Riders know the freedom of the open road, and they also know the risks. Without a steel frame or airbags, motorcyclists are far more likely to be seriously hurt in a collision. If you were injured in a crash caused by another driver, a motorcycle accident lawyer can help you push back against unfair assumptions and pursue the compensation you need to recover.
The Bias Riders Often Face
One of the biggest challenges in motorcycle claims is stereotyping. Insurance adjusters, and sometimes jurors, may assume a rider was speeding or being reckless, even when the evidence says otherwise. In reality, many motorcycle crashes happen because drivers fail to see the bike, such as when a car turns left in front of an oncoming rider or changes lanes without checking a blind spot.
An attorney who regularly represents riders understands this bias and knows how to counter it with facts: crash reconstruction, witness accounts, video footage, and physical evidence from the scene.
Injuries and Losses in Motorcycle Claims
Motorcycle crashes frequently cause injuries that require long recovery periods, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and joint damage
- Road rash and skin grafts
- Amputations
These injuries may lead to ongoing medical care, physical therapy, and time away from work. A strong claim accounts for future costs, not just the bills already in hand, along with pain and suffering and damage to your bike and gear.
Does Wearing a Helmet Affect My Case?
Helmet laws vary from state to state. In some places, insurers may argue that not wearing a helmet made a head injury worse, which could affect the amount recovered. That does not necessarily prevent you from bringing a claim, especially for injuries unrelated to the head. A motorcycle accident lawyer can explain how your state’s rules apply.
What to Do After a Crash
If you are able, take these steps to protect your health and your claim:
- Get medical attention right away, even for injuries that seem minor
- Call the police and request a copy of the report
- Photograph the scene, your bike, and your injuries
- Keep your damaged helmet and gear as evidence
- Avoid posting about the crash on social media
Most attorneys handle these cases on contingency, often in the range of 33 to 40 percent, though terms vary. This article is general information, not legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still recover if I was partly at fault?
In many states, yes, though your compensation may be reduced by your share of fault. Rules differ by state.
What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?
You may be able to claim through your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, if you have it.
How much does it cost to hire a lawyer?
Most charge nothing upfront and are paid a percentage of any recovery.