New Jersey Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
New Jersey Motorcycle Accident Laws
There are around 2,500 motorcycle accidents in New Jersey each year, most of which cause injuries or death. The law surrounding motorcycle accident liability can be complicated, which is why it is important to seek legal counsel from an attorney well versed in state laws, personal injury and wrongful death claims and motorcycle crashes in particular.
New Jersey requires all motorcycle drivers and riders to wear a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmet, regardless of age. This includes all types of motorized vehicles such as scooters and dirt bikes. Riders involved in an accident without a helmet are three times more likely to suffer fatal head injuries than riders wearing a DOT-approved helmet are.
Motorcycle drivers must obtain a motorcycle endorsement on their driver's license in the state of New Jersey. The endorsement requires a written test and includes a learning permit phase as a regular driver's license does. The rider must practice for at least 20 days with a learners permit accompanied by a licensed driver on another bike before taking the road skills test. Alternatively, a rider can participate in a state-approved Motorcycle Safety Education Program in lieu of the road test. Either way, the driver is required to show competency in basic handling and riding skills.
The legal limit for driving any vehicle in New Jersey is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08. A BAC over .08 is considered driving under the influence. If there are minors in the car or on the bike, the driver may also be charged with a disorderly persons offense. For drivers under age 21, a zero tolerance law applies. If a motorcycle driver 20 years of age or younger has any detectable alcohol in his or her bloodstream, the state will charge him or her with drunk driving.
When a motorcycle accident does happen, the first questions will be regarding whether the rider complied with all state laws for driving a motorcycle. Was the driver licensed, wearing a helmet and free from the influence of drugs and alcohol? Drivers of any other vehicles involved will be subject to the same scrutiny. When determining liability, these questions help determine who was or was not acting responsibly at the time of the incident.
Lependorf & Silverstein can navigate the complex laws surrounding liability and compensation for motorcycle collisions. We have worked on personal injury and wrongful death cases for close to 20 years, and we will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to your case. Call our Princeton NJ motorcycle accident lawyers today for a case evaluation. We will determine whether you have a legitimate claim and discuss the best way for you to proceed.
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