Monmouth County New Jersey Motor Vehicle Accidents Law Blog

When you're driving friends or family in your car, and you notice that they're not using a seatbelt, politely ask them to please "buckle up." If you do so, and they comply, you might just save a life. If you do so, and they don't comply, at least you know that you did your best to help prevent a catastrophic injury or death in your vehicle.

If you're having trouble convincing your passengers why it's so important to use a safety belt, the following information could help you convince them:

Immediately after your car accident on the New Jersey highway, you may feel shaken up and disoriented. However, you are able to get out of your car, exchange information with the other driver and give your account of the event to the police officer who comes to make a report. We at Escandon, Fernicola, Anderson & Covelli, LLP, often advise people who have been in a collision to seek medical attention as their next step.

The American Association of Neurological Surgeons warns that even though a bump on the head may not seem significant at the moment, it could later lead to permanent brain damage.

Allenhurst motorcycle riders should always think safety, and one important component to preserving your life while riding your bike on a New Jersey highway is finding the right motorcycle helmet. But how can you be sure your helmet will provide the proper protection and not hamper your performance on your bike? Jalopnik.com suggests a few ways to evaluate a helmet when you seek to buy one.

First, do not purchase a motorcycle helmet right away. The best helmet is the one that provides the best fit. Any other consideration is secondary. A helmet that is too loose will spin around on your head and block your vision, and a tight helmet will not let you turn your head when you need to. It is a good idea to shop for a helmet at a physical retail outlet so you can try on the helmet first. The helmet should feel firm on your head but not apply too much pressure. Helmets should also not possess gaps between the cyclist’s head and the interior of the helmet unless they exist for the cyclist’s ears.

You have dreamt of getting a motorcycle for quite some time now and have recently made your first purchase. Aside from your bike looking sleek and providing promising adventure, you are excited to begin learning about how your motorcycle functions and what kind of power it has. At Escandon, Fernicola, Anderson & Covelli, we are familiar with the potential risks and hazards faced by motorcyclists in New Jersey.

As with anytime you are driving a vehicle on the road, you are subject to the risks associated with operating your motorcycle. Perhaps you have acknowledged this by already investing in proper riding clothing and gear, but what if you are faced with a sudden hazard that puts you in harm's way and threatens an accident? According to rideapart.com, many motorcycle accidents fall into one of several categories of common crashes. Here are some of the accidents you should be aware of and how you can potentially avoid them:

• You take a corner too quickly: Do your best to avoid leaning your bike, and never panic by fidgeting with the throttle or slamming on the brakes. These behaviors may cause your bike to lose traction and crash.
• A car rear-ends you: Whenever you have to stop at a traffic light, be aware to stop behind another car if possible. This will give you a designated "crumple space" if you are hit, instead of your body flying onto the open road. 
• A car turns left in front of you: Contrary to what many believe you should do in this situation, you should never try to lay your bike down. The most effective way to protect yourself is to reduce your speed as much as possible by using your brakes and keeping your motorcycle in an upright position with both hands on the handlebars.