Motorcycle accidents can cause extensive damages, and payouts vary widely. In Oklahoma, to ride legally, you must have motorcycle insurance coverage with minimum limits: $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person, $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more people, and $25,000 for property damage per accident.
However, knowing what factors influence these payouts in case of an accident can help set realistic expectations.
At Hasbrook & Hasbrook, we are ready to fight for you. We can seek compensation for your property damage and severe injuries. Due to the higher likelihood of severe injuries, motorcycle accident settlements are often larger than those for car accidents.
This is due to the greater likelihood of serious injuries and long-term disabilities. Understanding these details is essential if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident. They can help when dealing with insurance companies or legal challenges.
What Makes Motorcycle Accidents So Dangerous?
Motorcycles expose riders to a higher risk of injury than cars, as they lack the protective enclosure that vehicles offer. This exposure means that even a minor collision can result in serious injuries.
Motorcycles are also less visible to other drivers, which increases the chance of accidents. The dynamics of riding a motorcycle require skill and full attention, which, if not adhered to, can lead to dangerous situations.
Moreover, motorcycles are less stable than four-wheeled vehicles, especially in poor road conditions or adverse weather. When motorcycle accidents occur, the lack of stability often leads to more severe outcomes for the rider.
Emergency response times and the immediate medical attention needed also play a major role in the aftermath of such accidents. Thus, the inherent risks associated with motorcycle riding make these accidents particularly perilous.
Factors That Affect the Payout in Motorcycle Accident Claims
- Severity of injuries. The more severe the injuries, the higher the potential settlement, as these conditions often require extensive medical treatment and long-term care.
- Fault and liability. The payout could be higher if another driver’s negligence caused the motorcycle accident. However, the compensation may be reduced if the motorcycle rider is found partially at fault.
- Insurance coverage. The amount of insurance coverage both parties have considerably affected the payout. Limited coverage can lower the potential settlement.
- Legal representation. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can greatly influence the compensation amount. Lawyers can also negotiate more thoroughly with insurance companies.
- Economic losses. This includes lost wages and medical bills. The greater these costs, the higher the settlement will generally be.
- Non-economic damages. Compensation for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and similar losses can notably increase a settlement.
- Precedents and local laws. The outcomes of similar cases and specific local traffic laws can also affect the settlement amount. For example, someone under 18 years of age must always wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle.
What is the Limit of an Insurance Company’s Liability in a Motorcycle Crash?
The liability limit of an insurance company in a motorcycle crash largely depends on the policy’s terms that the parties involved have purchased. These limits set the maximum amount that insurance companies will pay out in the event of a motorcycle accident.
An insurance company’s liability limit in a motorcycle crash typically depends on the coverage policy. Still, standard liability limits range from $25,000 to $100,000 per person for bodily injury and $50,000 to $300,000 per accident for bodily injury.
Liability limits for property damage usually range from $10,000 to $100,000. Higher limits may be available depending on the policy.
Let our team negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. If the damages exceed the policy limits, the victim may need to pursue additional legal actions to cover the remaining costs. This situation can be complex, and knowing where these limits stand before an accident occurs is crucial.
An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can explain how these limits could influence your case and what steps to take if the compensation offered is insufficient.
Will I Need to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit for Fair Compensation?
You might need to file a personal injury lawsuit to obtain fair compensation, especially if the insurance settlement offered does not fully cover your losses.
Lawsuits can be lengthy and require detailed evidence to prove the extent of your damages and the other party’s liability. It’s a decision that should not be taken lightly, as it involves navigating complex legal procedures.
If you decide to go to court, prepare for a detailed examination of the accident, your medical records, and all associated costs. A successful lawsuit can lead to compensation that adequately addresses your needs but requires solid preparation and expert legal representation.
Discussing with a knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer can help determine if this is the best course of action for your situation.
How We Prove Liability in a Motorcycle Accident Case
- Accident reconstruction. Experts recreate the accident scene to show how the incident occurred and who was at fault.
- Witness statements. Testimonies from people who saw the collision can support negligence claims and help establish the sequence of events.
- Review of police reports. These reports contain essential information and initial assessments of fault, which can be pivotal in a motorcycle accident case.
- Analysis of medical records. Detailed reviews of these records can link injuries directly to the accident, proving the extent and impact of the damages.
- Examination of road conditions. Documenting the condition of the road during the accident can demonstrate additional factors that contributed to the incident.
Maximizing Your Settlement After a Motorcycle Accident
After a motorcycle accident, obtaining the maximum possible settlement requires several key steps.
First, you need to document all your losses and expenses accurately. This documentation is essential in negotiating with insurance companies or in court.
Keep all receipts and records related to the accident, as they will serve as evidence of your financial losses.
Reach out to us for case results and motorcycle accident settlement examples.
Documenting Medical Expenses, Lost Wages, and Pain and Suffering
Document every doctor’s visit, treatment, and medication related to your catastrophic injuries from the motorcycle accident. Keep track of any time taken off work and how the injuries have affected your ability to earn an income.
Recording these details will help in claiming economic damages effectively. We know the motorcycle accident settlement process from end to end.
Working With a Lawyer to Negotiate With Insurance Companies
An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can be vital in negotiating with insurance companies. Lawyers know the tactics these companies use and can counteract them effectively.
This support is crucial in ensuring that your compensation fully reflects your losses. We have the experience you need when pursuing motorcycle accident cases.
Pursuing Litigation if a Fair Settlement Is Not Reached
Litigation might be the next step if negotiations do not result in a fair settlement. Taking your case to court can be daunting, but getting the compensation you deserve may be necessary.
An experienced lawyer will help you through this process, representing your interests robustly. We don’t just want an average settlement. We want a fair settlement that covers your damages and losses.
How Hasbrook & Hasbrook Can Help With Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
- Personalized legal strategy. We tailor our approach to the specifics of your motorcycle accident case, ensuring that all angles are covered.
- Expert negotiations. Our lawyers have years of experience negotiating with insurance companies to get our clients the maximum compensation.
- Thorough investigation. We investigate every aspect of your crash, collecting the relevant evidence to build a strong case.
- Legal representation in court. If your case goes to court, our skilled lawyers will represent you fiercely and advocate for your rights.
- No upfront costs. You won’t have to pay anything unless we win your case, reducing your financial risk.
Call Our Oklahoma Motorcycle Accident Lawyer To Schedule a Free Case Consultation
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to contact Hasbrook & Hasbrook. Our skilled motorcycle accident lawyers are prepared to review your legal options and fight for compensation.
The average motorcycle accident settlement varies markedly from case to case. Our firm fights for motorcycle accident victims. We can see if we can file a car accident or motorcycle accident lawsuit on your behalf. Contact us today to schedule a free case review.