Spring Means More Motorcycles on the Road, So Be Aware
As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, more motorcyclists are out enjoying the open road. At Sarno da Costa D’Aniello Maceri Webb LLC, our motorcycle accident lawyers have seen firsthand the devastating repercussions and injuries motorcyclists often suffer after a crash. Led by Paul M. da Costa, our personal injury team helps clients in New Jersey obtain the compensation they deserve after being injured in a motorcycle crash. Here, we discuss how to keep yourself safer on the road and what to do if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident.
Spring Can Be a High-Risk Time for Motorcycle Crashes
Although they’re always vulnerable to injury because they have no protection surrounding them, motorcyclists face unique hazards and challenges during the spring season. Mild weather and sunshine mean more drivers are out and about, which leads to increased traffic on highways and rural roads.
Winter is tough on the roads in New Jersey, and potholes and other damage to pavement may not be repaired right away. In the spring there are more road construction zones as well, which can be particularly hazardous for motorcyclists to navigate.
Drivers may be more distracted than usual, looking around at blooming trees and scenery, and failing to notice motorcyclists. This can lead to serious motorcycle crashes and auto accidents that can result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. It also rains quite often in spring and early summer. When clouds roll in unexpectedly, motorcyclists may end up driving in inclement weather that decreases their visibility and stability on the road.
How to Stay Safe on a Motorcycle
Riding smart and staying aware are crucial for motorcyclists. If you ride a motorcycle, it’s important to make yourself visible with reflective clothing and ensure all lights on your bike are in good working order. Before taking your bike out, do a thorough inspection of the tires, lights, turn signals, and brakes. Always stay aware of your surroundings, including watching for debris or potholes in the road. Avoid dangerous practices like lane splitting, weaving, or speeding.
Helmets save lives and can prevent serious head and neck injuries. In New Jersey, motorcycle riders and passengers are required by law to wear DOT-approved helmets. Riding without a helmet not only makes you more vulnerable to serious injury, it can have a negative impact on your case if you decide to file a personal injury claim. Always wear a helmet and proper riding gear like pants, a jacket, and boots.
Drivers of other motor vehicles should also be on the lookout for motorcycles. Make sure to check your blind spots when changing lanes, look twice before turning left at intersections, use turn signals, and keep a safe following distance behind motorcycles. A fatal accident can happen in a matter of seconds, so you should also avoid dangerous behaviors like texting and driving.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Motorcycle Crash in New Jersey
Even if you’re a careful, conscientious motorcyclist, accidents happen. If you’re involved in a motorcycle crash, it’s vital to take steps to protect your rights. If possible, move to a safe area and call 911 immediately. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention as soon as you can. Symptoms of serious injuries such as internal bleeding and traumatic brain injury may not be apparent right way. Your motorcycle accident lawyer will need medical records to support your claim if someone else was responsible for your injuries.
Exchange contact and insurance information with all involved parties and gather contact information from any witnesses as well. Take photos of the scene, damage to your motorcycle and other vehicles, and your injuries. Do not admit fault or say “I’m sorry” to anyone. If an insurance adjuster contacts you, do not give a statement, sign anything, or accept a settlement before talking to a lawyer first.
Contacting a personal injury attorney as soon as possible can help to ensure your rights and interests are protected. Although New Jersey is a no-fault state for car accidents, which means drivers can file claims for damages with their own insurance company, this law does not apply to motorcycles. If a motorcyclist is injured in a crash, they must file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance to seek compensation for damages. Our attorneys can evaluate your case and determine whether you have a viable claim.
Our New Jersey Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Fight for Your Rights
Our motorcycle accident lawyers manage all communications and negotiations with insurance companies and fight to help you get the full and fair amount of compensation you need to safeguard your health and financial security. Paul M. da Costa and his dedicated team of personal injury attorneys provide compassionate, tenacious legal representation you can trust. They have obtained substantial seven-figure verdicts and eight-figure settlements for personal injury clients throughout New Jersey. If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle crash due to someone else’s negligence, we may be able to help you obtain compensation for damages such as:
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium or companionship
- Loss of enjoyment of life
If a reasonable settlement can’t be reached through negotiation, Paul and members of our personal injury team are certified civil trial attorneys with a record of success winning cases both inside and outside the courtroom.
Our Personal Injury Attorneys Stand by Your Side Every Step of the Way
At Sarno da Costa D’Aniello Maceri Webb LLC, we know that being injured or losing a loved one in a motorcycle accident can have devastating consequences. We’re here to help you understand your legal options and fight for the justice you deserve. Your initial consultation is always free, and our New Jersey personal injury attorneys work on contingency, which means we don’t get paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case.
Contact Our New Jersey Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Today
Our personal injury team at Sarno da Costa D’Aniello Maceri Webb LLC is passionate about helping make things right for injured victims and their families. To learn more about how our motorcycle accident lawyers can help, contact us or call 973-274-5200 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with Paul M. da Costa today. Our motorcycle crash attorneys serve clients in New Jersey in several convenient locations, including Roseland, Bridgewater, Hackensack, Morristown, and Eatontown, NJ.
