You were riding your motorcycle through Toms River, New Jersey when another driver hit you. Now you face medical bills, lost wages and a damaged bike. You know the driver caused the crash, but that driver may not be the only person you can hold responsible. Because New Jersey’s No-Fault system does not cover motorcyclists, identifying every liable party becomes critical to covering your costs.
Why motorcyclists must pursue liable parties directly
Under N.J.S.A. 39:6A-2, motorcycles do not meet the statutory definition of an “automobile,” which means the state’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) system does not apply to riders. Your motorcycle insurance does not pay your medical bills. You must rely on the at-fault driver’s liability insurance or pursue other responsible parties.
As of January 1, 2026, New Jersey increased minimum liability coverage to $35,000 per person and $70,000 per accident. If the driver’s policy limits are too low, you may need to identify additional liable parties. Apart from the at-fault driver, other parties may also be liable.
Vehicle owners who are not the driver
If the driver who hit you was operating someone else’s vehicle, you may be able to sue the vehicle owner. New Jersey holds vehicle owners liable for accidents caused by drivers they permit to use their vehicles.
Employers in commercial vehicle accidents
If a work vehicle hit you, the driver’s employer may also be responsible. In New Jersey, an employer can be liable if an employee causes a crash while doing their job. This may include:
- Delivery companies
- Trucking companies
- Contractors whose employees were driving a company vehicle carelessly
Employers often have larger insurance policies than individual drivers. Many carry $1 million or more in coverage, compared to the $35,000 minimum for most drivers. A claim against the employer can help you recover more of your losses.
Manufacturers and repair shops
If a defective part or improper repair contributed to the crash, you may have a claim against the manufacturer or repair shop. Brake failures, tire blowouts and steering malfunctions can all make manufacturers or repair shops liable for your injuries.
Why legal guidance matters
With multiple potential defendants, determining who is at fault is not always straightforward. Insurance companies may try to blame someone else to pay less. A Toms River motorcycle accident attorney can investigate the crash, find everyone who may be responsible and pursue all available compensation. Because motorcyclists do not have PIP, it is important to act quickly before key evidence is lost.