Motorcycle Accidents in New Jersey | What You Should Know

Motorcycle accidents are serious. In New Jersey, motorcycle accidents are commonly the result of driver negligence, and injured riders must seek compensation through third-party claims, as PIP coverage is not applicable. If you were hurt in one, you will need to retain the services of one of our skilled Monmouth County motorcycle accident attorneys. Our legal team is committed to ensuring you obtain the compensation you need to heal.

What Are the Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in New Jersey?

Motorcycles can be dangerous. Unfortunately, despite making up only 3% of registered vehicles in the United States, motorcyclists account for 16% of fatal accidents in the United States As a result, there are several different ways they can happen. In some cases, they are a consequence of inclement weather conditions, poorly maintained roads, or faulty mechanical parts. But, more generally, motorcycle accidents are a direct result of driver negligence.

Common Types of Driver Negligence

• Ignoring blind spots
• Speeding
• Driving while sleepy or fatigued
• Unsafely changing lanes
• Disregarding traffic lights, signs, or all other rules and regulations of the road
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Drowsy driving

Does New Jersey’s PIP Cover Motorcyclists?

New Jersey is a no-fault accident state, meaning the drivers involved in a collision must file a claim through their own insurance carriers, regardless of who is ultimately responsible for the collision. As such, all drivers in New Jersey are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are not protected under PIP in New Jersey. This means that, unlike with car accidents, your policy will not cover medical bills and/or lost wages after an accident. This is why many injured riders seek information on how motorcycle claims are handled in New Jersey, as compensation is generally dependent on proving fault and holding the negligent driver responsible

What This Means for Injured Motorcyclists

• Unlike drivers, you may be responsible for your own initial medical expenses
• Injured motorcyclists may need to utilize their personal health insurance to cover these expenses
• You may seek compensation from the negligent driver responsible for the collision through a third-party claim
• Working with legal representation is critical to recovering compensation for damages

What Steps Should I Take After My Motorcycle Accident?

If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident and would like to obtain legal compensation for your injuries, it is your responsibility to satisfy the burden of proof. This means that you will need to provide as much evidence as possible to have a valid personal injury claim. As such, understanding the steps you should take following a motorcycle accident in Monmouth County is critical.

Immediate Steps to Protect Your Health and Claim

1. Call 911. The police will be able to dispatch an ambulance to the scene, file an accident report, and more.
2. Take photos and videos of the scene of the accident. In some cases, motorcyclists can wear bodycams so that they have the footage in the event that an accident occurs.
3. Seek medical attention and ensure that your injuries are adequately treated. Ask your doctor for a copy of any relevant medical documents pointing to the severity and origin of your injuries.
4. Reach out to one of our experienced Monmouth County auto accident attorneys, as they can help you obtain more evidence that can be a key element to your case.

Additional Considerations

• Ensure you seek medical attention at the scene, even if you feel okay or injuries seem minor
• Do not discuss or speculate on fault
• Do not provide a recorded statement to an insurance company without first consulting an attorney

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accident Claims in New Jersey?

New Jersey, like all states, places time limits on your ability to seek compensation following a personal injury. As such, those injured in a motorcycle accident in the Garden State have a limited amount of time to pursue their claim under the state’s statute of limitations for personal injuries.

Important Deadlines

• Injured parties have two years from the date on which the accident occurred to file a claim against the negligent party
• Missing the deadline can bar recovery, even if negligence and damages are obvious
• Exceptions can apply in limited circumstances

Who Can Face Liability for a Monmouth County Motorcycle Accident?

Understanding liability for a motorcycle accident in Monmouth County is imperative, as this determines who will ultimately face responsibility for the injuries and damages you have suffered. In most cases, the negligent party, or an entity that failed to maintain safe conditions, will face responsibility. In Monmouth County and throughout New Jersey, liability is determined in accordance with state negligence laws, meaning the party who failed to act with reasonable care is responsible for subsequent damages.

Potentially Liable Parties

• Negligent drivers
• Vehicle manufacturers, if a defect caused the collision
• Government officials responsible for maintaining safe road conditions
• Employers, if a commercial vehicle caused the collision

Contact Our Monmouth County Injury Firm

Retaining an attorney after an injury-causing accident is the most effective way to ensure that you receive the compensation to which you are legally entitled. That is why it’s in your best interest to connect with the team at Wilton Law Firm. To learn more about how we can help you, call us today at 732-275-9555 or contact us online.