As roads get busier, motorcyclists and cyclists face higher risks. Learn what to do if you’re injured in a road accident in New York.
As spring arrives in New York, warmer weather brings more motorcycles and bicycles back onto the roads. Unfortunately, it also brings a sharp increase in serious accidents. From congested streets in New York City to suburban and upstate roadways, motorcyclists and cyclists face heightened risks as traffic patterns shift and drivers adjust—or fail to adjust—to sharing the road.
May is Motorcycle & Bicycle Safety Awareness Month, making it an important time for New Yorkers to understand their legal rights if a road accident occurs.
Why Spring Is Especially Dangerous for Motorcyclists and Cyclists
After months of winter driving, many motorists are not accustomed to watching for motorcycles and bicycles. Spring also brings increased travel, construction zones, and distracted driving.
Common spring accident scenarios include drivers failing to yield, unsafe lane changes, dooring incidents in bike lanes, speeding, distracted driving, and poor road conditions.
Unlike occupants of cars, motorcyclists and cyclists have little physical protection. Even low-speed collisions can result in serious injuries.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents
Motorcycle and bicycle accidents often result in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, road rash, and internal injuries. These injuries frequently require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and time away from work.
Who Is Liable in a Motorcycle or Bicycle Accident?
Most cases are based on negligence. Drivers have a legal duty to operate vehicles safely and share the road. Liability may arise when drivers fail to yield, drive distracted, speed, or violate traffic laws.
In some cases, liability may involve government entities, construction companies, or defective equipment.
New York Laws Protecting Motorcyclists and Cyclists
New York traffic laws provide protections such as right-of-way rules, safe passing requirements, bike lane protections, and helmet laws.
What to Do After a Motorcycle or Bicycle Accident
Seek medical attention, call the police, document the scene, gather witness information, and avoid speaking with insurance companies without legal guidance.
Click here for a confidential case review evaluation from The Personal Injury Law Firm of David J. Hernandez.
Compensation Available After Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, and long-term care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after a motorcycle or bicycle accident?
Seek medical care, report the accident, document evidence, and consult a lawyer.
Who is usually at fault?
Drivers who fail to yield or drive distracted are often responsible.
Can I recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Possibly. Helmet use does not automatically bar a claim.
What compensation is available?
Medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care.
How long do I have to file a claim?
New York law imposes deadlines; consult an attorney promptly.
Serving injury victims throughout New York City, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, and communities across New York State.
