Cherry Hill Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle riders in Cherry Hill face serious risks every time they take to the road. Compared with passenger car occupants, motorcyclists are far more vulnerable in a collision. With less protection, motorcyclists face a much greater likelihood of severe injury or death. When a motorcycle accident is caused by another driver’s negligence, victims deserve skilled legal representation to pursue the full compensation they are owed.

At the Law Offices of David J. Karbasian, PC, we represent injured motorcyclists and their families throughout Cherry Hill and Camden County. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a motorcycle crash, contact our office for a consultation.

Key Takeaways

Motorcycle riders in Cherry Hill face heightened danger on Route 70, Route 38, I-295, and near high-traffic commercial areas.
Most motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence of other drivers, not the rider.
New Jersey requires all riders and passengers to wear a DOT-approved helmet.
Injured motorcyclists can recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
An experienced Cherry Hill motorcycle accident lawyer can handle insurer negotiations and build a strong claim on your behalf.

Dangerous Roads in Cherry Hill

Certain roads and intersections in Cherry Hill are particularly hazardous for motorcycle riders. Route 70 is one of the most heavily traveled corridors in the area and has been the scene of numerous crashes, including fatal motorcycle accidents near intersections such as Springdale Road, Brace Road, and the Route 70/Route 41 interchange. Route 38 is another high-risk stretch, with a documented history of crashes at points such as Longwood Avenue and Haddonfield Road. The I-295 corridor through Cherry Hill adds to the danger, as high speeds, heavy truck traffic, and frequent lane changes create hazardous conditions for riders. Areas near Cherry Hill Mall and Kings Highway also see elevated crash frequency as a result of heavy congestion and turning vehicle conflicts.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Most motorcycle crashes are caused by the negligence of other drivers. Common causes include:

Drivers failing to yield the right of way, especially at intersections
Left-turn collisions, where a vehicle turns directly into the path of an oncoming motorcyclist
Distracted driving, including phone use and inattention at intersections
Unsafe lane changes by drivers who fail to check mirrors or blind spots
Speeding, tailgating, and aggressive driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Road hazards such as potholes, uneven pavement, and debris

Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles, riders are disproportionately at risk in many of these scenarios. New Jersey law allows injured motorcyclists to seek compensation when another party’s negligence caused the crash.

What Are New Jersey’s Motorcycle Helmet Laws?

New Jersey law requires all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear a helmet at all times. The helmet must be approved by the United States Department of Transportation (DOT). You can look for the DOT symbol on the outside back of the helmet to confirm compliance. Approved helmets must allow adequate side visibility and include a chin or neck strap. Riders are also required to wear approved goggles or a face shield unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen.

Failing to wear a helmet in New Jersey is a violation of state law and can affect a personal injury claim. If a rider was not wearing a helmet at the time of a crash, the defense may argue that the rider’s injuries were worsened by that choice. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help address comparative fault arguments and pursue the maximum available compensation regardless of helmet use.

Compensation in a Motorcycle Accident Case

Injured motorcyclists may be entitled to recover damages for:

Medical expenses, including emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, and rehabilitation
Lost income and reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Property damage to the motorcycle and gear
Emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life
Wrongful death damages when a crash is fatal

Settlement value in a motorcycle accident case depends on factors including the severity of the injuries, the clarity of fault, the insurance coverage available, and the quality of documentation gathered after the crash.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents

Q: How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in New Jersey?

A: New Jersey’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline typically bars you from recovering compensation. Contact an attorney as soon as possible after a crash to protect your rights.

Q: What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident in Cherry Hill?

A: Call 911, get medical attention even if injuries seem minor, photograph the scene and your injuries, collect the other driver’s insurance information, and avoid making statements about fault. Contact a motorcycle accident attorney before speaking with insurance adjusters.

Q: Can I recover compensation if I was not wearing a helmet?

A: Possibly. New Jersey follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means you can still recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. However, not wearing a helmet may reduce your recovery if the defense argues it worsened your injuries. An attorney can help you navigate this issue.

Q: What if the other driver’s insurance denies my claim?

A: Insurance companies frequently dispute motorcycle accident claims or offer settlements far below the actual value of the case. An attorney can gather evidence, obtain expert opinions, negotiate aggressively on your behalf, and take the case to trial if necessary.

Q: How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?

A: Most motorcycle accident attorneys, including our firm, handle these cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay no upfront fees. The attorney’s fee comes only from a settlement or verdict, so there is no financial risk in seeking legal representation.