Sadly, many residents in New Jersey are injured each year by people who choose to drive while intoxicated. Often, drivers who commit this egregious act are rarely injured in the crash themselves, but it is far too common for their actions to cause serious injury to other motorists. Motorcycle accidents are particularly upsetting because motorcycles are smaller than cars and their drivers, therefore, are more susceptible to trauma from a vehicle’s impact.
Earlier this month, a 19-year-old driver from Wallington was charged with both vehicular assault and underage drunk driving after her vehicle collided with a motorcycle. Allegedly, officers administered a field sobriety test at the time of the accident, which the woman failed. The driver of the motorcycle was taken to a nearby hospital and treated for severe injuries.
This kind of negligence on the part of the driver often results in devastating and permanent injury, particularly when the victim is operating a motorcycle. Motorcycle accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, but one of the most harmful and upsetting scenarios occurs when motorcyclists fall victim to drunk drivers. When this happens, victims may need to seek legal assistance from an attorney who has a history of successfully litigating personal injury claims.
When these claims prove successful, victims of motorcycle accidents may find that they are entitled to restitution in the form of monetary benefits. Any monetary benefits awarded can help victims manage the financial burden of medical costs, lost pay, pain and suffering and any other documented financial losses. New Jersey victims and their families deserve to know their options if such an incident occurs.
Source: northjersey.com, “Wallington woman, 19, charged with vehicular assault, underage drunk driving”, Stephanie Akin, Aug. 6, 2015