If you’ve been injured in an accident in New Jersey, you might assume that the laws and insurance rules are the same regardless of whether you were driving a car or riding a motorcycle. However, motorcycle accident victims often encounter unique challenges when dealing with the aftermath. Please continue reading to learn why motorcycle accidents are treated differently from car accidents in the Garden State, and how our dedicated Union County Motorcycle Accident Lawyers can help protect your rights. 

How Does Insurance Work for Motorcycle Accidents? 

A significant distinction between accident claims for cars and motorcycles in New Jersey centers on insurance coverage. New Jersey’s standard no-fault insurance structure, which provides Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, doesn’t apply to motorcycles. Consequently, motorcyclists usually do not automatically receive PIP benefits for medical bills and lost earnings. Instead, injured parties are typically required to pursue a claim directly against the individual responsible for the accident to recover compensation for their economic and non-economic damages. 

A common challenge in New Jersey motorcycle accident claims is the unfortunate influence of bias, often stemming from the negative stereotypes about motorcyclists. There are also frequent attempts to shift fault to the rider, creating disputes over liability. 

Are Motorcycle Injuries More Serious? 

Given the lack of physical protection, motorcycle injuries are generally much more serious. The absence of airbags and seatbelts on motorcycles means riders face a higher likelihood of ejection and greater exposure to the impact of an accident. Additionally, motorcycles are much smaller than standard vehicles, making them harder for other motorists to detect on the road, resulting in higher-speed crashes. 

Common motorcycle injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Severe road rash and burns 
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Internal injuries
  • Amputations 
  • Thorax/chest injuries

The severity of an injury can significantly impact the value of your claim. Essentially, the more serious the injury, the greater the amount of damages. You may face increased medical bills, long-term rehabilitation, loss of earning capacity, and more intense emotional distress. 

What Mistakes Should I Avoid? 

Taking certain steps can jeopardize your case. For instance, putting off necessary medical care can exacerbate your injuries and introduce damaging gaps in your medical documentation. Furthermore, agreeing to initial settlement proposals carries significant risk, especially when severe injuries are involved, since the proposed amount might not fully account for the full extent of your losses. 

At Lee Law Firm, LLC, we are prepared to help you maximize your chances of recovering the compensation you need to get your life back on track. Connect with us today to schedule a consultation.