Poughkeepsie Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Poughkeepsie, NY, you may be entitled to financial compensation. At Basch & Keegan LLP, our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys are ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. We know how to navigate the legal system, help you understand your rights and options, and effectively advocate for our clients.

Contact us online or call (845) 251-4545 today to schedule a free case evaluation.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents involving vehicles can be devastating due to several factors that stem from the inherent vulnerabilities of motorcycles and the potential for high-impact collisions.

Unlike occupants of cars and trucks, motorcyclists have minimal protection. They lack the structural framework of a vehicle's body, airbags, seat belts, and other safety features. This leaves them more exposed to direct impact and the forces of a collision.

Furthermore, the speed and momentum of both the motorcycle and the vehicle involved in a collision contribute to the energy of impact. Since motorcycles are smaller and lighter than most vehicles, they absorb less of this energy, leading to a higher likelihood of severe injuries or fatalities.

Lastly, there's a higher likelihood of secondary collisions. After the initial impact with a vehicle, a motorcyclist might be struck by other vehicles on the road, amplifying the extent of injuries.

Here are some common causes of motorcycle accidents involving vehicles:

• Visibility Issues: Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars or trucks, making it harder for other drivers to see them, especially in blind spots. Drivers might unintentionally change lanes or turn without noticing an approaching motorcycle.
• Left-Turn Collisions: One of the most common types of accidents involving motorcycles and vehicles is when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. This can happen because the driver misjudges the motorcycle's speed or fails to notice it altogether.
• Lane Changes: Vehicles changing lanes without properly checking their mirrors or blind spots can collide with motorcycles that are already occupying the adjacent lane.
• Following Too Closely: Tailgating or following a motorcycle too closely reduces the reaction time for both the motorcyclist and the following driver. This can lead to rear-end collisions where the vehicle strikes the motorcycle from behind.
• Distracted Driving: Drivers distracted by their phones, in-car entertainment systems, or other activities are less likely to notice motorcycles, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Speeding: Speeding reduces a driver's ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions. When vehicles travel at high speeds, they have less time to respond to motorcycles that might appear suddenly.
• Intoxication: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and diminished coordination, making them more likely to cause accidents involving motorcycles.
• Failure to Yield Right of Way: Drivers who fail to yield the right of way to motorcycles at intersections or when merging onto highways can cause serious accidents.
• Dooring Accidents: When a driver or passenger in a parked vehicle opens their door without checking for approaching motorcycles, the motorcyclist might collide with the door, leading to a crash.
• Road Conditions: Uneven road surfaces, potholes, debris, and slippery conditions can be more hazardous for motorcycles due to their smaller tires and less stable design.
• Sudden Stops: A vehicle abruptly stopping in front of a motorcycle may not give the motorcyclist enough time to react, leading to a rear-end collision.
• Inexperience: Inexperienced motorcyclists might struggle to handle unexpected situations or might not have developed the defensive driving skills necessary to anticipate and avoid potential accidents involving vehicles.

Who is Liable for a Motorcycle Accident?

A motorcycle accident refers to any collision involving a motorcycle, either with another vehicle, a fixed object, or a pedestrian. These accidents can result in varying degrees of damage, injury, and even fatalities.

Here are some common types of motorcycle accidents:

• Left-Turn Accidents: One of the most common types of motorcycle accidents occurs when a car or other vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. This can happen at intersections, driveways, or when merging onto a road.
• Lane-Changing Accidents: These accidents occur when a vehicle changes lanes without properly checking blind spots, colliding with a motorcycle that is already occupying the adjacent lane.
• Rear-End Collisions: Just like with cars, motorcycles can also be rear-ended by other vehicles. These accidents often happen at intersections, stoplights, or in heavy traffic when the vehicle behind fails to stop in time.
• Sideswipe Accidents: Sideswipe accidents occur when a vehicle strikes the side of a motorcycle while passing or changing lanes. These accidents can happen due to driver distraction, aggressive driving, or failure to check blind spots.
• Dooring Accidents: Dooring accidents happen when a driver or passenger in a parked vehicle opens their door into the path of an oncoming motorcycle, causing a collision.
• Single-Vehicle Accidents: Not all motorcycle accidents involve other vehicles. Single-vehicle accidents occur when a motorcyclist loses control and crashes into a fixed object, such as a guardrail, tree, or road sign.
• Road Hazard Accidents: Road hazards such as potholes, debris, gravel, or uneven pavement can cause motorcycles to skid or lose control, leading to accidents.
• Impaired Driving Accidents: Accidents involving alcohol or drug impairment can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, as impaired judgment and reduced coordination increase the risk of collisions.

Legal Challenges Bikers Face in NY

Motorcyclists in New York may face several legal challenges when seeking compensation for accidents. Here are some of the key hurdles:

• Bias Against Motorcyclists: Unfortunately, there can be a bias against motorcyclists among jurors, insurance adjusters, and even law enforcement. Some may perceive motorcyclists as inherently reckless or assume they are at fault in accidents, making it more challenging for them to prove their case.
• No-Fault Insurance Laws: New York is a no-fault insurance state, meaning that regardless of who caused the accident, each party's own insurance typically covers their medical expenses and lost wages. However, no-fault benefits may not fully compensate motorcyclists for their injuries, especially if they suffer serious or permanent injuries.
• Comparative Negligence Laws: New York follows a comparative negligence system, where compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to the injured party. If the motorcyclist is found partially at fault for the accident, their compensation may be reduced accordingly.
• Insurance Coverage: Motorcyclists may face challenges in obtaining adequate insurance coverage, particularly for injuries and property damage. Some insurance policies may exclude coverage for motorcycle accidents altogether, leaving riders vulnerable in the event of a crash.
• Complex Legal Process: Personal injury claims arising from motorcycle accidents can be complex and time-consuming. Motorcyclists may struggle to navigate the legal process on their own, especially if they are dealing with serious injuries or disabilities.
• High Medical Costs: Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection afforded by motorcycles compared to other vehicles. The high medical costs associated with these injuries can make it difficult for motorcyclists to recover full compensation, particularly if they have limited insurance coverage.
• Statute of Limitations: In New York, there is a statute of limitations, or time limit, for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Motorcyclists must file their claim within this timeframe, typically three years from the date of the accident, or they risk losing their right to seek compensation.

Given these challenges, motorcyclists involved in accidents in New York may benefit from seeking legal representation from experienced personal injury attorneys who understand the nuances of motorcycle accident cases in the state. Our firm can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Poughkeepsie Can Help

After a motorcycle accident, you may be dealing with a great deal of uncertainty and confusion. You may be unsure of how to proceed with your medical treatment and how to manage the expenses that have arisen as a result of your injuries.

At Basch & Keegan LLP, our Poughkeepsie motorcycle accident attorneys are here to help you through this difficult time. We will work to hold the liable party accountable for the harm they caused and can help you recover your entitled compensation. No matter what, you can count on our team to fight for you.

Our legal team can help you recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Physical and emotional pain and suffering
• Punitive damages

For a free consultation, call (845) 251-4545 or contact us online.