If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident, you already know how quickly your life can change. After the initial shock, you’re likely left with more questions than answers, especially when filing an insurance claim. Unfortunately, motorcyclists often face unique challenges that can make an already difficult recovery process even harder.
The good news? You don’t have to tackle this alone. By understanding how the insurance claims process works and the issues that bikers often face, you can take steps to protect your rights and maximize your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
The Challenges Motorcyclists Face in Insurance Claims
Unlike car accidents, motorcycle accidents come with unique hurdles—both on the road and in the insurance world. Knowing these challenges upfront can help you prepare.
1. Bias Against Motorcyclists
One of the toughest issues injured bikers face is dealing with bias. Whether we like it or not, some insurance adjusters, and even juries, may have preconceived notions about motorcyclists. They might see biking as "risky" and unfairly place blame on the biker, regardless of the actual facts of the accident.
This bias can lead to lower initial settlement offers, or in some cases, outright claim denials. But here’s the reality—it doesn’t matter if you were riding a motorcycle or a minivan. You deserve fair compensation if someone else was negligent and caused your injuries.
2. Serious Injuries Mean Higher Stakes
Motorcyclists are far more likely to suffer severe injuries in an accident. Without the protection of a car's metal frame, you’re more vulnerable to broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and more.
While these injuries mean you’re entitled to compensation for significant medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, they also make your case more complex. Insurance companies might fight harder to minimize your payout because the stakes—and the dollars—are higher.
3. Navigating Complex Policies
Motorcycle insurance policies often fall under slightly different rules than auto policies. From uninsured motorist coverage to medical payments coverage, it can be hard to figure out what your policy does and doesn’t cover, especially when you’re nursing injuries. Plus, the at-fault driver’s policy limits may not provide enough compensation, requiring you to look into other options.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
You deserve to focus on healing after your accident, but taking the right steps early on can make a huge difference in your claim. Here’s where to start:
1. Get Medical Attention
After a motorcycle accident, your safety and health are the priority. Even if you think you’re "fine," get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, don’t show symptoms immediately. Plus, medical records are key evidence when filing an insurance claim.
2. Document Everything
Evidence is critical in any insurance claim, and that’s especially true for motorcyclists dealing with bias. Here are some key pieces to gather:
- Photos: Take pictures of your injuries, your damaged bike, and the accident scene from multiple angles.
- Witness Information: Get contact details for anyone who saw the accident. Their statements can help back up your claim.
- Police Reports: Request a copy of the officer’s report, which often includes crucial details about fault and the events leading up to the crash.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company
It’s important to report the accident to your insurance company promptly, but keep your statements brief and factual. Avoid speculating about fault or the severity of your injuries. Anything you say could be used to minimize your claim later.
4. Don’t Rush to Settle
It’s common for insurance adjusters to offer a quick settlement—especially for motorcycle claims. But initial offers often don’t cover the full extent of your losses. Before you accept, consider whether the settlement covers:
- Current and future medical bills
- Lost wages or a reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disabilities or disfigurement
If it doesn’t, don’t be afraid to push for more.
5. Be Strategic About Fault
Fault plays a big role in the outcome of your claim. If you’re partially at fault, your compensation could be reduced in proportion to your responsibility. For instance, if you’re found 20% at fault, your compensation might be reduced by 20%.
That’s why it’s important to gather strong evidence supporting your side of the story. An attorney can help identify gaps in the other driver’s account, reconstruct the accident, and showcase how their negligence caused your injuries.
6. Get Legal Help Early
Insurance companies deal with claims every day, and their adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line—not your well-being. Having a lawyer in your corner evens the playing field. They can handle negotiations, prevent insurance companies from taking advantage of you, and fight for the full compensation you’re entitled to.
How to Maximize Your Compensation
Once you’ve filed your claim, there are a few additional steps you can take to strengthen your case and maximize your compensation:
- Stay Off Social Media: Insurance companies often check social media to look for evidence that contradicts your injuries. Even a smiling photo can hurt your credibility.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Orders: Consistency is key. Attend your medical appointments and follow your treatment plan.
- Track Your Expenses: Keep all bills, receipts, and proof of lost income so you can clearly demonstrate the financial impact of the accident.
Why Legal Representation Makes a Difference
Motorcycle accident claims are often more complex than they seem, and injured bikers face unique challenges that deserve special attention. Having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference. They can help you:
- Navigate complex insurance policies
- Counteract bias from adjusters and juries
- Collect critical evidence and build a strong case
- Negotiate for a settlement that reflects the true cost of your injuries
Most importantly, a lawyer takes the burden of fighting with insurance companies off your shoulders, so you can focus on what matters most—healing.
Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in El Segundo, CA, Greene Broillet & Wheeler, LLP is here to help. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to providing the support and legal expertise you need to navigate the complexities of insurance claims and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (866) 634-4525 to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you in your recovery journey.