Are you a motorcycle rider navigating the streets of Queens, New York? Carrion Accident & Injury Attorneys, PLLC can help you understand how to stay safe on the road and protect your legal rights if you’ve been injured in an accident. Contact us today at (718) 550-7851 for a free consultation with a Queens motorcycle accident lawyer.
Our top-rated New York personal injury law firm brings over 50 years of combined experience to the fight for accident victims. We have recovered tens of millions of dollars for people injured by someone else’s negligence and will work just as hard for you if you hire us. Contact us today at 212-CARRION for more information and to set up a free case review.
How Carrion Accident & Injury Attorneys Can Help After a Motorcycle Crash in Queens, New York
Motorcycle accident claims in Queens, NY, are often more complicated than other vehicle accident cases because New York’s no-fault insurance system generally does not apply to motorcyclists.
If someone else’s negligence caused your crash, our Queens personal injury lawyers can help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to recover.
When you hire Carrion Accident & Injury Attorneys, PLLC, we can:
- Investigate your motorcycle accident
- Gather evidence to support your claim
- Identify all liable parties
- Work with experts when needed
- Calculate your damages
- Handle communications with the insurance company
- Negotiate for a fair settlement
- Take your case to trial if necessary
Our Queens motorcycle accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Essential Safety Tips for Motorcycle Riders in Queens
Queens presents a unique set of hazards for people on motorcycles, perhaps most prominently the poor road quality and near-constant congestion. Practicing these smart riding habits can help you reduce your risk:
Wear a DOT-Approved Helmet Every Time You Ride
New York law requires all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear a helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation standards. Novelty helmets are illegal in this state. A full-face helmet provides the best protection against traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which remain a leading cause of death in motorcycle collisions.
Choose High-Visibility Protective Gear
In addition to a helmet, wear boots that cover your ankles, padded full-finger gloves, heavy-duty riding pants, and a reinforced jacket. Bright colors and reflective materials help drivers notice you, too.
Do Not Split Lanes
It might seem like a good idea to weave between stopped cars when traffic stalls on the BQE. Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1252, however, that maneuver is illegal. Getting caught could mean fines and points on your license. If a crash happens while you are riding between lanes, it could also severely damage your ability to recover compensation.
Check Your Bike Before Heading Out
Tire pressure, tread depth, brakes, mirrors, lights, and your horn should all be inspected before every ride. One mechanical failure at a critical moment can turn an ordinary trip into a catastrophe.
Ride Like Nobody Can See You
Defensive riding is mandatory in Queens. Watch for things like vehicles making sudden turns and drivers blowing through red lights. A significant number of motorcycle crashes happen at intersections, so approach each one with caution.
Never Ride Impaired or Exhausted
Alcohol and drugs drastically raise the odds of a fatal collision. Fatigue is dangerous too. When you are on two wheels with no protection around you, every second of lost focus counts.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Queens
Even the safest riders cannot prevent every accident. Many motorcycle crashes happen because other drivers fail to notice motorcycles or disregard traffic laws. Understanding these common causes can help you stay alert on the road.
Some of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Left-turn collisions
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence
- Following too closely
- Poor road conditions or debris
Recognizing these risks can help you ride more defensively and may reduce your chances of being involved in a serious collision.
What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Accident?
The actions you take immediately after a crash can affect both your health and any future personal injury claim.
If possible, you should:
- Call 911 and report the accident.
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Photograph the accident scene and your motorcycle.
- Exchange information with the other driver.
- Obtain contact information for witnesses.
- Avoid discussing fault.
- Contact an attorney before speaking with the other driver’s insurance company.
Taking these steps can help preserve important evidence and protect your legal rights while you focus on your recovery.
Contact Our Queens Motorcycle Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation
Staying safe on a motorcycle in Queens demands constant vigilance and solid preparation. However, even the most cautious rider can be seriously hurt when another driver is careless. If that happens, trying to handle the insurance company on your own could cost you the compensation you need and deserve.
Our Queens motorcycle accident lawyers at Carrion Accident & Injury Attorneys, PLLC have more than 50 years of combined experience and are ready to go to bat for you as soon as you are. Call us today to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more.
