Content reviewed by:
Alex Shulman
You’re in pain, bills are stacking up, and the road ahead feels uncertain. When you need a personal injury lawyer in Clarkstown more than ever, you likely want clear guidance and a plan that protects your rights under New York law.
Let Shulman & Hill Injury Lawyers serve as your motorcycle accident lawyer in Clarkstown. As a law firm established in 2013, our attorneys have more than 200 years of combined experience. Together, we have recovered over $1 billion for 26,000 clients.
How Motorcycle Accident Claims Work in Clarkstown
New York treats motorcycles differently from cars. Riders do not receive no-fault PIP benefits, so your medical bills and lost wages are not paid automatically.
Instead, you pursue compensation from the at-fault party and through your own UM/SUM coverage when needed. Financial recovery can come from multiple sources:
- The negligent driver’s liability insurance
- Your supplementary uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Potentially other at-fault entities such as a road contractor or parts manufacturer
A Clarkstown motorcycle crash lawyer can coordinate these avenues while you recover.
Here’s What You Should Understand About Negligence and Comparative Fault in New York
New York follows pure comparative fault. If both parties share blame, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault, not eliminated. Even if you were partly responsible, you may still recover damages. Helmet and eye protection are required in New York.
A violation may be raised by insurers, but it does not bar a claim. Lane splitting is prohibited; disputes over speed, visibility, and driver awareness often call for professional analysis and witness testimony.
Important Evidence in Motorcycle Crash Cases
Convincing evidence shortens arguments and can raise settlement offers. Start with high-resolution photos of skid marks, debris, road defects, and lighting. Preserve your damaged helmet, clothing, and bike; they can help prove force and impact points.
Collect all medical records, imaging, and treatment plans. We often add witness statements, 911 audio, dashcam footage, and commercial camera video, along with repair estimates and property damage appraisals.
In higher-value cases, we may consult accident reconstructionists, human factors professionals, or biomechanical engineers. Early spoliation letters can help protect vehicle data and surveillance footage before they disappear.
Deadlines and Insurance Rules for Motorcycle Accident Cases
Many New York personal injury claims must be filed within three years from the crash, and wrongful death actions within two years. If a public entity is involved, a Notice of Claim may be due within 90 days, with a shorter window to sue.
These time limits are strict, and exceptions are limited. UM/SUM claims have notice and proof deadlines set by your policy. Contact us early so we can review coverage, protect your claim, and address any arbitration requirements.
Because riders are excluded from no-fault, documenting bills and wage loss takes careful coordination with health insurance and providers. We work to connect all medical costs and time off to the collision so adjusters have less room to dispute them.
Types of Compensation Available After a Motorcycle Accident
A serious motorcycle crash can affect nearly every part of your life. Beyond the immediate medical treatment, you may face weeks or months away from work, ongoing rehabilitation, physical limitations, and challenges that make returning to your normal routine difficult.
A motorcycle accident claim is intended to account for both the financial losses you have already experienced and the impact your injuries may have on your future. Depending on the facts of your case, you might be able to pursue compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation costs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Other accident-related losses
Clarkstown motorcycle accident lawyers can evaluate the full extent of your damages, work with medical and financial professionals when appropriate, and pursue compensation that reflects how the collision has affected your life rather than focusing only on your immediate expenses.
What to Expect from the Legal Process
The process often starts with a consultation, investigation, and a demand package to the insurer once you reach maximum medical improvement or we have a strong view of your future care. Negotiations can begin early but often heat up when liability evidence is complete.
If offers fall short, we file suit. Litigation involves discovery, depositions, medical exams, motions, and settlement talks. Many cases resolve before trial, but we prepare every case for court to keep leverage strong.
Throughout, we help you weigh offers against risks, costs, and timelines. Your decisions guide the path; our job is to provide clear options and protect your claim at each step.
Call Shulman & Hill Injury Lawyers for Help From Our Motorcycle Accident Law Firm in Clarkstown
Your recovery starts with a plan. Shulman & Hill Injury Lawyers can investigate your crash, protect your claim under New York law, and pursue compensation that reflects your losses. If you were hurt, reach out for a free case review.
We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and move quickly to secure the evidence that matters. We handle motorcycle cases regularly, so we’re familiar with the local community, which helps us understand police reports, roadway conditions, and insurer practices.