Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in New Jersey
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious, life-altering injuries. Unlike occupants of passenger vehicles, riders have little physical protection when a crash occurs. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation.
The Law Offices of Mitchell Friedman is a firm that has helped clients resolve their motorcycle accident claims for more than 30 years. Attorney Mitchell Friedman has a reputation in the Hudson County, NJ area as a skilled lawyer for motorcycle accidents. You can trust him to provide professional, competent representation in any of these areas:
- Essex County, NJ
- Newark, NJ
- Morris County, NJ
- Orange, NJ
- Union County, NJ
- Passaic County, NJ
- East Orange, NJ
- Monmouth County, NJ
- West Orange, NJ
- Bergen County, NJ
- Middlesex County, NJ
- Ocean County, NJ
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle riders are often accused of unsafe driving due to their increased risk of accidents and serious injuries. However, that is not always the case. Car and truck drivers have an advantage because of the size and weight of their vehicles. They also have blind spots that motorcycles don’t have and may fail to notice riders when switching lanes. Identifying the cause of the crash is a critical first step in proving negligence and building a strong personal injury claim.
Common types of motorcycle accidents include:
- Failure to yield the right of way at intersections
- Left-turn accidents involving oncoming traffic
- Collisions between motorcycles and fixed objects, including road dividers or guardrails
- Road hazards such as potholes, debris, or uneven pavement
- Distracted driving, including texting or using a phone
- Unsafe lane changes and blind-spot collisions
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Common Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents
There are about 90,000 injuries and nearly 5,000 deaths from motorcycle crashes in the US each year, according to the National Highway Transit Safety Association. Motorcycles lack many of the basic safety features found in cars like seatbelts and airbags. Because of this, motorcycle accidents can lead to serious injuries:
- Head and neck injuries
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries, including concussions
- Severe road rash
- Loss of limbs
- Significant scarring
- Muscle and soft tissue damage
- Psychological damage
- Back or joint injuries
Common motorcycle accident injuries also include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), paralysis, internal organ damage, and severe soft-tissue injuries. Head and neck injuries are especially common and can have permanent cognitive or physical effects.
These injuries frequently require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and time away from work. In the most severe cases, victims may face permanent disability or loss of independence.
A lawyer can help you pursue financial compensation for costs arising from these kinds of injuries. Because of the catastrophic nature of the injuries related to motorcycle accidents, the costs that these injuries incur can be very high.
Damages You Can Recover After a Motorcycle Accident
If your motorcycle accident was caused by another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical expenses (past, current, and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Property damage to your motorcycle
The value of a motorcycle accident claim depends on the severity of the injuries, the impact on your daily life, and the available insurance coverage.
When a Motorcycle Accident Becomes a Wrongful Death Claim
When a motorcycle accident results in a fatal injury, surviving family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim under New Jersey law. These claims allow families to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional loss of companionship and guidance.
Wrongful death cases are complex and time-sensitive. An experienced attorney can help determine who is eligible to file the claim and what damages may be recoverable.
How New Jersey’s Comparative Negligence Law Impacts Your Claim
New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident, and you may still recover damages as long as you are less than 51% responsible.
For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your total compensation would be reduced by 20%. Issues such as speeding, lane positioning, or helmet use may be raised by insurance companies to shift blame, even when another driver caused the crash.
Our attorneys work to challenge unfair fault allegations and protect the full value of your claim.
New Jersey Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accidents
In most motorcycle accident cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in New Jersey. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your right to recover compensation.
If your accident involved a government-owned vehicle or unsafe road conditions caused by a public entity, you may also be required to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident. These shorter deadlines make it critical to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
Benefits of Choosing Our Motorcycle Accident Law Firm
Choosing the right lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. We understand the bias motorcyclists often face and are committed to protecting riders’ rights.
When you work with our firm, you benefit from:
- Extensive experience handling motorcycle accident claims
- A thorough investigation of liability and damages
- Direct communication and personalized legal guidance
- Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies
- Trial-ready representation when fair settlements are not offered
Schedule Your Free Consultation With Our Motorcycle Attorney
If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident, help is available. Our firm offers free, confidential consultations to discuss your legal options. You can call our office, complete our online contact form, or request a virtual consultation from the comfort of your home.
There are no upfront fees, and you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are typical motorcycle accident settlements in New Jersey?
Motorcycle accident settlements in New Jersey vary widely depending on the severity of the injuries, medical costs, lost income, and long-term impact on the victim’s life. Minor injury cases may settle for less, while catastrophic injury or wrongful death cases can result in significantly higher compensation.
Should I hire a lawyer after a motorcycle accident?
Yes. Motorcycle accident cases often involve serious injuries and insurance companies that attempt to minimize payouts by blaming the rider. An experienced attorney can protect your rights, handle negotiations, and pursue full compensation.
How much does it cost to hire your firm for a motorcycle accident case?
We handle motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees upfront. Our fee is only collected if we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in New Jersey?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Claims involving government entities may have much shorter deadlines, so it is important to act quickly.
Can I still get compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet or was partly at fault?
Yes. Not wearing a helmet or being partially at fault does not automatically prevent you from recovering compensation. Under New Jersey’s comparative negligence law, you may still recover damages as long as you are less than 51% responsible, though your compensation may be reduced.
Contact Us and Consult with Our Motorcycle Attorney Today
If you need a lawyer with decades of experience helping clients win their motorcycle accident claims, attorney Friedman can help. He has spent more than three decades helping clients collect the financial compensation they deserve. He has years of proven real-world experience trying motorcycle accident lawsuits. Because of this, the Law Offices of Mitchell Friedman has established a reputation as a reliable law firm for motorcycle accident cases in the Hudson, Essex, and Union County, NJ, areas. If you need help, he’ll be there for you. Don’t wait. Call the Law Offices of Mitchell Friedman today.