Motorcycle accidents are more or less different than car accidents. If you fail to understand the differences, you’d have a tough time getting the compensation. That’s why you should hire a motorcycle accident attorney to handle cases involving motorcycles.
In this article, learn what your options are when you do get involved in a motorbike accident. Along with that, some tips to accelerate the insurance claim process.
Is Motorcycle Accident Different from Car Accident?
Motorbikes tend to be smaller and lighter than cars. Moreover, the rider lacks the protection of the car chassis.
If the driver at fault is the car or truck driver, then insurance companies are likely to fight for that claim aggressively. As a motorcyclist, you may claim a higher amount than in other types of accidents.
There’s a chance of bias among the jurors against the motorcyclist. So they’ll try to pay less than what you may claim. Therefore, you need to hire an experienced attorney to handle your case.
Types of Compensation Available
There are different types of compensation you can file if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident. It’s essential to file compensation referring to the right type. Here are some of your options:
- Pain and Suffering
In a motorcycle accident, you’re more likely to sustain injuries, both major and minor. In such cases, you’re liable to get appropriately compensated for your suffering.
But “suffering” is not an easy concept to grasp in legal terms. There are other things like negligence and standard of care taken into consideration. Simply put, if the jury finds out you were negligent in your driving approach, then you’d be asked to pay compensation to the other drivers who may not have sustained any injury.
The insurance carriers will also find the at-fault driver because of whom the accident took place. To navigate this complex maze, you must work with a motorcycle accident attorney.
- Lost Wages and Profits
Injuries sustained in a bike accident will likely leave you unable to work for a few days, weeks, or months. Permanent injuries are even worse.
You can seek compensation for the days you’ve missed work and the wages you had to lose because of it. For this, you’d have to talk to your employer and arrange a few things like policies, leave applications, among other documents. Then, please submit them to the carriers for review.
If you’re self-employed and run a business, you can seek compensation for the loss you incurred.
- Medical Expenses
You’re also likely to incur medical bills when involved in an accident. If you need ongoing medical treatment, you can seek compensation for it from the at-fault driver’s carrier.
There are other types of compensation options as well, as the compensation for emotional distress. Work with a lawyer to figure out the right approach.
How to Hire the Best Lawyer to Work With?
To find the right lawyer, you need to look at a few things, such as:
- Experience
- Expertise
- Disciplinary record
- Location
- Online reputation
- Fees
Based on these factors, you should be able to find the lawyer of your choice.
It’s recommended to work with a local motorcycle accident attorney who understands the state and local laws regarding bike accidents. With the right attorney, you will have peace of mind and ensure you’ll get your rightful compensation.
I live in a small Georgia town that you most likely have never heard of and I LOVE it! My house is more than full as I am a single mother of four & caregiver to my aging mother and uncle. Lover of all things Outlander. Goes to the beat of her own drum woman.