Motorcycle Accidents

Highly Skilled Nassau County Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer Serving Clients on Long Island and Throughout NYC

Riding a motorcycle on Long Island offers a sense of freedom, but it also comes with serious risks. With heavy traffic, unpredictable drivers, and dangerous road conditions, motorcyclists face unique challenges every day. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, you’ve probably experienced firsthand how quickly things can go from a casual ride to a life-altering event. In a matter of seconds, an enjoyable day on the road can turn into a nightmare. That’s where we come in—helping you take back control and get the compensation you deserve after a devastating accident. At Mark S. Ricciardi, Esq., P.C., we have decades of experience helping motorcycle accident victims recover meaningful compensation for their injuries, and we’re looking forward to learning more about how we can help with your case.

Nassau County Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Nassau County and Long Island have seen a troubling number of motorcycle accidents over the past several years. For example, in 2022, there were over 900 motorcycle accidents reported across New York State, with Nassau County accounting for a notable number of these collisions. Long Island’s roads, such as the Long Island Expressway (LIE) and Sunrise Highway, are hotspots for motorcycle accidents due to the heavy traffic and narrow lanes. Of these accidents, many resulted in serious injuries or fatalities due to the high speeds that are often involved, as well as the minimal protection motorcycle riders enjoy compared to occupants of other vehicles.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents on Long Island

It’s a commonly believed myth that most motorcycle accidents are due to rider error. In reality, only a small percentage of accidents involving a motorcycle and another vehicle involve a motorcyclist’s negligence. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Driver Inattention: Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see than cars or trucks, making them particularly vulnerable to accidents caused by distracted or inattentive drivers.
• Left-Turn Accidents: One of the most common causes of motorcycle crashes occurs when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. The driver may fail to see the motorcyclist or misjudge their speed.
• Speeding: Whether it’s the motorcyclist or the other driver, speeding significantly increases the likelihood of an accident. High speeds make it harder to react in time to avoid a collision.
• Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, and poor road conditions pose a greater risk to motorcyclists than to cars. A small obstacle that a car can easily drive over can cause a motorcycle to lose control.

Understanding the causes of your accident is crucial when pursuing compensation. At Mark S. Ricciardi, Esq., P.C., we investigate every detail to determine liability and build a strong case for you.

New York Helmet Laws

New York has strict helmet laws designed to protect motorcyclists from the severe head injuries that often result from accidents. Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 381, all motorcyclists and their passengers are required to wear a helmet. Failure to comply with this law not puts riders at greater risk of serious injury or death. However, it can also impact a personal injury claim if the lack of a helmet resulted in worse injuries.

Helmets are proven to significantly reduce the risk of head injuries and fatalities in motorcycle accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries for motorcycle riders and 41% for passengers. If you were wearing a helmet at the time of your accident, it can be a crucial piece of evidence that supports your claim for compensation. And, while the failure to wear a helmet may be a factor in reducing your recovery amount, it typically will not prevent you from recovering from the at-fault driver.

Take the First Steps Towards Financial Recovery by Speaking with Our Nassau County Motorcycle Accident Attorney

After a motorcycle accident, the road to recovery can be long and challenging—both physically and financially. At Mark S. Ricciardi, Esq., P.C., we are dedicated to helping motorcycle accident victims navigate this difficult time by providing compassionate and personalized representation. With over 34 years of experience handling motorcycle accident cases in Nassau County specifically, we know how to fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Unlike larger firms, we offer personal attention to every client. This ensures that your case is handled with the care and precision you’d expect from a top-notch Nassau County motorcycle accident lawyer.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and let us help you take the first steps toward financial recovery. You can reach us by calling 516-496-0062 or by filling out our online contact form. We represent client throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties, as well as in Brooklyn, the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island.