Motorcycle accidents are increasingly common in New Jersey, making it essential for riders to prioritize safety. This involves understanding local laws, improving riding skills, staying vigilant, and recognizing the most significant risks. Additionally, certain types of motorcycles are more prone to accidents. This article explores which motorcycles have the highest accident rates and how you can enhance your safety on the road.
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The Most Dangerous Motorcycles
Not all motorcycles are created equal. Just as some cars are more dangerous than others, the same holds true of motorcycles. These motorcycles tend to be involved in more accidents:
- Cruisers: Cruisers comprise approximately 50% of motorcycles on the road, accounting for a significant portion of accidents. Riders often wear less protective gear to maintain a ‘cool’ image, increasing injury risks.
- Street Bikes: Street bikes are favored for their speed and agility, making them popular for tricks and high-speed riding. This increases their accident rate, as riders frequently engage in risky behaviors.
- MX/Enduro Motorcycles: Designed for off-road use, MX/Enduro motorcycles face unique risks from natural obstacles like trees and branches. While this reduces the risk of traffic collisions, the challenging terrain often leads to severe accidents.
- Supersport Bikes: Supersport bikes are street legal racing bikes built for high speeds and agility, often resulting in aggressive riding and catastrophic accidents. Speeding is the most common cause of supersport bike accidents.
While owning these types of motorcycles does not necessarily guarantee that you will be in an accident, it does necessitate extra precautions.
Things to Do: Enhancing Your Safety
To mitigate risks, here are actionable steps you can take:
Wear Protective Gear
Always wear a DOT-approved helmet, gloves, and protective clothing. Make sure your gear is high-quality and fits properly to provide maximum protection.
Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
Enroll in advanced riding courses to sharpen your skills. Continuous learning helps you handle emergency situations more effectively.
Regular Maintenance
Perform regular maintenance checks on your motorcycle. Focus on critical areas like brakes, tires, and lights to ensure your bike is in optimal condition.
Stay Visible
Wear bright or reflective clothing to enhance visibility. Always use your headlights, even during the day, to stay visible to other drivers.
Follow Traffic Laws
Adhere to speed limits and traffic signals. Avoid aggressive riding and consistently signal your intentions to other road users.
Stay Sober
Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired judgment drastically increases the risk of accidents.
Ride Defensively
Anticipate the actions of other drivers and always have an escape route. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid potential collisions.
Understanding New Jersey Motorcycle Laws
Familiarize yourself with New Jersey’s motorcycle laws to ensure compliance and safety:
- Riders must have a motorcycle driver’s license for motorcycles or trikes.
- Completion of a basic rider course with an approved provider is required.
- A motorcycle endorsem*nt requires riders to be at least 17 years old and pass all necessary tests.
- All motorcycles must be registered with the state.
In some cases, riders may be able to apply for a motorcycle license without already having a driver’s license or by forgoing the rider course. However, they would still need to pass the road test.
Read more: Important Safety Tips for Bikers
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and property damage. Act quickly, as there is a statute of limitations for filing a claim. Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to explore your options.
Contact The Law Offices of Andrew S. Prince to Discuss Your New Jersey Motorcycle Accident
Sustaining serious injuries from a motorcycle accident in New Jersey can be overwhelming. Medical bills can accumulate while waiting for the responsible party or their insurance to act. You need a dedicated personal injury attorney fighting for the compensation you deserve.
The Law Offices of Andrew S. Prince represent clients injured in motorcycle accidents across New Jersey, including Jersey City, Elizabeth, Trenton, and Passaic. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our offices are conveniently located at 136 Central Avenue, Clark, NJ 07066, and West New York, NY.
The articles on this blog are for informational purposes only and do not substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. For legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
