Motorcycle accidents usually have dire consequences. Because the driver is not as well protected as they would be in a car or truck, the injuries can be much more serious. The driver also has to keep watch for other vehicles that are not paying attention to their surroundings. Since there are so many factors involved, there are many other legal ramifications when an accident happens that go beyond the simple property damage issue.
The bike owner is often hit twice. First, the crash itself is likely to cause serious injuries and devastating property damage. The second hit revolves around trying to file a claim with the insurance company. The fact that the payouts may be ongoing and much higher means any company is going to spend more time investigating the circumstances of the crash, thus delaying any payouts.
Claims often are left unpaid or settled for much less. The insurance company has a lot more liability for these types of crashes. This causes them to take longer to assess the situation to look for ways to reduce the payment or deny it altogether. Unfortunately, this leaves the injured party struggling to pay bills when his or her income has been impacted by a lengthy hospital stay.
There are often special laws that deal with motorcycles and accidents that involve them. The reason is that they are such a different type of vehicle. Some states require helmets, while others do not. Since the laws vary widely from state to state, the insurance process can as well. This puts those involved in a crash in a difficult position as they try to navigate the process.
The extent of the accident plays heavily on the process. Often these types of crashes cause permanent injury or death. Since this can eliminate part of the family income, the insurance company may find themselves in a situation where they will be forced to provide a lifetime of compensation. This is part of the reason they are reluctant to process the claims and look for ways to reduce the payout through a lower settlement number.
The bike itself is often totaled. Unfortunately, this may be the easiest part of the claims process. The insurance carrier can easily figure the value of the bike and make the payment. They may be inclined to wrap this into a total settlement package to avoid paying higher medical claims.
The right attorney can help maneuver through the claims process. Finding the right one may not be so easy. It is important to be sure the lawyer is sympathetic to the plight of an injured rider. Many who are not familiar with the joy and excitement of owning a motorbike may be inclined to blame the rider and be willing to accept a lower settlement.
Motorcycle accidents are devastating, but the claims process should not be. The legal ramifications of not wearing a helmet when required can severely reduce claims. The legal system sees these as different types of vehicles and often has a separate set of laws to deal with them.
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