Motorcycle Accidents Lawyer in Queens, NY

Motorcycle accidents often result in devastating injuries that can impact every aspect of a victim’s life. Unlike occupants of passenger vehicles, motorcyclists have little protection during a collision, making them especially vulnerable to severe injuries.

When you've been knocked off your bike, the last thing you need is to deal with an impersonal law firm that passes your case between assistants. At the Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C., Seni personally handles every motorcycle accident case — from the first call to the final settlement check. You'll have his direct number. You'll speak to him, not a paralegal, not a case manager.

Seni was born and raised in Queens. He knows these roads, these intersections, and the insurance companies that try to lowball riders every day. With over 15 years of courtroom experience and more than $30 million recovered for injured New Yorkers, he brings a track record that speaks for itself — and a personal commitment that sets this firm apart.

Injured in a motorcycle wreck? Call (718) 340-3385 or contact us online to get reliable legal advice from our Queens motorcycle accident attorney.

Why Queens Riders Choose Our Firm

A motorcycle accident changes your life in a fraction of a second. When you are up against aggressive insurance adjusters, you shouldn't be handed off to a paralegal or an automated system. Our team does things differently. Bikers across Queens trust us because we build our reputation on three core pillars:

• Direct Attorney Involvement: When you hire our firm, you work directly with Seni Popat—not a case manager or junior associate. From your very first consultation to the final verdict or settlement, Seni personally oversees every detail of your case. You even get access to his personal phone number for 24/7 communication via phone, text, or WhatsApp.
• A Proven Track Record of Success: We don’t just handle cases; we win them. Our firm has recovered over $30 million for injured New Yorkers, including major multi-million dollar recoveries for motor vehicle, commercial truck, and rideshare accidents. We know how to accurately calculate the lifetime cost of your motorcycle injuries and demand nothing less.
• Over 1,000 Five-Star Reviews: Our commitment to treating clients like family has earned us over 1,000 five-star Google reviews. We pride ourselves on blending relentless, courtroom-tested advocacy with compassionate, transparent communication.

Motorcycle Accident Hotspots in Queens

Queens is home to some of the busiest roads and intersections in New York City. Heavy traffic, congestion, and distracted drivers can increase the risk of motorcycle accidents.

Common motorcycle accident hotspots in Queens include:

• Long Island Expressway (I-495)
• Grand Central Parkway
• Van Wyck Expressway (I-678)
• Belt Parkway
• Cross Island Parkway
• Queens Boulevard
• Northern Boulevard
• Jamaica Avenue
• Astoria Boulevard
• Woodhaven Boulevard

Motorcycle accidents frequently occur in areas with high traffic volumes, complex intersections, and frequent merging activity. Riders traveling through these corridors should remain vigilant and exercise caution.

New York Motorcycle Accident Laws

New York has specific laws that all motorcyclists must follow to stay safe and compliant. Understanding these rules also plays an important role in your claim.

• Helmet Law: All motorcycle riders and passengers must wear U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmets.
• Eye Protection: Riders are required to wear goggles or a face shield unless the bike has a windscreen.
• Motorcycle Licensing: A Class M or MJ license is required to operate a motorcycle legally in New York.
• Insurance Requirements: Motorcyclists must carry liability insurance, though motorcycles are not covered by New York’s “no-fault” insurance system. This means injured riders must file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver to recover damages.
• Lane Splitting: Riding between lanes of traffic (lane splitting) is illegal in New York.

Because motorcycles are excluded from no-fault benefits, even a relatively minor crash can lead to significant financial strain. Our Queens motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue full compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.

What Are Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes?

Motorcycle accidents can be caused by several things, including:

• Speeding
• Lane splitting
• Vehicle defects
• Inexperienced drivers
• Road defects
• Tailgating
• Alcohol and drugs
• Failure to signal
• Unsafe lane changes
• Car doors
• Road rage
• Poor weather conditions
• Over-breaking
• Or sudden stops

Motorcyclists face many challenges and dangers every time they hit the road. Due to the limited protection offered by a bike, riders are more likely to suffer severe or fatal injuries than those involved in an automobile collision.

Because of this, extreme caution is necessary—and not just on the biker’s part. All motorists need to be aware of motorcyclists and make sure they are doing everything possible to avoid accidents.

What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Accident?

In the chaotic aftermath of a motorcycle accident, it's crucial to remain calm and prioritize safety. Your immediate actions can significantly impact the outcome and your well-being. Here's a guide on what to do in the crucial moments following a motorcycle crash:

1. Ensure Your Safety: The first priority is to move to a safe location, if possible. Assess the situation and be aware of traffic, potential hazards, or any leaking fluids from the motorcycle. 
2. Check for Injuries: Check yourself over for injuries. Call emergency services immediately if you or others have severe injuries. Avoid moving anyone who is injured.
3. Report the Accident: Contact law enforcement to report the accident, even if it seems minor. Having an official police report can streamline the insurance claims process and provide an unbiased account of the incident. 
4. Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved, including witnesses. Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, injuries, and any relevant road signs or signals. This information will be invaluable when filing insurance claims or providing evidence later on.
5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not be immediately noticeable, and a medical professional can provide a thorough examination, diagnose hidden injuries, and document your condition for future reference.
6. Preserve Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the accident, such as damaged gear, clothing, or the motorcycle itself. This documentation can assist in determining fault and liability during insurance claims or legal proceedings.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide as much accurate and detailed information, like the police report, to assist with the claims process.

Am I Entitled To Compensation After A Motorcycle Collision?

If another person’s negligence caused your motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, and future medical care.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work and reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Property Damage: Repairs or replacement of your motorcycle and gear.
• Wrongful Death: If a loved one was fatally injured, surviving family members may pursue compensation for funeral costs and loss of companionship.

Our firm fights aggressively to ensure insurance companies don’t undervalue or deny your claim. We prepare every case as if it were going to trial to secure the best possible outcome.

Overcoming the "Biker Bias" in New York Insurance Claims

Unlike occupants in passenger cars, motorcyclists are explicitly excluded from New York’s “No-Fault” insurance system. This means you cannot rely on automatic personal injury protection (PIP) to cover your medical bills and lost wages—you must file a claim directly against the at-fault driver's insurance.

To make matters more difficult, insurance companies often rely on an unfair "biker bias," painting motorcyclists as inherently reckless to minimize payouts.

Born and raised right here in Queens, attorney Seni Popat has spent over 15 years fighting these corporate tactics in New York courts. We counter biased narratives with black-and-white evidence. Our legal team aggressively investigates your crash, challenges inaccurate police reports, interviews witnesses, and gathers traffic camera footage from Queens roadways to prove liability and secure the full compensation you deserve

Motorcycle Accident Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in New York?

You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim, but wrongful death claims must be filed within two years. Acting quickly helps preserve crucial evidence.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. New York follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means you can recover damages even if you were partially responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Do I need a lawyer for a motorcycle accident claim?

While you can file a claim on your own, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Hiring our Queens motorcycle accident lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your compensation maximized.

How much does it cost to hire Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C.?

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only collect a fee if we win your case.

Put Experienced & Aggressive Representation On Your Side

Whether your accident occurred on the Grand Central Parkway, the Long Island Expressway, or a local street in Jamaica, time is of the essence. Crucial evidence can disappear, and New York law imposes strict deadlines on filing personal injury claims.

Don't navigate the complex legal system alone while trying to recover. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are absolutely zero upfront legal fees—you only pay if we win your case.

Suffering due to your motorcycle accident injuries? Call (718) 340-3385 or contact our firm online to schedule a free consultation with our motorcycle accident lawyer in Queens.