Accidents involving motorcycles can be terrifying. Riders often face more serious injuries compared to those in cars. Once the initial shock passes, many victims are left wondering what to do next.
If you’ve recently been in a motorcycle accident, you probably have a lot of questions. Understanding your rights and what steps to take can feel overwhelming. This is where experienced guidance becomes essential. The motorcycle accident attorneys from Wilshire Law Firm can help victims understand their legal options and handle claims with clarity and care.
Here are five important questions every rider should consider when dealing with a motorcycle accident claim.
1. Who Is Responsible for the Accident?
Determining fault is the first and most important step in any accident claim.
In motorcycle accidents, the other party might be another driver, a company, or even the city if poor road conditions contributed to the crash.
Many times, drivers claim they didn’t see the motorcyclist. But that doesn’t excuse reckless driving. If someone made an illegal turn, ran a red light, or drove distracted, they can be held liable. An investigation, accident report, and witness statements all help prove who is at fault.
2. What Kind of Compensation Can I Receive?
After a crash, victims often face steep medical bills.
You might also lose income from missed work, or suffer from long-term pain or emotional trauma.
Your claim can include various types of compensation. This includes medical expenses, future treatment, loss of income, pain and suffering, and even repair or replacement of your motorcycle. In cases of severe negligence, you might be able to pursue punitive damages too.
3. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
There’s a strict time limit for filing personal injury claims.
The deadline depends on the laws in your state, but in most places, it’s between one and three years from the date of the accident.
If you wait too long, you might lose your chance to file a lawsuit completely. That’s why it’s important to act fast. Start collecting evidence, talking to witnesses, and consulting a lawyer as early as possible. Some situations, like accidents involving government vehicles, may have even shorter deadlines.
4. What If I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
This is a common concern among riders.
Helmet laws vary from state to state, and not wearing one might impact your claim depending on local regulations.
However, not wearing a helmet doesn’t automatically mean you can’t get compensation. The court might reduce the amount you receive, but they will still consider the other driver’s role in the accident. If your injuries would have occurred even with a helmet, that could work in your favor. An attorney can help you build your case with the right evidence and expert testimony.
5. Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Claim?
Technically, you can file a claim on your own. But should you?
Insurance companies often offer low settlements to save money, hoping victims won’t know any better.
A skilled motorcycle accident lawyer for injured motorcyclists can fight for your full compensation. They can deal with insurance adjusters, negotiate fair settlements, and take the case to trial if needed. More importantly, they understand how to present your case in a way that gets results. With serious injuries on the line, having legal support is always a smart move.
Conclusion
Motorcycle accidents are often life-changing. They leave behind injuries, bills, and confusion.
Getting clear answers can help you recover and protect your future.
Knowing who is responsible, how much you may be owed, and how long you have to act is key. Whether or not you wore a helmet or think you need a lawyer, don’t make guesses.
Speak to someone who knows the road, the risks, and the law. Understanding these five questions is the first step. The next step is getting help from people who fight for riders every day.
