There is a mandatory helmet law in New York State. However, an individual may seek compensation for their injuries, if the other driver was mostly or completely at fault. The potential compensation would be based on whether the same injuries could have taken place even if the injured party was wearing the mandatory safety gear. For specific cases, it is best to speak to an experienced attorney to understand whether any compensation might be awarded.
It is usually in one’s best interest to seek the help of an experienced attorney in the event of a motorcycle accident. To begin, injured individuals who hire legal representation statistically receive more in compensation than those who do not. It is essential that one’s rights are defended by someone who knows the law and has seen a number of similar cases. An experienced lawyer will help with negotiating directly with the insurance company to get the most possible compensation. Because insurance companies use various strategies to minimize the amount they pay in injury claims, an experienced attorney will use their experience to find the best solutions quickly and in the best interest of their client.
If you got into a motorcycle accident and are contacted by an insurance company representative, it is strongly recommended not to discuss the details of the accident. This information may later be used against you in the court of law. A good practice is to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer before speaking to anyone from the insurance company.
If you get into a motorcycle accident, we advise you to speak to the police as soon as possible. Prior to the police’s arrival, you should also exchange insurance and contact information with the other people involved in the accident. It is also generally a good idea to take photos of the accident scene and get witness statements when possible, making sure the witnesses state their name and share their contact information so that they can be reached out if necessary.