The holidays bring an increase in traffic and visitors to the east coast. This can add to the already busy roads, with the addition of drivers who may also not know local laws. This can pose a unique risk to motorcyclists.

What are the Motorcycle Laws in New Jersey?

Before enjoying a motorcycle ride this holiday, it’s always a good idea to brush up on motorcycle laws in the area. Here are just a few of New Jersey’s motorcycle laws:

• All riders under the age of 21 must practice riding for a minimum of six months before receiving a motorcyclist permit. Riders over the age of 21 years must practice for a minimum of three months.
• Must have a motorcycle endorsement: To legally ride in New Jersey, all motorcyclists must have an endorsement on their driver’s license.
• Motorcycles must be registered. While registration no longer requires an inspection, law officers are permitted to random inspections.
• Helmet use is required. New Jersey law does require all motorcyclists wear a helmet when riding. The helmet must also meet U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements.

These are just a few of the laws unique to New Jersey when it comes to riding a motorcycle in the state. Understanding these laws is important not only in preventing a ticket but also to stay safe.

Safety Tips for Holiday Riding

If you plan to ride your motorcycle well into the holiday and winter season, here are a few safety tips to follow:

1. Do a Motorcycle Check Before Riding

Many motorcyclists check their bikes before riding in the spring. Because winter brings with it harsher conditions and more traffic, it’s also a good idea to do another motorcycle check at the beginning of winter. This includes checking the motorcycle’s tires, treading, rims, controls, cables, lights, turn signals, headlights, tail and brake lights, horn, chain, mirrors, and gas and oil. This may also be a good time to drop your motorcycle off for a routine inspection.

2. Practice Defensive Driving

Motorcyclists are at a greater risk of injuries if they’re in an accident. If you’re involved in an accident, you’re likely to experience worse injuries than the other drivers. For this reason, it’s important to practice defensive driving. Stay aware, avoid distractions, and familiarize yourself with how to maneuver out of the way when necessary.

3. Know When to Skip the Motorcycle

Some days may not be ideal for motorcycling. Check the weather before leaving and be sure that you have other transportation when needed. Winter in New Jersey can be harsh and large amounts of snowfall or ice can make the roads even more dangerous. It’s best to skip the roads when the weather is likely to be inclement.

4. Know How to Handle an Accident

If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s also important that you know what to do to protect your legal rights. Of course, receiving medical treatment is a priority. From here, notify the local police and your insurance company. Depending on the severity of the motorcycle accident, you may also want to notify a New Jersey motorcycle accident lawyer.

Contact a Newark Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Motorcycle Accident Case in New Jersey

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. Attorney Andrew Prince Esq. represents clients injured because of a motorcycle accident in Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, and throughout New Jersey. Call (908) 304-9187 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 136 Central Avenue, Clark, New Jersey 07066, as well as an office in West New York, NY.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.