Rochester Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Fighting for Injured Motorcyclists Across Monroe County

Most riders are aware that riding a motorcycle is inherently riskier than driving a car. They rely on strong skills and sharp focus to help them stay safe on the road and better enjoy the ride. Unfortunately, even the most vigilant rider can suffer harm when others are negligent. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, we’ve earned a regional reputation for helping victims of negligence in the fight for justice. With decades of experience and a proven track record of success, we have what it takes to help injured motorcyclists and their families navigate the personal injury claim process and fight for the compensation they deserve. 

Our Rochester motorcycle accident attorneys offer FREE consultations and handle cases on contingency, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation. Call (855) 465-4622 to get started.

What Are the Facts About Motorcycle Accidents?

• Per vehicle miles traveled, motorcyclists are nearly 29 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of passenger vehicles, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
• 5,579 motorcycle fatalities occurred in 2020, the most recent year for which statistics are available.
• Motorcyclists accounted for 14% of all traffic fatalities in 2020, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
• 84,000 motorcyclist injuries occurred in the U.S. in 2019, at an injury rate of 975 per 100,000 registered motorcycles, as stated by the Insurance Information Institute (III).

How Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen?

Many motorcycle accidents occur because of someone else’s negligence. Common causes include:

• Unsafe lane changes: Drivers who fail to perform a head check and signal before switching lanes may collide with motorcycles in their blind spots.
• Left turns at intersections: This is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. A driver executing a left turn pulls directly into the path of an oncoming motorcycle traveling straight through the intersection on a green light.
• Dooring: A crash can occur when a driver in a parked vehicle opens a car door in the path of an oncoming motorcycle.
• Tailgating: Following too closely is dangerous driving behavior under any circumstances. When a passenger vehicle tailgates a motorcycle, it can have deadly consequences.
• Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, checking social media, applying makeup, conversing with a passenger, or otherwise distracted are more likely to cause a collision with a motorcycle.
• Impaired driving: Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Alcohol-impaired driving was involved in 34% of motorcycle fatalities in 2019, as reported by III.
• Pulling out in front of a motorcycle: A driver traveling in the same direction as a motorcycle may pull out in front, cutting off the motorcyclist and causing a crash. Some drivers who are looking for larger vehicles simply fail to register a motorcycle in the roadway.

Potential Liable Parties In A New York Motorcycle Accident Case

Determining who is liable for a motorcycle accident can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. Potential liable parties include:

• The other driver: In many cases, the driver of another vehicle is at fault for the accident, especially if they were speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent.
• The motorcycle manufacturer: If a defect in the motorcycle’s design or manufacturing contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be held liable for any resulting injuries.
• Government entities: If dangerous road conditions, such as potholes, debris, or poor signage, caused or contributed to the accident, a government agency responsible for maintaining the road may share liability.
• Commercial drivers or companies: If you were struck by a commercial vehicle, both the driver and their employer may be held liable for the accident, especially if the driver was acting within the scope of their employment at the time.

Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident to identify all responsible parties and pursue compensation from every source available.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcyclists lack the protective structure that vehicle occupants enjoy. As a result, injuries are often severe, long-lasting, and expensive to treat. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even with a helmet, riders may suffer concussions, memory issues, or long-term cognitive impairment.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can cause partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong care.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones are among the most commonly fractured bones in motorcycle crashes.
• Road Rash: Slide injuries can damage skin, nerves, and underlying tissue, leading to infection and scarring.
• Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding, organ damage, or life-threatening complications.
• Amputations: In severe cases, limbs may be crushed beyond repair or require surgical amputation.
• Soft Tissue Damage: Sprains, tears, and muscle damage often take months to heal and may lead to chronic pain.

At Horn Wright, LLP, we understand how devastating these injuries can be and how important it is to pursue the full compensation you need for long-term medical care.

New York Motorcycle Laws

New York has several motorcycle laws that can significantly affect your case. Key points include:

• Helmet and Eye Protection Requirements: All motorcyclists and passengers must wear DOT-approved helmets. Eye protection is also required unless the motorcycle has a windscreen.
• Motorcyclists and No-Fault Insurance: Unlike car drivers, motorcyclists are not covered by New York’s no-fault system. This means injured riders must pursue compensation through a liability claim—but it also means you can seek a wider range of damages, including pain and suffering.
• Motorcycle Licensing and Endorsements: Riders must have a Class M or MJ license. Failure to comply may affect your case but does not automatically prevent recovery.
• Lane Splitting Rules: Lane splitting is illegal in New York. However, this does not automatically make a motorcyclist at fault.
• Modified Exhaust Laws: New York regulates motorcycle noise levels, but violations typically do not affect liability in crash cases.

Our Rochester motorcycle accident lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected and your claim is handled properly under New York law.

Process For Filing A Motorcycle Accident Claim in New York

Filing a motorcycle accident claim in New York typically involves the following steps:

1. Report the accident: Contact law enforcement and ensure an official report is filed. This report will be essential when filing your claim.
2. Seek medical treatment: Obtain prompt medical care for your injuries and ensure that all treatments and diagnoses are documented.
3. Consult with a lawyer: A motorcycle accident attorney can assess your case, gather evidence, and advise you on your legal options.
4. Gather evidence: Your attorney will help collect crucial evidence, including police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any available video footage.
5. Negotiate with insurers: Insurance companies may try to offer a low settlement. Your attorney will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
6. File a lawsuit if necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will file a lawsuit and represent you in court to fight for the compensation you deserve.

At Horn Wright, LLP, we handle every aspect of the claims process and work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for our clients.

Damages And Compensation Available For Motorcycle Accident Claims

Motorcycle accident victims may be entitled to recover both economic and non-economic damages. These can include:

• Medical expenses: Covers past and future medical bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work and diminished earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your job.
• Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages for the physical pain and emotional suffering caused by the accident.
• Property damage: Covers the repair or replacement of your motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: Compensation for the impact the injuries have had on your ability to enjoy daily activities, hobbies, and overall quality of life.

Our attorneys work to secure full compensation for the losses you’ve suffered. We understand the toll that motorcycle accidents can take on your physical, emotional, and financial well-being, and we fight to ensure you are fairly compensated.

Rochester Motorcycle Accident FAQ

What should I do after a motorcycle accident?

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, taking the right steps afterward can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim:

1. Seek medical attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s critical to seek medical care immediately. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away, and having a medical record is essential for your claim.
2. Call the police: Report the accident to law enforcement and request a police report. This report can be a vital piece of evidence when pursuing a claim.
3. Document the scene: If possible, take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from witnesses.
4. Exchange information: Collect the other driver’s contact and insurance details but avoid discussing fault at the scene.
5. Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters: Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. It’s wise to speak with a lawyer before providing any statements to ensure your rights are protected.
6. Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer: Motorcycle accident claims can be complex, especially when determining liability. Consulting with an attorney early on helps ensure you receive fair compensation.

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in New York?

You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Wrongful death claims must be filed within two years. However, timeframes can vary, so it's critical to contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

What if the other driver says I was at fault?

New York follows comparative negligence. You can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault—your recovery is simply reduced by your percentage of fault.

Do I need a motorcycle accident attorney?

While not legally required, having an attorney dramatically improves your chances of securing maximum compensation. Motorcycle cases are complex, and insurance companies often unfairly target riders.

How much does it cost to hire Horn Wright, LLP?

You pay nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee, meaning we only get paid if we win your case.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, our Rochester motorcycle attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP are standing by to help. We’re passionate about helping victims and families following life-changing accidents and have the tools to take on even the most powerful defendants and insurance companies. 

Learn how we can fight for you during a FREE consultation. Call (855) 465-4622 or contact us online to speak with a member of our team.