Riding a motorcycle is a great way to beat traffic in New Jersey and the Tri-State area or a fun hobby on the weekends. It’s not without risks, though. When a motorcycle operator is an accident, whether it’s a solo crash or they were hit by a car or truck, their injuries can be devastating. If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle crash, a Hackensack, NJ, motorcycle accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you need to pay for your medical care repair or replace your bike and help you move forward with your life.
Fighting for the compensation you deserve while you’re healing from a motorcycle accident, wondering whether you’ll be able to work again, can be overwhelming. We’re here to help. Contact Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C., today for a free consultation.
What Should I Look For In A Hackensack Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
Although motorcycle riding has become much more mainstream, there is still a little bit of a bias against motorcycle riders. Even if you follow all bike safety rules, wear a helmet and other protective gear, and obey the speed limit and other traffic regulations, you may still be perceived as reckless. When litigating these cases in court, it’s our job to minimize jury bias, and we do this by building a solid case, based on plenty of evidence, against the other party for negligence.
As your lawyers, we gather evidence like eyewitness testimony, the police report from the collision, photos of the scene, any CCTV, traffic cam, or other video recordings of the wreck, and data from each vehicle’s event data recorder (the “black box”) to demonstrate that the other party caused the wreck. We use the finer points of New Jersey motor vehicle accident laws and our experience litigating complicated claims to present your case and fight for maximum compensation for all your losses.
Hidden Complications In Motorcycle Accident Claims
Bias against motorcycle operators, either from a jury or the other party’s insurance company, is a challenge that other types of traffic collisions don’t have. Another factor that makes motorcycle accident cases more complex is the seriousness of the victim’s injuries. Without the protective metal shell and airbags of a car or truck, your body takes all of the force of the impact. Many people suffer permanent disability, scarring, and disfigurement.
The intensive medical treatment and rehabilitative care motorcycle injuries require often means that the value of the claim is much higher. Insurance companies scrutinize high-value claims, looking to pay the victim as little as possible. We’re here to stand up for your interests and protect your rights, helping you get proper compensation for medical care, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Skilled Attorneys Fighting For Your Rights
Do you need help recovering compensation after a motorcycle crash? We want to help you. The Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. legal team has the knowledge of New Jersey motorcycle accident laws and experience to handle even the most complex motorcycle accident claim. We’re fighters, and we’re ready to fight for your rights. Contact our firm today for a free case review with a Hackensack motorcycle accident lawyer.
Determining Fault In Motorcycle Accidents
An experienced Hackensack, NJ motorcycle accident lawyer can share insights on the types of evidence that can significantly impact the outcome of your motorcycle accident case. Determining fault in motorcycle accidents is crucial for legal claims. Motorcycle collisions often involve complex dynamics, making it essential to gather the right evidence promptly
Gathering Evidence At The Scene
The immediate aftermath of a motorcycle accident is the most critical time for evidence collection. First and foremost, photographs and videos of the accident scene can provide undeniable proof of conditions and vehicle positions. Ensure you capture different angles and details such as skid marks, road conditions, and damage to all vehicles involved.
Witness statements can also play a pivotal role. People who saw the accident unfold can provide details that might not be apparent from the physical evidence alone. It’s important to obtain contact information and a brief account from witnesses as soon as possible.
Police Reports And Official Documentation
Always report the accident to the police. The responding officers will create a police report, which often includes their observations and the statements provided by those involved and witnesses. This document is vital as it provides an initial expert view of the accident, which can be pivotal in establishing fault.
Additionally, gather all medical records related to injuries from the accident. These documents not only help in assessing the damages but also link the injuries directly to the accident, an essential element in proving fault and the extent of the impact.
Analyzing Physical And Digital Evidence
In today’s digital world, many vehicles, including motorcycles, are equipped with electronic systems that can record data before and during a collision. Accessing this digital evidence can offer insights into the speed, trajectory, and actions taken by the drivers just seconds before the impact.
Hiring a who can analyze both the physical and digital evidence can provide a clear picture of the accident dynamics. This analysis can be critical, especially when the fault is disputed by the parties involved.
Consult With Legal Professionals
At our firm, Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. we understand the importance of a thorough investigation. We work with technical experts who specialize in accident reconstruction. Hackensack motorcycle accident lawyers use the collected evidence to recreate the scene and establish fault scientifically.
The Importance Of Timely Action
Remember, the strength of your case often rests on the quality and integrity of the evidence. As time passes, evidence can be lost or destroyed, and witness memories may fade. Prompt action is crucial. We encourage you to seek legal assistance immediately after an accident to ensure that all relevant evidence is professionally collected and preserved.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. is here to offer our support and legal expertise. A skilled Hackensack motorcycle accident lawyer is committed to collecting the necessary evidence and providing the representation you need to establish fault and seek the compensation you deserve. Let us help you navigate through this challenging time with our professional guidance. Contact us to schedule your risk-free, and confidential consultation.
How To Build A Strong Case After A Motorcycle Accident
Whether it’s for filing an insurance claim or pursuing a lawsuit, a skilled Hackensack, NJ motorcycle accident lawyer can help. When involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s critical to take the right steps to protect your legal rights and help build a strong case. Below are some practical ways to gather key evidence and boost your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.
Gather And Preserve Evidence Immediately
One of the most important things we can do right after a motorcycle accident is to collect evidence. This includes taking photos of the scene, any visible injuries, and damages to the vehicles involved. It’s helpful to capture different angles and highlight any road conditions or weather factors that may have contributed to the accident. Keeping track of this evidence from the start makes it easier to build a case later on.
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if we think our injuries are minor, it’s essential to seek medical care right after the accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but could become more serious over time. Having medical records that document our injuries from the beginning helps to establish a clear connection between the accident and the harm suffered. These records can be valuable when making a claim for compensation.
Obtain Witness Information
Witnesses can play a crucial role in supporting our case. If there are people who saw the accident happen, it’s a good idea to gather their contact information as soon as possible. Their statements can corroborate our version of events, providing an extra layer of credibility to the claim. Make sure to follow up with witnesses promptly while their recollections are still fresh.
File A Police Report
Contacting law enforcement to report the accident is another important step. A police report often serves as an official account of the incident and may contain key details about the crash, including any traffic violations or negligence. This document is invaluable when building a strong legal case because it provides an unbiased third-party perspective.
Document Your Losses
We should keep a detailed record of any financial losses we experience due to the accident. This includes medical bills, repair costs for the motorcycle, and any lost wages if we’re unable to work. Proper documentation of these losses allows us to make a comprehensive claim for damages, ensuring that we’re compensated fairly for everything we’ve had to endure.
Work With An Experienced Attorney
While it’s possible to handle some parts of the claims process on our own, partnering with a skilled Hackensack motorcycle accident lawyer can make a significant difference. With over forty years of experience, our team at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. can help gather additional evidence, deal with insurance companies, and represent our interests in court if necessary. We offer insight into legal strategies that can strengthen your case, increasing the likelihood of a favorable resolution.
Stay Consistent And Honest
It’s essential to be truthful and consistent in all communications related to the accident. This applies when speaking to the police, attorneys, and insurance companies involved. Any discrepancies in our statements can weaken our case, so it’s best to stick to the facts and avoid embellishing details. Being upfront from the start builds credibility and trust.
Building a strong case after a motorcycle accident requires diligence and a clear understanding of the steps we need to take. By gathering evidence, seeking prompt medical attention, and working closely with a Hackensack motorcycle accident lawyer, we can strive for the best possible outcome. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, reach out to our award winning legal professionals today to discuss your options and protect your rights.
Top Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents And How To Avoid Them
A Hackensack, NJ motorcycle accident lawyer can explain the main causes of motorcycle accidents and the steps we can take to minimize the risks. Motorcycle accidents are, unfortunately, all too common, and many of them are preventable. Below, we highlight some of the top causes of motorcycle accidents and provide practical tips on how to avoid them.
Inadequate Road Awareness
One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is a lack of attention to the road ahead. When riders aren’t fully aware of their surroundings, it can lead to serious collisions, especially with other vehicles or stationary objects. The best way to avoid this is by making a conscious effort to keep our focus on the road at all times. Staying alert to other drivers’ actions, road conditions, and potential hazards helps us react quickly and avoid dangerous situations.
Speeding And Reckless Driving
According to Hackensack motorcycle accident lawyers, speeding is a major factor in many motorcycle accidents. When we ride too fast, we reduce our ability to respond to unexpected obstacles, sharp turns, or traffic changes. Sticking to posted speed limits and riding at a pace that allows for safe stopping distances can drastically reduce the likelihood of an accident. By exercising caution, we protect both ourselves and others on the road.
Inexperienced Riders
A significant number of accidents involve riders who are new to motorcycling or lack sufficient experience in handling their bikes. As we know, riding a motorcycle requires a different skill set than driving a car. For new riders, taking the time to practice in safe environments and gradually building experience is key. Completing a motorcycle safety course can also help new riders develop the skills needed to navigate traffic and road conditions safely.
Car Drivers Failing To See Motorcyclists
Many accidents occur when car drivers fail to spot motorcycles, particularly at intersections. This can result in cars pulling out in front of bikes or turning into their path. To reduce this risk, we can make ourselves more visible by wearing bright clothing and using headlights, even during the day. Additionally, positioning ourselves strategically in traffic so that we’re more easily seen by other drivers can be a lifesaver.
Poor Weather Conditions
Weather plays a significant role in motorcycle safety. Rain, snow, or even strong winds can create hazardous conditions for riders. Wet roads reduce traction, increasing the chances of skidding or losing control. Whenever possible, it’s best to avoid riding in severe weather conditions. If riding in poor weather is unavoidable, slowing down and maintaining greater following distances will help us ride more safely.
Call To Action
Motorcycle accidents are preventable, and it’s up to all of us to ride safely and responsibly. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident and are unsure of your legal rights, don’t hesitate to contact a Hackensack motorcycle accident lawyer for help. With over forty years of experience, our team at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. is here to assist you through the legal process and make sure you’re informed every step of the way. We encourage you to stay safe on the roads! Your safety is our utmost importance.