Though riding on a motorcycle can be fun, you leave yourself open to serious injury if you are involved in an accident. This goes for both the driver and the passenger. You are open to the elements and do not have the same protection you would if you were driving in a car, for example. Because of this, injuries can be very severe.
If you're a passenger and were injured in the motorcycle accident, there's a number of factors to take into account. We will cover some of them in this article.
However, it's important to understand that no matter how much you know about laws and injuries surrounding a motorcycle accident, an experienced New Jersey motorcycle accident lawyer can help you take the correct steps in pursuing damages in the aftermath of the accident. Brandon J. Broderick is skilled at assisting clients navigate an injury case. If you have questions, contact our offices today to schedule a free call.
Single-Motorcycle Accidents
Generally, people believe car accidents involve two or more vehicles. However, single-motorcycle accidents can occur for a number of reasons. If a rider is taking a turn too quickly, runs into or swerves to avoid debris on the road, or has a mechanical problem, they may crash, even if no other vehicle is around. You may even spin out if you hit an uneven portion of the road. This is why it's important to wear a helmet, whether you're the driver or the passenger on a motorcycle.
Depending on the situation, the insurance of the person driving the motorcycle will pay for injuries sustained by a passenger in a single-vehicle accident, including medical expenses and lost wages. However, if there was malfunction or a defective part was found to have caused the accident, the manufacturer may be liable. Also, if road debris caused the accident and it was left there due to someone else's negligence, you may be able to seek damages from them. You might be entitled to sue a homeowner, for instance, if tree branches from their yard end up on the road and cause an accident.
Speak to a motorcycle accident lawyer if you have specific questions regarding your accident and who is at fault.
Multi-Vehicle Motorcycle Accidents
When there are serious injuries or fatalities, it is usually due to injuries on a motorcycle involving other vehicles. These accidents typically happen when a driver fails to notice a motorcycle, particularly when making a left turn. Although every situation is different, an injured motorcycle passenger will generally sue other drivers and the motorcycle's operator.
Figuring out and determining who was at fault is important in any accident, especially a motorcycle accident. After figuring out this important piece of information, an injured party can pursue damages.
An attorney with experience managing cases involving motorcycle accidents can be extremely beneficial to investigating your accident, locate what sources of compensation that may be available, and determine the exact worth of your claim.
Steps After a Motorcycle Accident
What should you do after a motorcycle accident? Here's obvious steps you should take:
- Seek appropriate medical attention.
- Get to safety, dial 911, and wait for emergency personnel.
- If you can, check to see if anyone else needs help.
- Photograph the scene, the damaged cars, and your injuries
- Obtain insurance information from the motorcycle's driver and any other drivers who may have been involved.
- Write down the contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
Do not put off seeing a healthcare provider even if you think your injuries are minor. Head to the ER and get checked out because major injuries like internal bleeding may not have immediate symptoms. Not only will any injuries be treated, but paperwork like medical records and the results of others tests also serves as important proof in the event that you choose to later submit a personal injury lawsuit.
Seek legal help from a New Jersey motorcycle accident attorney. Do this before speaking to any insurance adjusters, accepting a settlement, or signing any documents.
Injuries You May Sustain in a Motorcycle Accident Injury
Life-altering catastrophic injuries may necessitate expensive operations, prolonged hospital stays, physical therapy, and long-term care. Among the frequent injuries experienced by motorcycle passengers are:
- Neck injuries
- Head trauma
- Spinal injuries
- Traumatic brain injury
- Broken bones
- Road rash
- Amputation
- Internal bleeding
- Permanent disability
- Disfigurement
Regrettably, insurers will frequently attempt to minimize victims' injuries or reject claims. Motorcycle accident attorneys are aware of these strategies and work to get you the maximum amount of money you are entitled to for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Get Legal Representation After a New Jersey Motorcycle Accident
You should consult with a motorcycle accident attorney if you were seriously injured, believe the accident was someone else's fault, or have any other legal questions regarding your case.
If you retain the services of Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we will handle everything related to your case, including communication with the insurance company and the pursuit of financial compensation for injuries and related damages. The chances of receiving an unfair settlement increase if you do not have legal assistance.
There is no upfront cost when you hire Brandon J. Broderick as your motorcycle accident lawyer. If we represent you and are successful, only then will we take a fee. If we lose, you do not owe us a dime.
For a free consultation, please get in touch with us right away. We have a history of success and are committed to providing excellent service to each of our clients, so we know we can assist you in getting past this obstacle.