Rockland County Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Were you injured in a motorcycle accident in Rockland County, NY?

At Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C., we schedule confidential consultations and provide experienced motorcycle accident representation for injured riders throughout Rockland County.

If you were hurt in a motorcycle crash, the injuries are almost certainly serious. Road rash, fractures, spinal cord damage, and traumatic brain injuries are far more common in motorcycle collisions than in car-on-car crashes because riders have no structural protection around them. Making matters worse, insurance adjusters often approach motorcycle claims with the assumption that the rider was at fault. At Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C., we have represented injured clients from our New City office since 1975. Our Rockland County, NY motorcycle accident lawyer from our firm can review your crash at no cost and push back against the bias that riders face from day one.

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Rockland County, NY

A motorcycle accident attorney investigates how a crash occurred, identifies the at-fault party, and pursues full compensation that accounts for the severity of injuries riders sustain. New York recorded 188 fatal motorcycle crashes and more than 5,100 total motorcycle collisions statewide in 2023, according to the NYS DMV and the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research. Though motorcycles represent roughly 2% of registered vehicles, riders account for approximately 14% of all traffic fatalities.

Rockland County’s winding parkways, two-lane rural roads, and heavy recreational riding traffic make these numbers personal for local riders. One critical legal distinction separates motorcycle cases from car accidents in New York: motorcycles are not covered by the state’s no-fault system. That means an injured rider does not receive PIP benefits but can file a claim directly against the at-fault driver without meeting the serious injury threshold.

Types of Motorcycle Accident Cases We Handle in Rockland County

Motorcycle crashes happen for specific, identifiable reasons, and the legal strategy depends on what caused the collision. Our Rockland County motorcycle accident attorneys handle the following types of cases:

• Left-turn collisions. A driver turning left across an oncoming motorcycle’s path is one of the most common and most dangerous crash scenarios. The driver often claims the bike was not visible. We use speed analysis, sight-distance calculations, and intersection geometry to disprove that defense.
• Rear-end collisions. A car that strikes a motorcycle from behind can launch the rider from the bike. These crashes frequently happen in stop-and-go traffic or at red lights when the trailing driver is distracted.
• Lane-change accidents. Drivers who fail to check mirrors and blind spots merge directly into a motorcycle’s path. We obtain cellphone records and dashcam footage to establish what the driver was doing at the moment of impact.
• Car accidents. Multi-vehicle crashes at intersections, highway merges, and parking lot exits often involve a motorist who simply did not see the rider. We pursue every available insurance policy in these cases.
• Road hazard crashes. Potholes, gravel, uneven pavement, oil spills, and debris cause motorcycle wrecks that would not affect a car. When a municipality or property owner failed to maintain the road or warn of the hazard, we pursue a premises or government liability claim.
• Truck accidents. A collision with a commercial vehicle is devastating for a rider. Blind spots, wide turns, and tire blowouts all contribute to motorcycle-truck crashes on Route 59 and the Thruway corridor.
• Hit-and-run accidents. When a driver strikes a motorcycle and flees, the rider’s own uninsured motorist coverage becomes the primary source of recovery. We manage those claims and coordinate with law enforcement.
• DWI-related motorcycle crashes. An impaired driver who hits a rider may face both criminal prosecution and a civil claim for compensatory and punitive damages.
• Wrongful death. When a motorcycle crash is fatal, surviving family members can pursue compensation for medical costs, funeral expenses, lost financial support, and loss of companionship.

Why Choose Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C. as My Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Rockland County, NY?

Attorneys Who Ride Rockland County’s Roads

Barry S. Kantrowitz has lived in Rockland County for decades and practiced law for more than 40 years. He was appointed to the Rockland County Legislature in 2014, has held leadership roles with the JCC Rockland and the Rockland Community College Foundation, and holds the AV Preeminent peer review rating from Martindale-Hubbell. He is also a member of The National Trial Lawyers and has been selected as a Super Lawyer in New York.

Kate Carballo is a Certified Civil Trial Attorney designated by the Supreme Court of New Jersey and has been selected to the Super Lawyers list from 2024 through 2026. She has over 14 years of litigation experience and is a member of the American Association for Justice. The preparation they bring to every case is what injured riders should expect from a personal injury lawyer in Rockland County, NY.

Proven Results for Accident Victims

Our clients have recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. Results relevant to motorcycle and serious-injury cases include:

• $836,000 settlement for a motorcyclist struck by a car
• $14 million jury verdict for three individuals harmed by a negligent professional
• $9.2 million jury verdict for the families of two teenagers killed in a construction accident
• $1 million+ structured settlement for a pedestrian struck by a delivery van
• $500,000+ settlement for a driver injured in a two-car collision

We handle motorcycle accident cases on a contingency basis. There is no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you.

Understanding Motorcycle Accident Cases

With little protection from the impact of a collision, motorcyclists have a disproportionate risk of being seriously or fatally injured on the road. Motorcycle accident fatalities have increased dramatically, rising 50% in New York since 2019. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, our Rockland County motorcycle accident attorneys at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C. can advocate for your rights. We proudly serve our local communities in New York and New Jersey.

Many laws have been enacted to reduce motorcycle accidents. New York motorcycle laws include:

• Helmet wearing
• Eye protection
• Insurance
• Designated passenger seat
• Daytime headlight use
• Handlebars being lower than the shoulders
• Motorcycle license
• No two motorcyclists in the same lane
• No lane splitting
• One headphone per helmet

You can follow all the rules, be a careful, responsible motorcyclist, and still suffer from an accident. Fortunately, our injury lawyers are experts in helping responsible motorcyclists fight for justice and compensation.

What Are the Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?

In the state of New York, some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Driving while intoxicated
• Poor training
• Riding unlicensed
• Manufacturing errors
• Reckless driving from other motorists
• Poor visibility and weather
• Left turn accidents
• Poor road conditions
• Lane splitting

Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents

Common injuries include the following:

• Brain trauma
• Concussions
• Fractures
• Paralysis
• Road rash
• Burns

Determining Fault in a Motorcycle Accident

Every personal injury case starts by identifying fault. Any motorcyclist pursuing a claim must have a legal team who can prove that the defendant was negligent, which resulted in the rider’s injuries. While New York state does have a no-fault law for car accidents, this does not apply to motorcycles. Many states, New York included, consider them significantly more dangerous than regular vehicles. However, motorcyclists are no more dangerous than other drivers. In fact, a collision is often caused by motorists driving aggressively, under the influence, or inclement weather.

As of May 26, 2026, New York law bars a plaintiff found more than 50% at fault for a motor vehicle accident from recovering non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. You may still be able to recover a proportional share of your economic damages, such as medical bills and lost wages, but pain and suffering compensation would not be available. This change applies to actions commenced on or after that date and affects how much compensation an injured rider can ultimately recover. New York’s “serious injury” threshold, including the now-eliminated “90/180-day” rule, applies to the state’s no-fault insurance system and does not affect motorcycle accident claims, since motorcycles are excluded from New York’s no-fault coverage.

Comparative Fault

New York would apply its “comparative fault” rule if you were partially at fault. This means that whatever percentage you were at fault for this accident will be deducted from your settlement. So, if you were responsible for 30% of the accident, that same amount would be reduced from the total. However, as of May 26, 2026, if you were found more than 50% at fault, you can no longer recover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, though a proportional share of your economic damages remains available. Additionally, any evidence of potentially illegal behavior could be used against you, meaning you must have followed all of New York’s motorcycle laws at the time of the accident. However, your Rockland County motorcycle accident lawyer will work hard to ensure that you bear little to no fault.

New York’s Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations for most negligence actions is three years from the date of the accident. If a claim is to be made against any municipal entity there are notice of claim requirements and reduced periods within which to file suit. If there is a fatality and a “wrongful death” lawsuit is filed on behalf of the deceased’s estate, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of death.

Most Dangerous Locations for Motorcycle Accidents in Rockland County, NY

Rockland County’s terrain and road network create specific hazards for riders. Tight curves, elevation changes, and heavy traffic volumes on commercial corridors contribute to serious motorcycle crashes. Local roads where riders face elevated risk include:

• Route 9W through Haverstraw and Stony Point. Narrow lanes, limited shoulders, and sharp curves along the Hudson River make this a scenic but treacherous ride.
• Route 45 near Chestnut Ridge. The intersection with Route 59 has poor sightlines and heavy cross-traffic, creating left-turn collision risks for riders heading through.
• Route 304 through New City. Commercial driveways, school zones, and turning traffic along the Main Street corridor create conflict points with through-riding motorcyclists.
• Germonds Road and Little Tor Road. Winding residential roads with limited sightlines and no shoulders, particularly dangerous in wet conditions or low light.

The most dangerous highways for motorcyclists in Rockland County include:

• Route 59. The county’s busiest commercial corridor carries constant merging traffic and closely spaced signals, leaving riders vulnerable to sudden stops and lane-change collisions.
• Palisades Interstate Parkway. High-speed travel through wooded terrain with sharp curves and limited runoff areas produces catastrophic motorcycle crashes.
• New York State Thruway (I-87/I-287). Interchange merging zones near Suffern, Spring Valley, and Nyack funnel cars and commercial trucks into tight spaces alongside motorcycles.

Reach Out to Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C. to Schedule a Consultation

At Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C., we know motorcyclists can find themselves injured through no fault of their own. When you reach out to our office, we do everything in our power to build a winning case that helps you get your life back on track. Contact us today for a free consultation. There is no obligation to hire us afterward. And since we work on a contingency fee basis, you will not pay attorney’s fees unless we win compensation for your injuries. We look forward to hearing from you.

New York Motorcycle Accident FAQ

I was involved in a motorcycle accident. What factors should I consider when determining if I have a viable legal claim?

There are several factors that a Rockland County, NY motorcycle accident lawyer may consider when evaluating your claim. Firstly, consider the negligence or fault of the other party involved. Were they responsible for the accident due to actions such as reckless driving, failure to yield, or violating traffic laws? Secondly, assess the extent of your injuries and resulting damages, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Additionally, determine if there is sufficient evidence to support your claim, such as witness testimonies, police reports, photographs, or surveillance footage. They will provide personalized advice based on the specific circumstances of your accident, guiding you on the legal options available and the potential for pursuing compensation.

What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident to protect my legal rights?

To fully protect your legal rights to the fullest there are key steps you should take. First and foremost, prioritize your health and safety by seeking immediate medical attention. Promptly reporting the accident to the police is crucial for documenting the incident. Gather evidence at the scene, if possible, by taking photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses who can provide testimonies supporting your version of events. Avoid discussing fault or making statements to insurance representatives without first consulting with a motorcycle accident lawyer. It is also important to preserve any relevant documents, such as medical records, accident reports, and communications with insurance companies. Seeking legal representation early in the process can ensure that your rights are protected, and crucial evidence is preserved for a potential legal claim.

What types of damages can I recover in a motorcycle accident case?

Depending on your circumstances and the extent of your damages, you may be able to receive a large compensation amount, as a Rockland County motorcycle accident lawyer can tell you. Compensatory damages typically fall into two categories: economic and non-economic. Economic damages aim to reimburse you for quantifiable losses, such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, property damage, lost wages, and future earning capacity. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are more subjective and compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and disfigurement. In certain cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the at-fault party’s actions were particularly egregious or malicious. Consulting with a motorcycle accident lawyer is crucial for assessing the damages applicable to your case and pursuing the full compensation you deserve.

What if I was partially at fault for the motorcycle accident? Can I still pursue a legal claim?

When more than one person is at fault, it can make your motorcycle accident case much more complex. The concept of comparative negligence comes into play, which determines the degree of fault assigned to each party involved. Depending on the jurisdiction, you may still be able to pursue a legal claim even if you were partially at fault. However, the amount of compensation you can recover may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault and the total damages awarded are $100,000, you would receive $80,000 (80% of the damages). As of May 26, 2026, however, if you were found more than 50% at fault in a motor vehicle accident case, you can no longer recover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, though a proportional share of your economic damages remains available. Understanding the specific laws and regulations in your jurisdiction is essential, as they may impact your ability to recover compensation. Consulting with a motorcycle accident lawyer will provide you with a clear understanding of your legal rights and options in a shared fault scenario.

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit?

It is crucial to be aware of and adhere to the statute of limitations specific to your location. Failing to file a lawsuit within the prescribed time limit can result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. Statutes of limitations can vary from one to several years, depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the claim. It is advisable to consult with a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after the accident to ensure you understand the applicable deadline and take appropriate legal action within the required timeframe. Your lawyer will guide you through the legal process, ensure all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and timely, and work diligently to protect your rights and maximize your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve. If you wish to protect your legal rights, do not wait and contact a qualified Rockland County motorcycle accident lawyer from Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C. that clients trust now.