Motorcycle accidents often lead to death of the motorcyclist. If you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to recover damages from the at-fault party through a wrongful death claim. For years, our highly skilled Syracuse motorcycle accident attorneys have been settling and litigating motorcycle injury claims. With vast experience, you can rest assured that we will fervently advocate for your rights every step of the way.
Earlier this week, the New York State Police investigated a deadly accident in which a car allegedly turned left directly into the path of a Harley Davidson. The motorcycle driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the car was arrested and charged with drunk driving and other traffic offenses. Law enforcement is still collecting information on the accident and requests that anyone who has relevant information reach out to police.
Fatal Motorcycle Accident Statistics
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s 2016 fatal crash data reveals that motorcyclist deaths took place 28 times more often than deaths in other automobiles. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that there were 34,439 fatal motor vehicle crashes in the United States in 2016 in which 37,461 deaths occurred. In New York, there were 965 fatal motorcycle crashes resulting in 1,025 deaths that same year.
Liability in Deadly Motorcycle Accident Cases
Fatal motorcycle accidents are often the result of negligence on the part of other motorists. Negligence is the legal theory that allows victims of accidents to hold at-fault parties accountable. If you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to recover damages through a wrongful death claim. New York wrongful death claims are intended to compensate the estate and certain surviving family members for the untimely death of a loved one that takes place as a result of someone else’s negligence, wrongdoing or misconduct. A child, parent or spouse of the deceased can pursue a wrongful death lawsuit in New York. Time is of the essence in these claims so it is important to reach out to an attorney if you are even contemplating such a claim.
Damages in NY Wrongful Death Cases
Surviving family members may be able to recover a variety of wrongful death damages including funeral costs, burial costs, medical costs, loss of companionship and loss of financial support. It is important to note that New York wrongful death allows damages for decedent’s conscious pain and suffering. Damages for the pain and suffering and mental anguish, however, are not available for surviving family members of the decedent in New York.
Trusted Syracuse Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
If you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle wreck, you need to speak to a seasoned Syracuse motorcycle accident attorney who can help. At DeFrancisco & Falgiatano Personal Injury Lawyers, our team will meticulously analyze the facts of your case and come up with a legal strategy accordingly. You can rest assured that we are committed to getting you full and fair compensation in your case. For a confidential consultation about your legal matter, please feel free to call us at 833-200-2000 or contact us online.
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