Types of Motorcycle Accident Cases We Handle in Buffalo
Motorcycle accidents are disproportionately dangerous. Riders are nearly 30 times more likely to suffer a fatal injury per mile traveled compared to car occupants, according to NHTSA data. Combine that with negligent drivers, hazardous roads, and complex insurance policies, and you quickly see why a personal injury lawyer in Buffalo is essential.
Our Buffalo motorcycle accident lawyers handle every type of crash with the expertise needed to protect your rights and maximize compensation, including:
- Head-on collisions
- Lane-splitting accidents
- Drunk or impaired driving crashes
- Left-turn or intersection collisions
- Rear-end collisions
- Road hazard accidents
- Multi-vehicle pileups
- Single-Vehicle Crashes
- Parking Lot and Low-Speed Collisions
- Construction Zone Accidents
Motorcycle crashes rarely have just one culprit. From careless drivers to faulty equipment and even city streets that should have been properly maintained, liability can be tangled. A motorcycle accident attorney in Buffalo can cut through the chaos, reconstruct every detail, and make sure every responsible party is held accountable.
At Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law, our personal injury lawyers have decades of combined experience fighting for victims of various types of motor vehicle accidents, including car accidents, truck crashes, and rideshare accidents, giving your motorcycle case a strategic advantage that few firms can match.
Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Who Fight for Every Dollar You Deserve
Motorcycle riders face some of the most dangerous collisions on Buffalo roads. Insurance companies know that and often try to pressure victims into accepting less than they deserve. Our motorcycle accident attorneys refuse to back down. We build trial-ready cases from day one, giving insurers no choice but to treat your claim seriously.
We Fight the Battle, You Focus on Recovery
Our motorcycle accident attorneys handle the heavy lifting, examining accident physics, rider vulnerability, and all the parties involved, from negligent drivers to road authorities. You focus on healing while we piece together the full story that insurers often try to downplay.
Aggressive Negotiation, Trial-Ready Strategy
We know insurers are quick to undervalue motorcycle claims. That’s why we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. Being trial-ready isn’t just insurance against lowball offers; it’s leverage. We use it to negotiate settlements that fully reflect the seriousness of your claim.
Full-Spectrum Legal Support
From the first call to final resolution, you’ll have a dedicated Buffalo motorcycle accident lawyer guiding your case. We stay by your side, answering questions, managing deadlines, and coordinating all aspects of your recovery. You won’t be shuffled between strangers or left wondering what’s next.
We Have a No-Fee Guarantee
You never pay us upfront. We only get paid if we win for you, so our success is directly tied to yours.
Free Case Evaluation
Speak with a lawyer at no cost. We’ll review your situation, explain your options, and help you understand the best path forward.
You’re More than a Case
We treat every client like family, taking the time to understand your story and guide you through every step with care and compassion.
Damages You Can Recover in a Buffalo Motorcycle Accident Case
Motorcycle accidents are uniquely devastating. Even a “minor” crash can leave riders with serious injuries, high medical bills, and long-term impacts on their work and lifestyle. That’s why insurance companies often assume riders are willing to settle quickly.
With a Buffalo motorcycle accident attorney handling your case, every loss, visible or hidden, is accounted for and fought for. Here are the types of damages you may be entitled to in a motorcycle accident claim in Buffalo:
- Medical Expenses: From emergency care and surgeries to physical therapy, ongoing treatment, and future care, we document every cost related to your injuries.
- Lost Wages & Diminished Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working now or limit your ability to earn in the future, you may recover both lost income and potential earnings.
- Property Damage: Compensation isn’t just about your bike; it covers any gear, personal property, or other vehicles damaged in the crash.
- Pain and Suffering: Motorcycle accidents often result in intense physical and emotional trauma. We make sure the impact on your quality of life is fully recognized.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: From weekend rides to social activities, injuries that limit your freedom and hobbies can be claimed as well.
- Wrongful Death Claims: In the most tragic cases, if a loved one dies in a motorcycle accident, our attorneys pursue a wrongful death claim to recover damages for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and the irreplaceable loss of companionship.
Unlike car accidents, motorcycle crashes don’t fall under New York’s “no-fault” system for medical costs, meaning riders must pursue compensation directly from the at-fault party. That makes it critical to calculate future damages, such as rehabilitation, diminished earning power, and long-term care needs, before settling. Miss this step, and you may be left paying out of pocket later.
That’s why timing and precision matter. Evidence fades, bills pile up, and insurers are counting on you to settle fast. Your motorcycle accident lawyer in Buffalo will make sure your claim reflects the true economic and non-economic impact of the crash today and decades into the future. Your recovery shouldn’t depend on what an insurance adjuster thinks is “reasonable.” It should reflect the actual cost of rebuilding your health, livelihood, and independence.
How a Buffalo Motorcycle Accident Attorney Will Handle Your Claim
After a motorcycle crash, every move matters. Motorcycle accident lawyers at Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law don’t wait for opportunities; they create them. From the moment you call, we’re building a strategy designed to outpace insurers and secure the compensation you’re entitled to. Here’s how we build a strong case for your motorcycle accident claim:
✓ Immediate Evidence Preservation: Skid marks fade, witnesses forget, and black box data can be erased. We lock it down before it’s gone.
✓ Full-Circle Damage Assessment: It’s not just today’s hospital bills. We calculate future rehab, lost earning capacity, adaptive equipment, and everything else insurers hope you overlook.
✓ Shielding You from Insurer Traps: Adjusters are trained to twist your words. We intercept their calls, handle the paperwork, and keep you protected.
✓ Expert-Backed Investigations: Accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and financial analysts give your case credibility that insurers can’t ignore.
✓ Litigation-Ready Representation: We negotiate like trial lawyers because we are trial lawyers. If insurers don’t play fair, we don’t hesitate to bring your case before a jury.
Motorcycle accident claims are high-stakes, high-pressure battles. Miss one deadline, sign one wrong form, or accept one quick settlement, and you could lose tens of thousands of the compensation you need. With a Buffalo motorcycle accident attorney, you don’t take that risk. We handle the fight, anticipate the obstacles, and put you back in control of your recovery.
Injuries Eligible for Compensation in a Buffalo Motorcycle Accident
After a motorcycle crash, even injuries that might not look catastrophic at first can become financially and physically devastating over time. Knowing which injuries qualify for compensation in a motorcycle crash claim and how to prove their long-term impact is where the right Buffalo motorcycle accident lawyer makes all the difference. Injuries commonly seen in motorcycle crash claims include:
- Road rash and severe lacerations
- Fractures and broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Internal organ damage and bleeding
- Neck and back injuries
- Amputations
- Severe burns
- Emotional and psychological trauma
The tricky part? Insurance companies often downplay “invisible” injuries like concussions, chronic pain, or PTSD because they don’t show up on an X-ray. However, these conditions can significantly impact your ability to work, ride, or enjoy daily life. Our attorneys know how to gather medical records, expert testimony, and evidence to connect the dots between your crash and the full scope of your injuries.
We build a case that shows the real cost of your recovery. Whether your injuries are labeled “minor” or catastrophic, we make sure they’re taken seriously and valued fairly.
Deadline to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Buffalo, NY
When you’re recovering from a motorcycle accident, it’s natural to want to focus on healing first and “deal with the paperwork later.” But in New York, the law doesn’t give you that luxury. You have just three years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. Miss that window, and you lose the right to compensation.
There are narrow exceptions, like if the injured rider is a minor or the at-fault party temporarily leaves New York, but these are rare and highly technical. Waiting around in hopes you qualify for an extension is a gamble that could cost you everything. Evidence fades, witnesses forget details, and medical records get harder to connect to your crash. Delay doesn’t just weaken your bargaining power. It can erase it entirely.
That’s why having a Buffalo motorcycle accident lawyer on your side early is critical. From filing the right paperwork to preserving crucial evidence, we make sure your case doesn’t fall victim to the calendar.
FAQ: Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Buffalo, NY
After a motorcycle accident, questions come fast. Our motorcycle accident attorneys in Buffalo have gathered answers to help you understand the road ahead. For personalized legal advice, contact our law firm today.
How much is my Buffalo motorcycle accident claim worth?
The value of a Buffalo motorcycle accident claim depends on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other factors like pain and suffering or long-term impacts on your lifestyle. Minor scrapes and fractures are valued differently than traumatic injuries or catastrophic losses. A Buffalo motorcycle crash lawyer can carefully document your damages, consult with medical and vocational experts, and calculate future costs to ensure your claim reflects the full financial and personal impact of the crash.
What are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Buffalo?
Motorcycle accidents occur for various reasons, many of which are preventable. Inattentive drivers are a significant factor, frequently failing to see motorcyclists. Just because you’re being safe doesn’t mean other drivers are. Additionally, speeding and reckless driving pose significant threats to motorcyclists and can lead to collisions. Poor road conditions, including potholes and debris, can also lead to accidents. Also, left-turn accidents at intersections are particularly hazardous for motorcyclists due to a driver’s misjudgment of their speed.
Ida Comerford, with her background as a motorcyclist, knows the unique challenges and risks riders face on the road. She is well-equipped to investigate your accident, uncover the responsible party’s negligence, and build a strong case on your behalf. Her experience and dedication set her apart from other attorneys in the field.
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident in Buffalo?
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s crucial to take the following steps:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the number one priority. Make sure you receive prompt medical care, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not manifest immediately.
- Report the Accident: Notify the police and obtain a copy of the accident report. This documentation is essential for building your case.
- Gather Evidence: If possible, collect evidence at the scene, including photographs, witness statements, and the contact information of involved parties.
- Preserve Your Bike: Keep your motorcycle as is; it may serve as critical evidence.
- Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies: Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. Consult with an attorney before giving a statement.
Finally, contact our personal injury law firm: Your motorcycle accident attorney knows how to handle the legal complexities surrounding motorcycle accidents. We will protect your rights and make sure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
How is fault determined in a motorcycle accident in Buffalo, NY?
Determining who is at fault in a motorcycle accident is a crucial step in the legal process. Evidence such as photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and police reports can help reconstruct how the crash happened and whether any traffic laws were broken (speeding, running red lights, or other violations). Eyewitnesses can also provide valuable insights into how the accident occurred. Their statements can help corroborate other evidence.
Accident reconstruction experts use physical evidence from the scene, such as skid marks, to recreate the accident. They can provide a detailed analysis of how and why the accident happened. Another key concept to understand is comparative negligence. This means that fault can be shared between the parties involved. For example, if you were partially at fault for the accident, your compensation might be reduced by your own percentage of fault.
An accident lawyer in Buffalo can help not only with gathering and analyzing evidence, but also with navigating the complexities of comparative negligence. They can build a strong case on your behalf, protect your rights, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or is underinsured?
If the at-fault driver in your Buffalo motorcycle accident lacks insurance or doesn’t carry enough to cover your damages, you may be able to recover through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). A Buffalo motorcycle accident lawyer can review your policy, document the full scope of your injuries and losses, and ensure your insurer meets its obligations, protecting you from being stuck with medical bills, lost wages, or long-term care costs that the other driver can’t pay.
What is the motorcycle helmet law in New York?
New York requires all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear a helmet that meets Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. This law, in place since 1967, is designed to protect riders from head injuries in the event of a crash. To comply, helmets must have a DOT certification label, a smooth outer shell with no rigid projections, a continuous protective surface, and allow clear peripheral vision. Wearing a DOT-approved helmet is not only a safety measure; it can also impact insurance claims after a crash, making following the law essential.
How should I handle insurance companies after a motorcycle crash?
Dealing with insurance companies after a motorcycle accident can be a whole other challenge. Adjusters work for the insurance company, and their goal is often to minimize your payout. They might use tactics such as downplaying your injuries or suggesting that you bear a greater percentage of fault. They might also delay communications, offer low settlements quickly, or request extensive documentation to discourage injury victims from accepting a fair amount of money.
To counter these tactics, it’s essential to keep detailed records of your medical treatments, expenses, and any communication with the insurance company. Avoid giving recorded statements without consulting with a lawyer, as anything you say can be used against you. A Buffalo motorcycle accident attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation.
Who pays the medical bills in a Buffalo, NY, motorcycle accident claim?
In Buffalo, medical bills from a motorcycle accident aren’t automatically covered by the “no-fault” system that applies to most car accidents. That means you generally cannot rely on your own insurance to pay for your treatment unless you have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) under a policy that applies. Instead, the at-fault driver—or their insurance company—may be responsible for covering your medical expenses.
