Motorcyclist Critically Injured in Crash on FDR Dr in Upper East Side, NY

Upper East Side, NY (August 14, 2026) – A 63-year-old motorcyclist was critically injured early Wednesday, August 12, after a Nissan SUV struck his Suzuki on FDR Drive.

As reported by the New York City Police Department, the motorcyclist was traveling downtown in the right lane at about 1:42 a.m. when a 32-year-old man driving the SUV moved into the same lane while attempting to exit at East 63rd Street.

The SUV hit the rear of the motorcycle, throwing the 63-year-old onto the roadway. He suffered severe head trauma and was taken to NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center in critical condition.

The SUV driver stayed at the site and was not hurt. The investigation remains ongoing. 

We hope the motorcyclist receives the medical attention he needs during his recovery.

What Compensation Can a Motorcyclist Seek After a Crash in New York, NY?

A motorcyclist injured because of another driver's negligence may seek compensation for losses such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. New York generally gives an injured person three years from the date of the accident to start a personal injury lawsuit. 

Motorcyclists who travel through Manhattan face busy routes where lane changes and exit movements can create complicated questions about fault. Evidence that shows vehicle positions, lane movements, traffic conditions, and the sequence of events can be particularly useful when more than one vehicle is involved.

It is also important to understand how New York's comparative negligence rule works. Under this rule, if you are partly to blame for an accident, it reduces the damages you can recover rather than stopping you from getting any.

A motorcycle accident lawyer can review medical records, crash documentation, photographs, and other available evidence to assess how fault and damages may affect each claim.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident and are unsure of what steps to take next, we are here to help. At Metro Law, we can evaluate the details of your accident and walk you through your available options under New York law. 

For more information about your next steps, you can contact Metro Law at (800) 469-6476. We are here to walk you through your potential claim process.