Palisades Park, NJ Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Traveling by motorcycle in Palisades Park can be exhilarating. However, careless drivers often ignore the safety of riders, leading to severe injuries and even fatalities.
Jerry and his team understand that most accidents occur due to the negligence of the other driver, not the motorcyclist. You have just as much right to be safe, and if you are injured because of someone else’s actions, you deserve to be compensated fairly for your losses. The fact that you choose to travel on a motorcycle should not impact your rights and the compensation you deserve. Reach out to our firm to get your case started on the right track.
Call motorcycle accident attorney Jerry Friedman at 1-800-529-4464 for a free case review today.
Helmet and Eye Protection Laws in Palisades Park, NJ
The law is clear: all motorcyclists must wear a helmet according to N.J.S.A. § 39:3-76.7. This includes both drivers and passengers. Helmets must also comply with minimum performance requirements established by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Administration. This regulation outlines specific design and construction elements that helmets must meet to ensure they provide adequate protection during a crash.
In addition to wearing a helmet, the law mandates the use of eye protection unless the rider’s motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen. Eye protection can include glasses, goggles, or a shield.
It is vital for motorcyclists to comply with these laws, as not doing so can result in severe consequences. In the event of an accident, not wearing a helmet or eye protection can increase the risk of injury. Additionally, riders who fail to comply with these laws can face penalties and expensive fines. Moreover, if a rider is involved in an accident while not wearing a helmet or eye protection, it could potentially affect their ability to recover damages from the other party involved since they can argue that you contributed to your injuries by not complying with the law.
Lane Usage Rules for Motorcycles in Palisades Park, NJ
In Palisades Park, motorcyclists are required to follow the same lane usage laws as any other vehicle. This means that they must stay within their designated lane, change lanes safely, and use specific lanes for turns as indicated by road signs.
However, lane splitting is strictly prohibited in this state. Lane splitting refers to the practice of riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. If a motorcyclist is involved in an accident while lane splitting, it can be extremely difficult to seek compensation for damages since the defendant can argue that the accident would not have occurred but for the lane splitting.
However, a bill, A4668, has recently been proposed that would permit motorcyclists to engage in lane splitting at slow speeds not exceeding 15 mph. If passed, this bill could significantly change the lane usage rules for motorcyclists not only in Palisades Park but throughout New Jersey. While it could help alleviate traffic congestion, it will most likely create new safety hazards and opportunities for devastating accidents.
Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in Palisades Park, NJ
All motorcyclists in Palisades Park must carry liability insurance. This type of insurance is specifically designed to cover the costs of bodily injury and property damage that motorcyclists might suffer in the event of an accident. The minimum coverage limits for liability insurance are $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for total bodily injury if multiple people are injured, and $5,000 for property damage. These limits are the absolute minimums set by the state, but additional coverage can be purchased.
These minimum limits may not be sufficient for many motorcyclists, who may choose to purchase higher limits for additional protection. Those who frequently ride in high-traffic areas or who have valuable assets on their bike may find it beneficial to purchase more comprehensive coverage.
In contrast, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which covers medical expenses for the insured driver regardless of fault, is not required for motorcyclists. This is because motorcycles are not considered “automobiles” under New Jersey’s Automobile Reparation Reform Act.
However, even though PIP insurance is not mandatory for riders, it can still be a wise investment. It can cover medical costs, lost wages, and other expenses following an accident without having to provide extensive evidence of the other party’s fault, making the recovery process less financially stressful.
How Contributory Negligence Works in a Palisades Park, NJ Motorcycle Accident Case
Contributory negligence refers to the concept where an injured party’s own negligence contributed to their injuries. If it is determined that the injured party was partially at fault for the accident, this defense can be raised to reduce the amount of damages they can recover.
However, the state follows a modified comparative negligence rule, not a pure contributory negligence rule. Under N.J.S.A. § 2A:15-5.1, an injured party can still recover damages as long as they are less than 51% at fault for the accident.
In a motorcycle accident in Palisades Park, the principle of contributory negligence comes into play when determining liability and compensation totals. For example, if a motorcyclist was speeding at the time of an accident, they may be found partially at fault. As per the modified comparative negligence rule, if the motorcyclist is found to be 30% responsible for the accident, their damages award would be reduced by that percentage.
The impact of contributory negligence on a motorcycle accident case can be significant. If a rider is found to be partially at fault, their compensation will be reduced proportionally. Furthermore, if a rider is found to be more than 51% at fault, they may not be able to recover any damages under New Jersey’s modified comparative negligence rule.
Motorcycle Licensing Requirements in Palisades Park, NJ
There are certain age requirements that aspiring motorcyclists must meet in order to obtain a license to ride on public roads. If you are under the age of 17, you are not eligible to obtain a motorcycle permit. However, once you reach the age of 17, you can apply for a permit, provided that you meet the other requirements.
If you are under the age of 18, you will need to have parental or guardian consent in order to obtain a motorcycle permit. Additionally, anyone under 18 must complete the Motorcycle Safety Education Program Basic Rider Course before receiving a motorcycle endorsement.
Once you turn 18, you can apply for a motorcycle license. The motorcycle endorsement is a special designation on your driver’s license that signifies that you have demonstrated the necessary skills and knowledge to safely operate a motorcycle.
Our Palisades Park, NJ Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Are Here to Fight for Your Rights
For a free evaluation of your case with a skilled motorcycle accident attorney, call Jerry Friedman at 1-800-529-4464.
