Motorcyclists can suffer severe injuries and significant damages in an accident. Oftentimes the crash is due to another person or company's negligence. In this case, the motorcyclist may be entitled to compensation for their injuries and other losses (medical expenses, lost wages, etc.). However, motorcyclists can face unfair bias from responding officers, insurance companies, judges, judges, and others. These biases may work against motorcycle riders when seeking fair and just compensation.
Why Motorcyclists May Face Bias in Personal Injury Claims
Motorcycle enthusiasts are often seen as reckless characters who regularly flaunt the rules to suit themselves. Some people may view them as lawbreakers and gang members. This characterization is untrue.
Assuming everyone who rides a motorcycle is thoughtless and reckless is unfair to responsible riders.
Common Biases Motorcyclists May Face in an Accident Claim
The following are examples of some common biases a motorcyclist could face when filing a claim for injuries and damages following an accident.
Examples of Motorcycle Biases in a Personal Injury Case
- People who enjoy riding motorcycles are all "criminals and thugs." No upstanding citizen would ride around on a bike.
- The driver of the car or truck could not see the motorcycle.
- The motorcyclist was speeding or driving recklessly when the accident occurred.
- The motorcycle operator is automatically at fault every time a collision occurs between a bike and another vehicle.
- Motorcycle operators can often not provide a statement to the police at the accident scene due to their injuries. Police usually base their reports on the car driver's version of the facts.
- Jury members aren't likely to be motorcycle riders. They don't understand that motorcycles handle differently than cars. Jury members may even feel that motorcycles shouldn't even be on the road.
- Insurance companies can take advantage of the stereotypes about motorcycle riders. Insurers are so confident that juries will be biased against motorcyclists that the company will often make a low-ball settlement offer to accident victims in these circumstances.
Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have sustained injuries associated with a motorcycle accident, you may have questions about your claim or any monetary damages to which you may be entitled. The helpful personal injury lawyers at Rechtman & Spevak have the experience required to help motorcycle accident victims. Our skilled legal team is happy to answer your questions to ensure you understand your rights and all the options available to you.
Contact our Atlanta law office today by filling out our online form or call 404-355-2688 to schedule an appointment for a free initial case consultation.
Related Links: |