Understanding New Jersey Motorcycle Accident Law

Many new motorcycle riders have questions about New Jersey motorcycle accident law. You might not be sure that motorcyclists have the same rights on New Jersey roads as everyone else. You might wonder if motorcycle operators can win motorcycle accident lawsuits.

You should be concerned; although the laws governing the ownership and operation of motorcycles in New Jersey do take into account the unique aspects of biking, in motorbike accident litigation motor cycle drivers are equal to all other drivers and motorcycles are just one type of motor vehicle. Lundy Law promotes motorcycle safety awareness. We help drivers in accidents know their rights and get justice.

Requirements for Motorcycle Operation in New Jersey:

• You must be licensed by the state.
• You must be at least 17 years old and pass the 6-point ID verification.

If you are a beginning driver, you will need to practice driving with a permit, accompanied by a New Jersey licensed motorcyclist on a separate motorcycle for at least 20 days before you will be eligible for a license.

Like all drivers, you must pass a knowledge and vision test to qualify for your license. There is a New Jersey Driver Manual and special Motorcycle Manual.

You must also either take an approved Motorcycle Safety Education Program and provide the state with proof that you successfully completed the course or go to a Driver Testing Center with a registered, insured motorcycle to take the road test.

In New Jersey, you may be issued a motorcycle driver’s license or a motorcycle certification may be added to your regular driver’s license.

• You and any passenger on your motorcycle must wear Federal Department of Transportation (DOT) approved helmets
• You must have eye protection or a windshield
• Your motorbike must pass a periodic New Jersey state inspection just like an automobile
• You must have proper insurance

Insurance Coverage for Motorcycles in New Jersey

The State of New Jersey requires motorcycle owners/operators to have insurance policies with mandatory minimum limits to protect both the riders and others. The law requires a policy providing a minimum amount of liability coverage for all persons injured in a motorcycle accident. In addition to this liability insurance coverage, Lundy Law recommends purchasing additional coverage for uninsured and under insured motorist coverage.

Unlike the personal injury protection (PIP) benefits contained in automobile insurance policies, motorcycle insurance policies do not automatically provide for the payment of medical bills for the owner/operator or passenger of the motorcycle involved in an accident. Pedestrians who may be struck by motorcycles are offered this protection. Be sure you add those benefits to your policy.

Laws for Operation and Rights in an Accident

If you drive a motorcycle, you must obey all the laws and rules of the road that every other motor vehicle operator must obey, including regulations about turn signals, lane changes, braking, passing, and, of course, speed limits.

Motorcyclists in New Jersey are often stereotyped as reckless, aggressive, law-breaking drivers who cause accidents. The motorcycle lawyers at Lundy Law, however, know that motorcyclists are more often the victims of other drivers’ mistakes and traffic violations. At Lundy Law, we’ve been defending riders’ rights for 50 years; because we know that the great majority of New Jersey motorcyclists are, like you, responsible, safety-conscious, law-abiding drivers. We will not allow negative stereotyping to stand in the way of justice for our New Jersey motorcycle drivers and riders who are injured in accidents.

Call the New Jersey motorcycle accident attorneys at Lundy Law today at 866-281-8612, or feel free to contact us via our web form.