a motorcycle accident

Motorcycle Accident Attorney Helping Victims in Bergen County

The thrill of the open road makes motorcycle riding an alluring adventure, but it can take a sudden tragic turn when an accident occurs. Bikers are at high risk of injury because they are not protected by the “cage” of a typical car or truck, which leaves them exposed to serious harm in collisions with other vehicles, fixed objects, or the pavement. Pursuing an injury claim without proper legal counsel can be challenging for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the public’s misconception of bikers. The surest way to overcome any hurdles is by working with an experienced, knowledgeable personal injury attorney.

The Bergen County law firm of Levin & Malkin is the premier personal injury firm serving clients since 1975. We have the knowledge and experience essential for pursuing a successful motorcycle accident claim. Well-versed in the applicable negligence laws and motorcycle safety rules, we will work tirelessly to make sure you receive the medical care you need and the financial compensation you deserve for your injuries, your loss of income, and your damaged or destroyed motorcycle.

Common Causes of a Motorcycle Accident

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the majority of motorcycle collisions involving other vehicles are the result of car and truck driver errors, such as:

  • Failure to observe motorcycles
  • Distracted driving
  • Improper turning
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Failing to yield to motorcycles
  • Driving under the influence
  • Reckless driving.

All drivers in New Jersey are required to operate their vehicles safely and avoid injuring others. The law refers to this as the “duty of care.” You will have a successful claim when the other driver breached this duty and was responsible for your injuries and all other losses.

In addition to driver errors, motorcycle accidents are often caused by road hazards — uneven pavement, debris, oil spills, gravel, and potholes. In such situations, it is possible to proceed against the public agency responsible for road and highway maintenance, taking care that all procedural rules are followed. Finally, in the event that a motorcycle defect has caused an accident, pursuing a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor may be an additional option.

Motorcycle Accident Injuries

The majority of motorcycle accidents are collisions which can cause serious injuries, such as head injuries, fractured bones, leg injuries, road rash, muscle damage, spinal cord injuries, paralysis, and tragically, wrongful death. Although motorcycle riders can reduce the level of injury by wearing protective gear — helmets, leather jackets, heavy pants, motorcycle boots, and gloves — a motorcycle accident can still lead to serious injuries.

Many motorcycle accident victims experience pain and suffering, face significant medical bills and are unable to work for extended periods of time. Bikers who sustain catastrophic injuries often require lifelong care, which can be a difficult emotional and financial burden not only on the victim but on the loved ones as well. The motorcycle accident attorneys at Levin and Malkin can help to lift that burden by offering you the finest legal representation and caring, efficient service.

Motorcycle Safety Laws

In addition to observing the rules of the road and traffic safety laws, all motorcycle riders in New Jersey must follow safety laws, starting with wearing a helmet — riders and passengers must wear a helmet at all times which conforms to state standards. Motorcycle riders must also wear protective eye gear, unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen.

In addition, riders and passengers must be provided with a seat and footrest, and motorcycles must have safety equipment such as a day-running headlight and side-view mirrors, as well as a muffler that adheres to maximum decibel restrictions. Finally, all motorcycle owners must carry at least the minimum liability insurance coverage

Contact Our Hackensack Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Levin & Malkin has a proven history of successfully handling motorcycle accident claims. We know how to win even the most difficult motorcycle accident cases. Our legal team will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident and work diligently to show that the other driver was responsible for your injuries.

It is important to remember that motorcycle accident claims are typically resolved through complex negotiations with an insurance company. We use our knowledge and skill to make sure you receive the full value of your claim. If the insurer fails to make a satisfactory settlement offer, we are prepared to fight for you in court. Above all, your recovery matters to us, which is why we will work to ensure that any award considers all of your future financial and medical needs.

We understand you may have many concerns — where to find the proper medical care, how to cover the medical bills, how to support your family — while trying to recover and get back to your normal routine. We will address those concerns by offering you highly skilled legal representation and caring personal attention. Through the years we have established relationships with a network of credentialed medical professionals who are available to provide you with the medical care you need. We have also utilized their expertise to provide expert medical testimony in support of our clients’ claims.

Whether inside or outside of the courtroom, we vigorously work to help you recover your legal damages such as lost wages, medical expenses, loss of earning capacity, property damage, pain and suffering, and all other losses. As overwhelming as a motorcycle accident is, you can rest assured that we will never stop fighting for you. Contact our office today to set up a free consultation with one of our motorcycle accident attorneys.