Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries for those involved. In general, a person can recover compensation for any accident caused by the actions of another driver on the roadway. However, motorcycle accidents are not always cut and dry. There are various factors that go into motorcycle accident claims that differentiate them from traditional car accident cases. Here, we want to discuss these differences and talk about how an injured motorcyclist can recover full compensation for their losses.
The Likelihood of Severe Injuries and Higher Claim Amounts
Even though motorcycle accidents do not make up a significant percentage of the total traffic collisions across West Virginia each year, the reality is that these incidents are much more likely to result in significant injuries for those involved. Motorcyclists are more exposed than those inside traditional passenger vehicles. When a motorcycle crash occurs, those on the back of the bike are likely to sustain an impact with the vehicle and an impact with the ground.
Motorcyclists are more likely to sustain life-threatening injuries in the event a collision occurs, which is a major difference between motorcycle accident claims and car accident claims. Due to the severity of the injuries, it is not uncommon for insurance carriers to push back harder against having to pay out compensation. Even though this may not seem fair, this is often the reality.
Unwarranted Biases Against the Motorcyclist
Motorcyclists face additional challenges when it comes to securing compensation after an accident caused by another driver. Unfortunately, the general public and insurance carriers tend to think that motorcyclists are more reckless on the roadway than other drivers. Even though this is not the truth, this is an unwarranted bias that has to be dealt with.
But how can this affect a claim?
When an insurance carrier and their claims adjusters think that a person is responsible for causing an accident, they are going to do anything they can to limit how much money they payout in a settlement. Even if it is relatively clear that the motorcyclist did not cause the accident, just the thought that the motorcyclist was operating recklessly can derail a claim.
Working With an Attorney
Perhaps even more so than traditional vehicle accidents, it is crucial for a motorcycle accident victim in West Virginia to work with an experienced Martinsburg motorcycle accident attorney. On the surface, a motorcycle accident claim may seem straightforward and just like any other type of vehicle accident claim. However, these cases can quickly turn against the motorcyclist, regardless of which party was at fault for the incident.
When an accident lawyer gets involved, they will be able to handle every aspect of the claim. They will start by gathering all the evidence needed to prove liability. The goal will be to show exactly what happened and put together an irrefutable case that can cut through the unwarranted biases held by other parties involved.
An attorney will have the resources necessary to vigorously negotiate with the insurance carriers and other legal teams if necessary. An attorney will also fully prepare to take a motorcycle accident claim all the way to trial if necessary to ensure their client is treated fairly.
