PENNSYLVANIA & NEW JERSEY MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYERS
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We bring justice to our clients who have suffered at the hands of hospitals, insurance companies and doctors. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll assess your case and advise you of your legal rights.
We Are Committed to Motorcyclists Rights
There are many reasons why people ride motorcycles, such as a stress reliever, more economical than a car or as a hobby. However, as good as the intentions of a rider may be, there is a bias towards motorcyclists. They are perceived as reckless and dangerous, which can affect the outcome of their cases. When you get into a motorcycle accident, make sure you choose an attorney who will fight for your rights.
A motorcycle attorney will treat your case differently than a car accident, since there are many differences between the two:
- Motorcycles do not have the protection of a car or truck.
- A car or truck driver can get easily distracted by the radio or talking on his or her cell phone.
- Cars and trucks have blind spots and are bigger in size.
- Motorcyclists must wear a helmet (in certain states).
At Saffren & Weinberg, our legal team knows the auto insurance laws and motorcycle accident laws. We will help you understand the worth of your case. Our priority is making sure you are taken care of now and in the future.
The statute of limitations to file a motorcycle accident claim is up to two years in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. And, there is no cap on compensatory damages in both states, so you can receive the full amount of damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost and future wages
- Physical disability (temporary and permanent)
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Grief
- Physical rehabilitation
- Property damage (motorcycle)
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
The causes of motorcycle accidents result from both the rider and the other driver. Some of the causes include road hazards, speeding, inexperienced rider or driver, cars making left turns and drunk driving/riding.
Common Motorcycle Injuries
Without the protection of a steel cage or the proper riding gear, motorcyclists’ injuries are far more serious than those from a car accident. The common injuries are:
- Head – concussions, lacerations and traumatic brain injuries. Also includes the neck, where an injury could paralyze the rider.
- Road Rash – when the rider slides across the pavement or concrete, resulting in skin damage. Injuries can lead to infections, nerve damage and skin grafts.
- Muscle Damage – injuries include torn muscles and ligaments and strains.
- Biker’s Arm – when the bike falls on the rider from impact. Nerves in the upper arm are damaged and can lead to paralysis.
- Leg Injury – broken bones and shattered knee caps. Also includes the feet and ankle, where amputations are possible upon impact or damage to the limb.
Wearing a Helmet Does Affect your Claim
In some states, wearing a helmet is required. In New Jersey, riders must wear a helmet. According to the New Jersey Motorcycle Helmet Law, the helmet must have a “neck or chin strap and be reflectorized on both sides.” However, in Pennsylvania, riders do not need to wear a helmet if he or she is over 21, has a motorcycle license for at least two years or has completed a state-approved motorcycle safety course.
Not wearing a helmet could be a deciding factor in your case in a courtroom. A jury could decide that you were negligent because you didn’t wear a helmet at the time of the accident. In New Jersey, this is breaking the law, which contributed to negligence. Also, lawyers for the insurance companies could argue that your head injury would not have been as severe if you were wearing a helmet, affecting the amount of monetary damages.
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PHILADELPHIA’S PREMIER GENERAL PRACTICE LAW FIRM
JENKINTOWN OFFICE
815 Greenwood Avenue
Suite 22
Jenkintown, PA 19046-2800
PHILADELPHIA OFFICE
Two Penn Center Plaza
1500 J.F.K. Blvd., Suite 1030
Philadelphia, PA 19102
NEW JERSEY OFFICE
1874 East Marlton Pike (Rt. 70)
Suite 3
Cherry Hill, NJ 08003