Rosenbaum & Rosenbaum, P.C. | August 10, 2020 | Motorcycle Accidents

A 42-year-old woman from Allentown, PA, died in a motorcycle accident in Holliswood on July 26, 2020. The victim, Tineisha Howard, was driving a 2019 Kawasaki ZX6R when she lost control of the motorcycle. She was traveling southbound on Francis Lewis Boulevard. 

Around 7:20 that evening, Ms. Howard struck a fire hydrant and crashed. She was unresponsive and appeared to have body and head trauma.

Emergency medical services transported Ms. Howard to North Shore Hospital-Manhasset. She was pronounced dead at the hospital. The Highway Collision Investigation Squad of the NYPD continues to investigate the motorcycle crash.

Motorcycle Accident Fatalities in New York

Thousands of motorcyclists are killed each year in fatal motorcycle crashes. During 2018, 4,985 motorcyclists died in traffic accidents. 

In 2017, 136 riders died on New York roads. In addition to the fatalities, thousands of motorcyclists are injured each year in crashes and accidents.

The cause of motorcycle accidents varies. Human error and poor driving decisions are factors in many motorcycle crashes. Examples of driving behaviors that contribute to the cause of motorcycle accidents in New York include:

In addition to driving errors and negligence, other factors can contribute to a motorcycle accident. Poor weather conditions and road hazards are common factors in a crash. Also, defective motorcycle tires and parts may lead to a fatal motorcycle accident.

Determining the cause of the motorcycle accident is the first step in recovering compensation for injuries and losses. According to New York’s personal injury laws, only a party who is responsible for causing an accident or injury can be held liable for the victim’s damages.

Therefore, it can be helpful to talk to a motorcycle accident lawyer. A lawyer can investigate the motorcycle crash to determine fault and gather evidence to prove liability. 

An accident investigation can be costly and time-consuming. An experienced law firm has the resources, time, and skills to handle a complex accident investigation. Allowing a lawyer to handle your claim means that you can focus on recovering from your injuries.

Common Motorcycle Injuries and Damages

Motorcycles do not offer much protection in a traffic accident. Even though the state requires motorcyclists to wear motorcycle helmets, helmets do not prevent all motorcycle injuries.

Some of the common motorcycle injuries that victims sustain include:

When a rider is injured, the rider may incur substantial financial losses related to medical bills and loss of income. If the rider sustains a permanent impairment or disability, the person may require ongoing personal care and medical care. The rider may be unable to return to work, thereby resulting in a lifetime of lost wages.

In addition to the economic losses caused by a motorcycle accident, a rider may also suffer physical and emotional pain and suffering. Noneconomic damages may also include loss of quality of life, scarring, disfigurement, disabilities, and mental anguish.

Recovering fair compensation for your damages can be difficult. Insurance companies tend to undervalue motorcycle accident claims. They often blame the motorcyclists for the crash to avoid paying the full value of the claim.

However, there are steps you can take to protect your legal rights after a motorcycle accident.

Steps to Take After a New York City Motorcycle Accident

After a motorcycle accident, steps you can take to protect your legal rights include:

  • Call 911 to report the motorcycle accident and request help
  • Do not talk about the accident with witnesses at the accident scene
  • Take photographs and make a video of the accident scene
  • Get the names and contact information for eyewitnesses
  • Seek immediate medical attention and follow your doctor’s treatment plan
  • Do not post information about your accident or injuries on social media
  • Avoid using social media or posting any information online until your accident claim is finished
  • Do not provide statements or sign documents for the insurance company without talking with a motorcycle accident attorney first
  • Talk to a lawyer before you accept a settlement offer or sign a settlement agreement
  • Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights

The steps you take following a motorcycle accident can help or hurt your case. If you have questions about a motorcycle accident claim, ask a lawyer before moving forward.

Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in New York City

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Manhattan, NY, and need legal help, contact our New York City personal injury lawyers at Rosenbaum & Rosenbaum, P.C. to schedule a free consultation.

Rosenbaum & Rosenbaum, P.C.
100 Wall St 15th Floor
New York, NY 10005
(212) 514-5007