THE NICOTRA LAW FIRM PC
Motorcycle Accident, Personal Injury, Car Accident, Animal Bite, Slip & Fall Accident
Founded in:
1996
Firm Size:
13
THE NICOTRA LAW FIRM PC
Main Office
16 W Main St
Rochester, NY 14614
Office Hours
Open 24 Hours
Other Locations
0,0
About Law Firm
Find out what your case is really worth ! MOTORCYCLE Crashes, Car Crashes, Fall Downs, Dog Bites : A graduate of University of Toledo College of Law, class of 1995, Attorney Richard A. Nicotra concentrates his practice on all areas of personal injury, focusing on car accidents, dog bite incidents and slip and fall incidents. He is admitted in all New York State Courts, including the Western New York Bankruptcy Court and Federal Court. Attorney Nicotra has won multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements and is the current President of the New York State Trial Lawyers – Western Region Affiliate. Mr. Nicotra is also an active member of the Erie County Bar Association a member of the Order of Barristers and the American Association for Justice.
Notable Work
Cases
Publications
Navigating New York State
Motorcycle Laws: A Legal Perspective
As an experienced personal injury lawyer, I have spent years advocating for the rights of motorcyclists in New York State. Understanding the complex web of laws that govern the operation of motorcycles is crucial for riders. Not only do these laws serve to protect riders, but they also establish essential guidelines that, when followed, can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
In New York, you will need to obtain a Class M or MJ license. A written test, learner's permit, completed a state-approved safety course, and the passing of a road test are all required as well. This ensures you know how to ride the roads safely.
Your bike also needs to be in good standing with the DMV with an annual registration. Don't forget your proof of insurance - it's the key for your bike's registration and meeting the state's insurance rules.
Have your motorcycle thoroughly checked by a licensed shop and get a yearly New York State Inspection sticker to ensure your ride is mechanically up to the task.
You also must obtain the minimum liability coverage set by state law. But we recommend at least $250,000 limits - you'd be surprised how inexpensive it is compared to the initial cost of the policy
New York State mandates all motorcycle riders and passengers wear helmets that meet the standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).
Eye protection is also required unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield.
The use of DOT-approved helmets significantly decreases the risk of traumatic brain injuries, which is a common concern in motorcycle accidents.
Motorcycles in New York
must be equipped with certain safety equipment :
- A working headlamp that must be on at all times, even during daylight hours, to increase visibility.
-Reflective rear license plate illumination.
- A horn audible for at least 200 feet.
- At least one mirror.
-Functioning turn signals if the motorcycle was originally equipped with turn signals or is a newer model year.
Regular maintenance checks are essential to ensure that all equipment is in proper working condition, as equipment failures can lead to accidents.
New York being a No-Fault state means that in case of an accident, a motorcyclist's insurance company only covers medical expenses and lost earnings, regardless of fault to pedestrians and other motorists injured, not the motorcycle drivers.
However, since motorcycles are not classified as "motor vehicles" under New York's No-Fault Law, bikers are not eligible for these benefits. Therefore, they do not need to meet any Serious Injury requirement to pursue a claim for compensation against the responsible driver.
For adequate protection, motorcyclists should have insurance coverage that includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. Additionally, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can offer extra security if the other party involved in an accident lacks .