Gloucester County Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Gloucester County Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Motorcycle accidents often lead to serious injuries or even fatalities due to the lack of protection motorcycles provide compared to passenger vehicles. The risks faced by motorcyclists are significant, and the legal process after an accident can be challenging. Injured riders may face medical bills, lost income, and insurance disputes, which add to the stress of recovery. A skilled legal team can help you address these issues with focused attention on the specific demands of motorcycle accident cases.
At Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC, our Gloucester County motorcycle accident lawyers have considerable experience with these cases and help clients pursue fair compensation for their damages. We understand the particular challenges that arise from these types of collisions, and advocate for injured parties while striving to protect their rights under the law. With thorough knowledge of the common injuries experienced by our clients, local traffic laws, and insurance regulations, we work to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a compelling case for compensation.
What Are the Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Gloucester County?
Motorcycle accidents frequently result from other drivers failing to see motorcyclists, exhibiting reckless driving, distracted driving, or speeding. Road hazards, poor weather conditions, and poor road maintenance can also contribute to collisions involving motorcycles. In other cases, motorcyclists cause crashes through inexperience or poor judgment.
What Types of Injuries Are Common in Motorcycle Accidents?
Injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents tend to be severe, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, road rash, and, in some cases, fatal injuries. The lack of protective barriers makes motorcyclists particularly vulnerable.
How Does the Law Address Fault in Motorcycle Accidents?
New Jersey follows a “comparative negligence” system, which means fault can be shared between parties. Compensation may be reduced if the injured motorcyclist is found partly responsible for the accident.
What Evidence Is Important in a Motorcycle Accident Case?
To demonstrate liability, our Gloucester County motorcycle accident lawyers source evidence like police reports, witness statements, and photographs or video footage of the accident scene. Medical records and expert analysis related to the accident cause and injury impact can also serve as evidence.
Are There Specific Laws Protecting Motorcyclists in New Jersey?
New Jersey law requires motorcyclists to wear helmets; like any other driver, they must also follow traffic regulations. The state also enforces mandatory motorcycle endorsement requirements on driver’s licenses and sets equipment standards for items such as headlights, mirrors, and turn signals.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident?
If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic; then, call emergency services to report the accident. Our Gloucester County motorcycle accident lawyers also suggest taking pictures of the other driver’s license, insurance, and registration cards; gathering witness contact details and taking photos of the scene can also be helpful. Seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries do not seem apparent at the time.
How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Gloucester County?
The statute of limitations in New Jersey for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline may result in losing the right to seek compensation. Some exceptions apply; our Gloucester County motorcycle accident lawyers can explain them in detail.
What Compensation Can Be Claimed in a Motorcycle Accident Case?
A claimant’s compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and in some cases, punitive damages. The amount depends on the severity of injuries and the impact on the injured party’s life.
How Do Insurance Companies Typically Handle Motorcycle Accident Claims?
Motorcycle accidents should be reported promptly, but never admit fault or say anything else that could jeopardize your claim. We also advise against signing a settlement without getting a legal consultation. Remember, insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts by disputing fault or injury severity. Our Gloucester County motorcycle accident lawyers advocate for fair compensation during negotiations or litigation.
Can I Handle a Motorcycle Accident Claim Without a Lawyer?
While it is possible to manage a claim independently, motorcycle accident cases often involve complicated factors such as liability disputes and serious injuries, making legal representation beneficial.
Can Fault Be Shared Between Motorcyclists and Other Drivers?
Yes, under New Jersey’s comparative fault rules, both parties can share responsibility. This may reduce the amount of compensation, but does not necessarily bar recovery. The percentage of fault assigned directly influences the amount awarded in damages.
How Does the Claims Process Typically Proceed After a Motorcycle Accident?
After reporting the accident, the claim usually involves an investigation phase and negotiations with insurance adjusters. This process may include collecting detailed medical records, consulting accident reconstruction professionals, and reviewing financial losses to support the claim’s value. If a settlement cannot be negotiated, the claim may proceed to trial.
Is There a Difference Between Motorcycle Accident Cases and Other Vehicle Accident Cases?
Yes, these differences can include higher injury severity, the motorcyclist’s visibility to other drivers, and specific safety equipment regulations. Also, motorcyclists are sometimes unfairly perceived as reckless or unsafe, which can influence how fault is evaluated. This perception is not always accurate, yet it may affect witness statements, insurance assessments, and even jury opinions during litigation. Addressing these biases is an important part of presenting a fair and accurate account of the incident.
What Are Common Challenges in Motorcycle Accident Cases?
These challenges can include establishing liability when drivers deny fault, dealing with insurance company tactics, and proving the extent of injuries when disputes arise. Other difficulties may involve gathering sufficient evidence, addressing witness inconsistencies, and managing delays in medical treatment or documentation that can affect the strength of a claim. These factors often require thorough investigation and persistence to overcome obstacles in the pursuit of fair compensation.
Let the Gloucester County Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC Protect Your Rights
If you need legal guidance after a crash, contact the Gloucester County motorcycle accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC. Call today at 732-920-8383 or contact us online for a free consultation. With office locations in Manasquan and Brick, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients across New Jersey.
Manasquan, NJ
Hours of Operation
Tuesday: 8AM – 5:30PM
Wednesday: 8AM – 5:30PM
Thursday: 8AM – 5:30PM
Friday: 8AM – 5:30PM
Saturday: 8:30AM – 12:30PM
Sunday: CLOSED
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