Statistics from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration and other sources clearly show that motorcyclists face up to 32 times the accident risk of their counterparts in automobiles. In addition to the danger of crashing a motorcycle in regular traffic, motorcycle-automobile collisions are common, often resulting in severe head trauma, bodily injury and property damage.

New York: A No-Fault State

While fault is a critical question in any motorcycle accident, New York is a no-fault state, meaning that neither party takes the blame for a New York motorcycle accident. Instead, each driver goes through his or her insurance company. The no-fault law is easily misinterpreted and may not interfere with your right to collect a settlement or compensation for your injuries. Due to the complexities of the no-fault system, it is recommended that you consult a New York motorcycle accident attorney on fault-related issues in addition to speaking to your insurance company no the matter.

New York Motorcycle Insurance, Licensing and Registration Requirements

Speaking of insurance, New York state law is clear – every motorcycle on the road needs to carry liability insurance. In addition, motorcycles must be properly registered and inspected every 12 months. Motorcycle registration occurs annually and all New York motorcycle registrations expire on April 30 each year. In order to legally operate a motorcycle in New York state, you must possess a Class M or Class MJ (junior operator) license. You must pass both a written and road test to obtain a New York state motorcycle license.

Head injury is the leading cause of death in motorcycle accidents, so wearing a helmet is a must for any motorcycle operator. In New York state, it’s also the law – anyone operating a motorcycle in New York must wear a USDOT-approved motorcycle helmet with eye protection.

If You’re Involved in a New York Motorcycle Accident

If you are involved in a New York motorcycle accident, don’t just attend to your injuries – get in touch with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. A skilled New York motorcycle accident attorney can help evaluate your claim and obtain compensation for your injuries and related expenses. It’s important to have someone on your side as you navigate the sometimes confusing waters of New York state motorcycle accident law – and a New York motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand and protect your rights.

For more information about motorcycle accidents, see our Free Advice Motorcycle Accident FAQs.