction rubbing off portions of the skin when hitting the ground at high speeds, resulting in permanent damage and infection if not properly treated.
Contusions
Commonly known as bruises, contusions come in second place for the most frequently seen injury. Bruising is most dangerous when it involves the head, but can occur in any part of the body. Traumatic head injuries are the leading cause of disability and death in motorcycle crashes. It is important to note that the law requires motorcyclists to wear helmets to shield themselves against head trauma in New York.
Sprains and Strains
Strains and sprains are number three of the most common motorcycle accident-related injuries. Joints can be damaged by landing awkwardly because riders are often thrown off their bikes in a Long Island motorcycle accident.
The neck, fingers, knees, and ankles are where sprains often occur. Strains happen when the muscles stretch beyond their usual limitations, and the body is contoured in an unnatural position.
Superficial Injuries
Minor marks, lacerations, and cuts are known as superficial injuries. These should be dealt with appropriately and still require attention even though they are less severe than other injuries.
Superficial injuries are generally found in the hands or the lower extremities, and they can come with their fair share of problems. The most common are open wounds, superficial wounds, sprains and strains, contusions, and fractures, but these don't make up the extensive list of other injuries.
A motorcyclist should understand the types of injuries that could result from a bike accident on the road and be fully aware of the risks involved when riding.
Dealing with an Insurance Company After Motorcycle Accidents
Serious motorcycle accident injuries can mean medical expenses that amount to thousands of dollars. If someone is not at fault, they should not be responsible for the cost of treatment. Motorcycle accident lawyers can help and fight to get the compensation the victim deserves so that they are not left dealing with medical bills on their own.
It typically requires accurate calculations and estimates to pay for medical expenses and bills via an insurance company. With years of experience dealing with insurance companies, a motorcycle accident lawyer can help to accurately quantify the costs the person faces by calculating pain and suffering, lost wages, past bills, and future medical treatment.
The Long Island attorneys provide future costs the individual can expect to face and an accurate medical prognosis of their condition. They can do this because they have worked with experienced life care planners, economists, and medical professionals for years. Here is a look at the types of compensation a person can receive after they have a motorcycle accident in:
Costs of Motorcycle Accidents
According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the medical expense, especially with a severe motorcycle accident, depends on many factors. If the rider suffered fatal wounds and wore a helmet, an average hospital bill may be around $13,000.
Say, for example, the rider was not wearing a helmet and suffered fatal injuries during the motorcycle crash; the average price would increase to around $15,900. Medical bills account for six percent of expenses related to motorcycle crashes while suffering is 63%, and lost wages account for $29.
It is essential to let these motorcycle statistics remind people to practice responsibility and safety. If someone is unfortunate for being involved in a Long Island motorcycle crash, the best thing to do is contact a Long Island motorcycle accident attorney for assistance. With years of experience, motorcycle accident lawyers can help people understand the complicated processes determining fault and liability, deal with insurance companies on the client's behalf, and claim lost wages.
What Are the Main Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
They are much more likely to result in serious injuries or death, even though motorcycle accidents are no more common than automobile collisions. Everyone must understand the common causes of Long Island motorcycle accidents because of the increased safety risk. A better understanding can help prevent calamity in the future if a person is a biker. If someone is a car driver, this insight can assist them in becoming more aware of what is going on while navigating the road.
Blind Spots
They are much more likely to result in serious injuries or death, even though motorcycle accidents are no more common than automobile collisions. Everyone must understand the common causes of Long Island motorcycle accidents because of the increased safety risk. A better understanding can help prevent calamity in the future if a person is a biker. If someone is a car driver, this insight can assist them in becoming more aware of what is going on while navigating the road.
Cars Making Left-Hand Turns
Typically a driver does not notice the presence of another object because they are looking for other vehicles only. Due to their inability to detect motorcycles, a driver may often make the error of turning left in front of a motorcycle operator.
While operating a vehicle, drivers should make an effort to be more aware of motorcycles, and motorcyclists should check for signs that an automobile is getting ready to make a left turn.
Open Door Accidents
Open door accidents are pretty common in busy cities like Long Island. Motorcyclists must leave space between vehicles and be aware of parked cars. Motorists in parked vehicles generally keep an eye out for oncoming cars, not motorcycles, when opening their doors.
Dozen more exist even though these are the five primary causes of motorcycle accidents. Motorcycle accidents are a hazard to anyone involved, whether it's an unnecessary distraction, alcohol use, or a failure to signal. People must avoid situations that could be life-threatening or dangerous and practice proper safety.
Speeding
Speeding is a major cause of motorcycle accidents, even though it may seem obvious. It is especially hazardous to motorcycle riders and drivers, even though speeding is dangerous for any vehicle.
The fact that someone is only riding on two wheels instead of four means an increased risk of sliding and less stability. Rough surfaces and sharp turns increase the dangers of driving at excessive speeds.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting still occurs even though it is not legal in most states. This often causes a car accident because automobiles are not anticipating lane splitting, drivers have reduced space to maneuver, and the proximity of both vehicles is minimal.
Motorcyclists should pay scrupulous notice to state laws and know that lane splitting can lead to accidents, serious injuries, and is dangerous even when permitted.
Past and Future Medical Bills
Depending on the severity of the injuries, medical treatment can be extremely costly. Medical treatment in cases involving spinal cord injuries and head trauma can last for the rest of an individual's life.
In order to ensure that the person receives the proper settlement for all their medical bills, including future and present bills, a motorcycle accident lawyer can deal with the responsible party's insurance after the accident.
Below are the present and future bills that are covered:
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Assistive devices (Wheelchairs)
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Follow up appointments
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Medications
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Diagnostic exams (MRIs, x-rays, bloodwork, etc.)
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Hospitalization
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Surgeries
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Emergency transportation
Loss of Wages
A person can be left unable to work for an extended period after they are left with serious injuries, resulting in a loss of future and current income. An attorney from the Law Office of Carl Maltese will deal with all necessary parties so that the loss of wages of the victim can be determined. A motorcycle accident injury should not be the downfall of a person's professional life.
Pain and Suffering
Those involved can often suffer physical pain and emotional distress because of a motorcycle accident injury. In order to alleviate some of that pain, a motorcycle accident lawyer can assist people with seeking damages.
If someone has been involved in a motorcycle accident it's best not to fight the battle alone. Insurance companies can be challenging to deal with after a motorcycle crash; it is recommended that a lawyer handle that part of the process. They can fight on behalf of the victim and are willing to make sure that the injured party does not miss out on any reimbursements or settlements they deserve.
Whether someone doesn't know where to start or feels that an insurance company has mistreated them, the Law Office of Carl Maltese will help them navigate the daunting procedure. People shouldn't let law and complicated policies hold them back; an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can fully represent the person's interests and know exactly how insurance companies work.
Who Is at Fault?
Dealing with a lawyer who will work with victims to ensure they receive fair representation every step of the way and understand motorcycle rights is the best choice for victims.
There always seems to be one key question asked in any Long Island accident: "Who is at fault?" The blame is often shifted to motorcyclists for no reason in some motorcycle accidents. Even so, other drivers' claims usually state that they are not to blame, but that is not always true. That is where a lawyer from the Law Office of Carl Maltese Long Island legal team can assist; these motorcycle accident attorneys understand the problems with responsibility and liability.
Each lawyer will not rest until the case is resolved and makes sure every witness has a chance to explain their understanding of the facts of the accident. Some common factors can help answer the questions "Whose fault is it?" even though no two situations are alike.
Unsafe Road Conditions
The Long Island state owes motorists the ability to drive their cars under safe road conditions. If there are dangerous road conditions or excessive wear to a particular part of the road, liability could be shifted to the state. Unsafe road conditions include overgrown trees, construction refuse, unevenly paved roads, unsigned curves, obstructed traffic signs, and potholes.
If someone notices unsafe road conditions where they travel regularly, it may be a good idea to contact the appropriate authorities straight away.
Manufacturing Errors
A Long Island motorcycle accident can result from a manufacturer error involving many causes, including an improper setup, malfunctioning part, or a leaking fuel line. No injured motorcyclists should pay for damages in a motorcycle accident case like this.
Motorist Negligence
Motorist negligence refers to reckless or careless behavior on the driver's part. This behavior includes traveling at an excessive speed for traffic conditions, driving under the influence, failing to yield to the right of way, and the driver not noticing the motorcyclist. Any of the above cases or a combination of them can prove a driver's negligence.
Generally, motorcycle accident attorneys would seek to prove the other party's negligence by showing that the person was responsible for safely driving their automobile, but they did not perform that task correctly. This resulted in them causing the injury, and the victim suffered because of it. A free consultation with a Long Island attorney can help victims determine the eligibility of their case.
The motorcycle accident attorneys at the Law Office of Carl Maltese use their many years of experience to ensure all victims' cases receive the attention they deserve. Whether someone feels as though their Long Island motorcycle accident resulted from unsafe road conditions, manufacturing errors, or motorist negligence, the firm will work with them to get the required outcome. If a person is involved in a Long Island motorcycle accident, they must record conversations, document the scene, and take notes whenever possible.
Providing an answer to the question "Who is at fault?" is often challenging, but it doesn't have to be. A Long Island lawyer can do their best to ensure that these questions are answered honestly and fairly. In order to better understand motorcycle accidents, people need to educate themselves about motorcycle rights in their state. If someone requires more information on the right in New York, it would be best to visit the American Motorcycle Association website.
State of "New Right" Legal Rights
There are specific laws set out for both off-road and road biking in Long Island, New York. A correct understanding of these rights and laws is essential to each biker on the road. Below are a few primary laws to be aware of when motorcycle drivers are commuting:
On-Road
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Turn signals are required for motorcycles manufactured in or after 1985
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Safety elements are required
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If carrying a passenger, a footrest is required
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No straight pipes are allowed, and mufflers are required
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Motorcycles may operate two abreast in the same lane
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Lane splitting is not allowed
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A Helmet speaker may only contain a single earphone
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grips or handlebars must be equal to or lower than the operator's shoulders
Off-Road
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Operators between 10 and 16 years of age must have a riders education certification
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No sound limits
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Headlights are required after sunset
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Eye protection is not required
Motorcycle Rights Groups
In Nassau County, motorcycle accident rights are regularly being challenged. Multiple organizations help fellow bikers understand the law and work to defend these rights. People deserve maximum compensation if they receive a serious injury from a motorcycle accident that is not their fault. A political activist group known as The New York Freedom Riders is dedicated to restoring freedoms and protecting the rights of Long Island bikers.
The group's goal is to elect lawmakers to ensure that Long Island motorcycle operators' issues are supported.
Another conglomerate that works to educate American bikers about their safety and right is the ABATE of New York. Its primary purpose is to promote commending motorcycle legislation regarding noise levels, emissions, restrictions, bans, modifications, licensing, and insurance.
Additionally, ABATE also seeks to warn the Department of Transportation of hazardous roadway conditions, promote positive community relationships, and prevent motorcycle crashes through education.
The American Motorcycle Association (AMA) works to promote safety and rights across the nation. More than $100,000 has been contributed by AMA to help study motorcycle accident cases.
A person's rights are constantly being challenged as a motorcyclist. By making themselves aware of the legislation, laws, and rules surrounding these problems, someone can better fight for their freedoms. It is suitable for people to educate themselves and check out their local state laws to find out more information.
Law Office of Carl Maltese Take Motorcycle Accident Cases on a Contingency Fee Basis
A person may be hesitant to hire an attorney due to the costs after reviewing the list of services lawyers serving Long Island can provide for the individual and their family. Luckily, they don't have to worry about that since the Law Office of Carl Maltese works on a contingency fee basis, meaning that it doesn't charge anything for the following:
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Hourly fees
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Out of pocket expenses
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Upfront costs
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Retainers
Once the injured person is deemed a good fit, a motorcycle accident attorney will begin working on their case diligently to get to the bottom of it. There won't be any surprises or risks in the legal process because motorcycle accident lawyers will work on a contingency fee that gets taken out of the compensation awarded to the victim. This means that both parties will walk away empty-handed if the case doesn't end in their favor.
Motorcycle Accident Victims Statistics
While other traffic fatalities have fallen by around 25%, motorcycle accidents and fatal injuries are rising in the United States. With no cap in sight, motorcycle fatalities seem to increase every year. Drivers must work together to reduce the number of car accidents on the road and understand the causes of motorcycle accidents.
Center for Disease Control and Prevention Report
There are regular reports on crash statistics and motorcycle safety produced by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A recent study was performed that found this information specifically essential:
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Motorcycle crashes killed over 5000 dead people in 2019 in the United States alone.
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There has been an increase in death caused by motorcycle accidents by 60% since 2010
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Monthly crash-related fatalities and injuries cost the nation $12 billion in medical costs and productivity losses
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During 2001 and 2008, 35,000 motorcyclists were killed, showing a 55% increase in death rate.
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More than 1,2 million people were treated for severe injuries related to a motorcycle accident during the above time in seven years.
NHTS Findings
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTS) performed a study in 2010 that estimated over 700 motorcycle deaths could have been avoided if the person had been wearing a helmet. Another thing the community noticed is that alcohol was the leading factor in 29% of those cases. Other instances include the rider speed, which was the case of 35% of the above incidents. Some other interesting findings include but are not limited to:
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Helmets are believed to reduce the likelihood of a collision fatality by 37%
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Head trauma is the leading cause of death in a motorcycle accident
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More than 10% of all roadway accidents in the US involve motorcycles
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Motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to die from a motorcycle accident than the driver of a passenger automobile
Choosing the Right Long Island Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The legal system can be complicated and confusing, especially after someone has a motorcycle accident. A motorcycle accident lawyer can assist victims in Nassau Country arrange compensation for lost wages or getting a settlement for medical expenses.
Motorcycle accident injuries are never a fun experience for anyone involved; that is why it is crucial to speak to experienced motorcycle accident lawyers through a free consultation. A motorcycle accidents lawyer is fully aware of all the nitty-gritty details of these particular cases and knows how to deal with car accident insurance companies.
The Law Office of Carl Maltese can offer a free consultation to anyone who has been in a motorcycle crash that involved another motor vehicle. People need to let a motorcycle accident lawyer take care of the entire legal process for them and seek compensation for their injuries.
Contact Our Office Today
Anyone who has been in a car accident in Long Island should contact The Law Office of Carl Maltese today. There is a free case evaluation available, so everyone has a chance to speak to a professional. All clients will have a conversation with a professional who wants to know what has happened and help.
Additionally, all clients will have contact with compassionate attorneys who are understanding of the turbulent times they are going through. Clients will leave knowing exactly what to expect from the team at The Law Office of Carl Maltese. The team will work hard and diligently to ensure that every client receives the proper care they deserve, and they will do their best to get adequate compensation.