As a motorcyclist, you face unique risks on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, riders are nearly 29 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a crash per mile traveled [1]. Beyond the physical harm, collisions can lead to serious financial burdens, from mounting medical bills to lost wages. In fact, motorcycle accidents incurred an estimated $12 billion in economic costs in 2019 alone [1]. After a collision, a motorcycle accident lawyer can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
A lawyer specializing in motorcycle crash cases understands the complexities of insurance negotiations, fault disputes, and legal procedures, maximizing your chance of a fair outcome. This article explains how to assert your rights after a crash, what damages you can recover, and why prompt legal representation matters.
Understand your rights
Following a motorcycle crash, you’re entitled to seek compensation for losses stemming from another party’s negligence. Your legal rights include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering
- Property damage, including repair or replacement of your bike
- Rehabilitation and long-term care costs
Motorcycle riders have the same rights and protections under the law as any other driver or vehicle on the road. They are not presumed to have acted negligently simply because they were on a motorcycle [2].
Hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer
Acting quickly after a crash can make a significant difference in preserving evidence and meeting critical deadlines. A specialist can guide you through each step, from demand letters to trial, and help you avoid common pitfalls.
Key qualities to look for in your legal team:
- Specialized experience handling motorcycle collision claims [3]
- Proven track record of favorable settlements and verdicts
- Access to resources such as accident reconstruction experts and medical specialists
- Clear communication and transparency regarding fees and case status
Prompt legal action also helps ensure compliance with statutes of limitations and secures crucial evidence such as witness statements and scene photographs [4].
Address insurance claim complexities
Insurance companies often look for reasons to reduce payouts. You may encounter:
- Disputes over preexisting conditions
- Arguments about comparative fault or shared liability
- Policy limits and coverage exclusions
- Bias against motorcyclists that undervalues your injuries [1]
If your crash involved a rideshare vehicle, a rideshare accident lawyer can address the extra layer of insurer rules. For collisions with commercial carriers, turn to our commercial vehicle accident attorney.
Determine fault and liability
Establishing who caused the crash is essential for recovering compensation. Common scenarios include:
| Accident scenario | Cause | Likely liability |
|---|---|---|
| Left-turn collision | Failing to yield to the motorcyclist | Turning driver [5] |
| Lane change crash | Not checking blind spots | Vehicle changing lanes |
| Dooring accident | Opening a car door into the rider’s path | Driver or passenger |
| Distracted driving | Handheld phone use while driving | Distracted driver |
A motorcycle crash attorney will gather police reports, witness statements, and expert analyses to build a compelling case demonstrating negligence.
Calculate recoverable damages
Your total compensation may include:
| Damage category | Description |
|---|---|
| Economic damages | Medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation costs |
| Non-economic damages | Pain and suffering, emotional distress |
| Property damage | Repair or replacement of the motorcycle |
In some states, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage can pay up to $10,000 toward medical bills and wage loss regardless of fault, for example in Florida [6]. Optional Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage may fill gaps beyond PIP limits.
Prepare your case
Gather key evidence
Collecting comprehensive documentation strengthens your claim:
- Official accident reports and clear scene photographs
- Detailed medical records and billing statements
- Witness names, contact information, and statements
- Documentation of road or vehicle defects
- Expert witness opinions and reconstruction data
Understand filing deadlines
Missing your state’s statute of limitations can bar your claim. Typical deadlines include:
- Georgia: two years from the crash date [7]
- Minnesota: six-year limit to file a lawsuit [8]
- Other states may have shorter or longer timeframes
Select the right attorney
Interview potential lawyers to ensure a good fit and capable representation. Key questions include:
- How many motorcycle accident cases have you handled?
- What is your success rate in settlements and verdicts?
- Do you have access to expert witnesses and accident reconstruction specialists?
- How often and by what means will you communicate case updates?
- What fee structure and costs can I expect?
- Can you share testimonials or client references?
Reading online reviews and testimonials can also reveal a lawyer’s reputation among past clients and within the legal community [3]. For other crash types, see our auto accident attorney and pedestrian accident lawyer pages.
Take next steps
Don’t let delays undermine your claim. Reach out today for a free consultation to review your case specifics. The sooner you connect with a qualified motorcycle crash attorney, the stronger your position will be when demanding fair compensation. You deserve the support necessary for lasting recovery and peace of mind.
