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487 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14202
Proudly serving Buffalo New York and the surrounding areas.
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Founder and Trial Lawyer
The Nicotra Law Firm, PC
to Present
Buffalo Rochester New York
New York
1996
Univ of Toledo College of Law
JD (Law)
1995
Associations
Honors / Awards
Cases
The Nicotra Law Firm will secure our client's complete satisfaction through high quality and compassionate legal representation.
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 .
Please describe a case in the last year or two where you made a big difference.
We accepted a very difficult liability case where a different lawyer hit a brick wall with an insurance company. The restaurant refused to accept any fault for a chair collapsing under a client. We accepted the referral, undertook an investigation including a detailed exam of the chair and hired a renowned expert in the field of chair structure integrity. After numerous depositions, enhanced video analysis, and our expert opinion, the insurance company changed their mind and began protracted negotiations. After more than 6 mediation sessions, we were finally able to resolve the case with non-surgical injuries for over $200,000. The client came in today to pick up her settlement check and give tearful hugs of thanks for all of our hard work.
How did you build a successful practice?
We take pride in securing our client\'s complete satisfaction through compassion, commitment, and communication. We aspire to be the leading client centered personal injury law firm in Western New York.
What should clients look for in a lawyer?
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Founded 1996
Accident & Injury, Personal Injury
Mr. Richard Angelo Nicotra has been a Premium Member since March 25, 2024.
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