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Why You Should Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Hiring a New Jersey motorcycle accident attorney can make a big difference in your chances of getting the compensation you deserve. This article will discuss the most common reasons why motorcycle riders are not adequately compensated for accidents. These reasons include speeding, lack of safety features, and negligence. The article will also discuss other common damages that bikers can recover, such as loss of consortium. Here are some examples. Read on to learn more about each of these reasons.
Negligence or recklessness of another driver
A motorcycle accident is an unfortunate and often painful experience. Not only is the motorcycle rider not wearing a helmet, but also they are not able to control the actions of other drivers. Luckily, a motorcycle accident lawyer in New Jersey can help you recover the damages and losses incurred due to the negligent actions of another driver. This lawyer can also fight against unreasonable accusations of fault.
Speed
The speed of a motorcyclist is one of the most common causes of a motorcycle accident. According to the National Highway and Transport Safety Authority, speeding accounts for more than one-third of all motorcycle accidents. Inexperienced motorcycle riders and high speed are among the leading causes of these accidents, and the speeding of the driver is often a contributing factor. Motorcycles also lack the exterior protection of other vehicles, so they absorb most of the impact of a collision. Moreover, they often hit a vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour.
Lack of safety features
The lack of safety features on motorcycles is one of the leading causes of motor vehicle fatalities. While some motorized vehicles have some safety features, they are largely insufficient in protecting the rider from severe injuries. Approximately 5,000 motorcyclists die each year in crashes. These riders are also at greater risk of catastrophic injuries than car or truck drivers. Motorcyclists are more vulnerable in accidents because their speed, range, and movement differ from other types of vehicles. While protective gear is required, it is not sufficient to protect riders from catastrophic injuries.
Loss of consortium damages
If your spouse or partner died in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to loss of consortium damages. Loss of consortium damages are a separate legal claim from the motorcyclist’s claim. The loss of your companionship, or lack thereof, can result in a significant financial payout. In these cases, an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will use this claim to prove the extent of your loss. While the vast majority of loss of consortium cases involve a spouse, it can also apply to a parent and child relationship.
Time limit for filing a claim
There are two main ways to file a motorcycle accident claim: through a settlement or trial. Although settlement is often the faster option, a trial will be more time-consuming, requiring extensive preparation and evidence gathering. This article outlines the steps of a motorcycle accident claim. First, it is critical to know your state’s statute of limitations. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
Insurance options after a motorcycle crash in New Jersey
Most motorcycle insurance policies in New Jersey do not include no-fault PIP coverage. This means you will have to use your own health insurance or medical expenses coverage after a crash. If the other driver’s insurance does not cover your medical expenses, you may have to file a lawsuit and seek compensation through your own policy. If the other driver was at fault, you may be able to sue for your own injuries, but you will have to pay your deductible and co-pays.
