Woodbridge Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Fighting For Motorcycle Accident Victims in New Jersey

If you or someone you love has suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident, it is important to take rapid action to learn about the full range of your legal options. At Palmisano & Goodman, P.A., we have more than 100+ combined years of experience in practice, and we have earned a reputation for our achievement and client service in serious accident claims. We back up our reputation in court with a solid record of results – we've taken more than 500 cases to trial. Throughout the time we have been in practice, we have won hundreds of millions for our clients.

Contact a proven Woodbridge motorcycle injury attorney for a free consultation.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can happen in an instant, often because of another driver’s negligence. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers using cell phones, GPS devices, or other distractions frequently fail to notice nearby motorcyclists. Even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to catastrophic crashes.
• Unsafe Lane Changes: Motorcycles are smaller and often fall into drivers’ blind spots. When motorists fail to check mirrors or signal properly, riders can be struck or forced off the road.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of impact. Many fatal motorcycle crashes involve drivers traveling too fast for conditions.
• Left-Turn Collisions: A large number of motorcycle accidents occur when vehicles make left turns in front of oncoming riders at intersections.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug impairment slows reaction time and impairs judgment—making impaired drivers especially dangerous to motorcyclists.
• Hazardous Road Conditions: Loose gravel, uneven pavement, potholes, or poorly maintained roads can cause serious single-vehicle motorcycle crashes, especially when municipalities fail to maintain safe roadways.

If your accident was caused by another person’s carelessness, you have the right to hold them accountable. Our Woodbridge motorcycle accident attorneys can investigate your case, identify all liable parties, and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.

New Jersey Motorcycle Laws

Motorcyclists in New Jersey must follow specific state laws designed to promote safety and reduce crash risks. Understanding these laws can help protect your rights after an accident.

• Helmet Law: All motorcycle operators and passengers must wear an approved helmet under N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.7.
• License Requirements: Riders must have a valid motorcycle license or endorsement to legally operate a motorcycle.
• Insurance Requirements: New Jersey requires all motorcyclists to carry liability insurance.
• Lane Splitting: Lane splitting—riding between lanes of traffic—is prohibited in New Jersey.
• Passenger Rules: Motorcycles must be equipped with a proper seat and footrests if carrying passengers.

Even if you were following every safety regulation, negligent drivers can still cause devastating crashes. Our firm will ensure that your rights are fully protected under New Jersey law.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Because motorcycles offer little physical protection, riders often suffer severe or life-changing injuries in crashes. Some of the most common include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Even with a helmet, head trauma can lead to lasting cognitive and emotional difficulties.
• Spinal Cord Injuries – Damage to the spine can result in partial or total paralysis.
• Broken Bones and Fractures – Arms, legs, and ribs are particularly vulnerable.
• Road Rash and Lacerations – Severe skin abrasions can lead to infection or permanent scarring.
• Internal Injuries – Organ damage and internal bleeding may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening.
• Amputations – In high-impact collisions, limbs may be crushed or severed.

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work. Our Woodbridge motorcycle accident lawyers work closely with medical experts and economists to calculate the full value of your losses.

Compensation for Injured Motorcyclists

If you were injured in a motorcycle crash caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency care, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and future treatment.
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost during recovery and compensation for reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: For physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for your motorcycle and gear.
• Wrongful Death Damages: If a loved one was killed in a motorcycle crash, surviving family members may recover funeral costs, loss of companionship, and financial support.

Our legal team will pursue every available source of recovery—whether through an insurance claim, settlement negotiation, or courtroom litigation.

Motorcycle Accident Claim FAQs

What should I do after a motorcycle accident in Woodbridge, NJ?

Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Then, report the crash to the police, gather contact and insurance information from all parties, take photos of the scene and injuries, and contact a qualified motorcycle accident attorney before speaking with insurers.

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in New Jersey?

Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (per N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2). Failing to act before the deadline may result in losing your right to compensation.

What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time of the crash?

You can still pursue compensation, though not wearing a helmet may affect your damages if it contributed to your injuries. Our attorneys can help you navigate these complex comparative negligence issues.

Do I need a lawyer for a motorcycle accident claim?

Yes. Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto motorcyclists or offer low settlements. Our Woodbridge motorcycle accident attorney can build a strong case, negotiate effectively, and take your case to trial if necessary.

How much does it cost to hire Palmisano & Goodman, P.A.?

We handle motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront fees. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you.

Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Woodbridge Today

Motorcycle accidents present some of the worst injuries, due to the lack of protection you have on a motorcycle. We are well-versed in the complexities of personal injury claims for injured motorcyclists, which means you can depend on us for sound legal advice about the strengths and weaknesses of your case.

When you come to us for legal representation, we can provide you with an accurate assessment of the value of your claims. We can tell the difference between what we can prove and what we can't prove, and we advise our clients accordingly. If we can't obtain what we think your case is worth through negotiation, we'll recommend to you that you take your case to a jury.

Ready to discuss your claim? Contact our Woodbridge motorcycle accident attorneys today!