Do Motorcycles Need to Be Inspected in New Jersey?

When riding a motorcycle, you want to know that it is safe and fully operational. New Jersey used to require motorcycle inspections by law to ensure this.

Now, though, you do not need to get your motorcycle inspected. At least, New Jersey law does not require it anymore. It is still worth getting your motorcycle inspected on your own every year or two to upkeep maintenance and spot any dangerous issues before they injure you. Regularly inspecting and maintaining your bike can also protect you during a legal claim. If you are injured in an accident, the other side will inspect your bike for issues you should have addressed earlier, potentially lessening the compensation you recover. While inspections are not mandatory, your motorcycle must remain in safe working order.

For a free assessment of your case with our knowledgeable New Jersey motorcycle accident attorney, contact Jerry Friedman today at 1-800-529-4464.

Do I Need to Get My Motorcycle Inspected in New Jersey?

At one point, New Jersey required riders to get their motorcycles inspected every two years to ensure they were roadworthy. As of 2010, that is no longer the case. N.J.S.A. § 13:20-7.2(c)(3) exempts motorcycles from the routine inspection requirements for ordinary cars. This also applies to motorized bikes and “autocycles,” NJ’s term for three-wheeled motorcycles. Your car will need to be inspected every two years if you own one, but not your motorcycle.

Should I Still Have My Motorcycle Routinely Inspected in New Jersey?

Just because you are not legally required to get your motorcycle inspected does not mean you should skip it altogether. Jerry Friedman, our NJ motorcycle accident lawyer, also rides and knows there are numerous reasons for regularly inspecting your bike. You are more likely to stay safe on the road by having your motorcycle inspected since you can detect dangerous mechanical problems before they injure you and repair them.

For instance, an inspection can reveal issues with your brake systems, such as pads and rotors needing replacement. Or, you might discover a faulty headlight that could have reduced your visibility at a critical moment. If you did not catch a defect in time and were injured, Jerry can help you determine what caused the accident and who should be sued for it. Motorcycle manufacturers and designers are often held liable when a defective part contributes to a crash.

Having your motorcycle inspected can also protect you if you do decide to pursue compensation in a lawsuit later. New Jersey is a modified comparative negligence state, meaning that your compensation will be reduced or denied if you are found to have contributed to your accident or the severity of your injuries. Under § 2A:15-5.1, you cannot recover any damages if you are found more negligent than the defendant.

Insurance providers and defense lawyers often claim riders contributed to the crash, hoping to rely on the negative biases and stereotypes surrounding motorcycles. They will be sure to examine all the evidence to see what can be used against you. For example, if they notice worn-out tires on your motorcycle, they can argue that your handling caused the accident or at least made it worse. A regular motorcycle inspection can prevent this, allowing you to maximize the award in your lawsuit.

Do I Need a Special License to Ride a Motorcycle in New Jersey?

You will need more than your basic driver’s license to ride your motorcycle in New Jersey legally. According to § 39:3-10(e), you can either add an “M” endorsement to your standard driver’s license or get a motorcycle-specific license if you do not have a regular one.

If you already have your driver’s license, you can get an M endorsement by completing a written knowledge test and a vision exam. After passing these, you must pass a road test to get your endorsement. However, § 39:3-10.31 will exempt you from the exams and road test if you have completed a state-approved Motorcycle Safety Education Program (MSEP). After completing these steps, you will have an M endorsement placed on your license.

To get just a motorcycle license, you must take the knowledge and vision tests, followed by your road test unless you completed a safety program. From there, you will receive a probationary license that you must ride under for one year before getting your graduated motorcycle license. However, riders younger than 18 must operate under a probationary license until they turn 18, even if that is more than a year away.

Jerry recommends completing a basic rider course before getting your license, regardless of your route, so you are fully prepared to take the road. In a rider education class, you will learn important NJ motorcycle laws you must comply with and safe riding practices while getting several hours of practice riding time. You will also not be restricted to motorcycles with smaller engine sizes if you complete an MSEP. Otherwise, you are only permitted to ride motorcycles that are 500cc or less.

How Do I Register My Motorcycle in New Jersey?

While you do not need to have your motorcycle inspected, you must register it with the state before riding it. First, you will need motorcycle insurance, which NJ requires. The minimum amount of liability insurance coverage you must purchase is $15,000. However, the minimum is not much money when you are recovering from a motorcycle accident. It is worth considering larger policies that can cover you if you sustain long-term injuries. Policy limits can go into the hundreds of thousands of dollars, covering more thoroughly than the minimum.

You are also required to carry uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance. This protects you if you are injured in a hit-and-run accident or the other driver lacks insurance or enough coverage to pay your losses.

Once you have proof of insurance, you can register with the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission, which you can learn more about here.

Call Our New Jersey Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today if You Were Hurt and Need Help Recovering Compensation

Contact Trenton, NJ motorcycle accident lawyer Jerry Friedman at 1-800-529-4464 for a free case review.