Motorcycles have become the hype in most New Jersey roads. They are not only fun and exciting to ride but in terms of functionality, they are more suited for today’s traffic clogged roads. The New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety, for example, reported a 17% increase in motorcycle registration in 2011-2012.
However, the current statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) among other safety bodies indicates a surge in motorcycle accident in New Jersey. MSF reports that motorbike riders are 35 times more likely to get involved in accidents than car drivers.
Over 2,500 motorcycle accidents occur daily on Jersey roads according to MSF which is a worrying trend. If you have been in one of these accidents, you understand how frustrating it can be to try and get justice. A New Jersey accident lawyer comes in handy with legal expertise to get you off the hook or even get you compensation. The vexing question however comes in hiring the best accident lawyer. Here are simple guidelines who to hire;
- Fully licensed and registered legal service; never risk working with a quack in New Jersey. There are many upstarts without even the American Bar Association (ABA) registration leave alone the New Jersey State Bar recognition. As such, ensure your motorcycle accidents attorney has the prerequisite documentation in order to ensure that your compensation suit stands the test of time.
- Professional affiliation; ensure that the attorney you hire is affiliated to other professional and legal associations within the state. This is a pointer to their professional conduct and also reputation. A motorcycle accident in New Jersey should for example be a member of the New Jersey State bar, Camden County Bar Association, American Association for Justice, New Jersey Association for Justice among others.
- Expertise; look out for a motorcycle accident attorney with a large portfolio of clients. In essence, you should pick a lawyer who has won many cases of this sort to increase the chances of winning. It is important to work with an attorney who has years of experience in New Jersey court circuit because traffic laws are ever changing.
- Reputation; look for law firm reviews, testimonials and referrals from different clients who have used these lawyer services. This will help you understand their level of professionalism and quality of services. A good reputation among clients and peers will help determine the reliability of a motorcycle accident lawyer.
Other factors to consider include efficient customer service levels, dedicated service for your case, no fee guarantees, and recognition through awards in the New Jersey legal circles. In essence, getting good legal service is all about research and hence, you should never take chances as the fines could be hefty.
Motorcycle accidents can lead to jail term, hefty fines and even suspension of licenses.
