It is bad enough being involved in any motor vehicle accident. It’s even worse and frequently more dangerous if you are driving or riding on a motorcycle. Motorcycle accident victims are often thrown from their motorcycle and may slide on the pavement or find themselves alone and laying along the side of the road. Some riders are able to dust themselves off and get back on the motorcycle. Other riders are not so lucky and may find themselves dazed, confused, broken or even critically injured. A knowledgeable attorney will help you make a claim for the property damage to your motorcycle, medical bills and fair compensation for your injuries.
Motorcycle Safety Facts
- 90% of motorcycles involve riders who have no training in motorcycle riding.
- 33% of motorcycle fatalities involved drivers under the influence of alcohol according to the NJ DOT.
- 50% of motorcycle accidents happen at intersections.
- Two-thirds of all motorcycle accidents happen when the other driver did not see the motorcycle.
- Two-thirds of all crashes involve excessive motorcycle speed.
- 40% of motorcycle fatalities for single vehicle crashes happened at corners and sharp turns.
- 25% of motorcycle fatalities involve a driver that did not have a motorcycle endorsement on their drivers license.
- There were almost 12,000 accidents involving motorcycles in New Jersey in the last five years.
Motorcycle Safety Tips
- Be on the Lookout for Motorcycles
A motorcycle can be hidden by large SUVs, trucks and heavy traffic. Always be alert. - Be Prepared for Dangers for Motorcycles
Anticipate hazards associated with unsafe road conditions, such as potholes, blind curves, steep inclines, and narrow streets. - Never Tailgate Motorcycles
Any impact from a car with a motorcycle’s rear tire will cause the motorcycle to lose control. - Be Kind on the Road
Safe driving can prevent accidents. Obey all local traffic laws and signs. Be mindful that motorcycles are smaller and faster. Make sure you check your blind spots before turning and changing lanes.
What is the Helmet Law in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, you are not permitted to drive or ride on a motorcycle without a helmet approved by the DOT. All helmets must have a chin/neck straps and reflective markings.
What Should I do if I am in a Motorcycle Accident in NJ?
Motorcycle crashes can be deadly at any speed. Even motorcycles traveling less than 30 mph can result in serious injuries and death. Helmets can reduce the chance of serious brain injuries, but traumatic brain injuries and other injuries can occur to drivers in motorcycle collisions and when thrown from a motorcycle or landing on the road at any speed. Nevertheless, the odds for riders without helmets are TRIPLE to suffer a fatality from head trauma than riders with a helmet.
Contact MyNJInjuryLawyer
If you or a loved one is involved in a NJ motorcycle accident, you should contact an attorney familiar with handling these claims. Please see my NJ Car Accident Checklist if you are in any motor vehicle accident. Remember to notify your insurance company immediately about the accident. Never sign anything or settle with the other insurance company – it can bar your claim against the other driver for your injuries, pain, suffering and medical bills.
My NJ Injury Lawyer Howard P. Lesnik, Esq. offers free strategy sessions to address any issue or questions you may have about filing a claim for a motorcycle accident.
Please contact NJ Injury Lawyer Howard Lesnik, Esq., immediately if you were involved in a NJ motorcycle accident. I personally handle NJ personal injury and accident cases on a regular basis. Please contact me now by email, by phoning 908.264.7701, or by completing the form to the right to schedule your complimentary 30-minute strategy session.