Injured and Fighting for a Fair Settlment?
When it comes to getting what’s fair in motorcycle accident settlements, having a lawyer can make all the difference.
Here’s a stat that might surprise you about accident settlements: a survey by Nolo found that 91% of people with attorneys received a payout, compared to 51% without legal representation.Those stats are truly staggering but so is how that translates in terms of average settlement amounts. The same study says the average settlement for those with lawyers was $77,600, while those without averaged $17,600. What’s this all mean? If you’re in a crash, lawyer up. Those who go it alone? They’re almost always left shortchanged by insurance companies looking to save a buck. If you’ve ever been in a motorcycle accident, you know how quickly things can spiral. One minute, you’re cruising along; the next, you’re dealing with damaged gear, medical bills, and insurance adjusters who act like they’re doing you a favor. Knowing how settlements work can mean the difference between getting back on the road or being stuck in a financial mess. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect if the unexpected happens.
The Problem with Motorcycle Accident Settlements Riders Deal With
Insurance companies love to play dirty, and bikers are often their easiest targets. You’d think after an accident they’d have your back. Nope. Most of the time, they’re trying to pay out as little as possible—or nothing at all. Here’s what they don’t want you to know:- They’ll Blame You: “Motorcyclists are reckless.” They’ll say it even if you were stopped at a red light.
- They’ll Lowball You: They know you’ve got bills piling up and hope you’ll take their first (terrible) offer just to make it go away.
- They’ll Delay: Dragging things out to wear you down, hoping you’ll quit fighting.
How the Settlement Process Works
- Start with the Basics: The first step is filing a claim with your insurance company (and maybe the other driver’s, too). Sounds simple, right? It’s not. This is where adjusters start poking holes in your story.
- Insurance Adjusters Step In: Their job is to save their company money—not to help you. They’ll look for ways to twist what you say or downplay your injuries. Don’t let them.
- Negotiation Begins: This is where things get serious. You or your lawyer will argue for what you’re owed. Settlement amounts depend on factors like:
- Medical bills (past and future).
- Lost income from time off work.
- Pain and suffering (yeah, that’s a thing, and you deserve it).
Injured? Call (319) 294-4424 for a free consultation or click below.
What’s the Average Settlement for a Motorcycle Accident?
When it comes to motorcycle accident settlements, the first thing to understand is that there’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer. While some reports suggest the average settlement ranges anywhere from $10,000 to $250,000, with severe cases exceeding that, it’s important to remember that no two cases are the same. We’ve seen cases where damages are in the 7-figures. It’s all relative to various factors. The amount you may receive depends on a variety of factors, such as:- Severity of Injuries: Serious injuries like fractures or spinal damage usually lead to higher settlements compared to minor injuries.
- Medical Costs: This includes both current medical expenses and the estimated cost of future treatments.
- Lost Income: If you’ve missed work or are unable to return to your job, compensation for lost wages becomes a major factor.
- Property Damage: The cost to repair or replace your bike and any other damaged gear is also considered.
- Pain and Suffering: This less tangible factor accounts for emotional distress, reduced quality of life, or long-term physical pain.
What about a Personal Injury Calculator?
Here’s the kicker: while averages can give you a ballpark idea, past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is unique, depending on the specifics of the accident, the insurance policies involved, and even the jurisdiction. That’s why working with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can make all the difference—they’ll help ensure all these factors are accounted for in your claim.Call (319) 294-4424 for a free consultation.
Why Having a Lawyer Changes Everything
With a lawyer, you get:
- Someone Who Knows the Rules: Lawyers understand the tricks insurance companies pull and how to fight back.
- The Power to Maximize Your Claim: They’ll make sure every dollar you’re owed—medical costs, lost wages, bike repairs, pain and suffering—is accounted for.
- Peace of Mind: While you focus on recovering and getting back to your life, they handle the stress.
Why Riders Trust The Biker Lawyers
Conclusion
Nobody plans on being in an accident, but knowing how settlements work can help you be prepared if the worst happens. Don’t let an insurance company take you for a ride—stand up for what you deserve.
Have you been in an accident? Don’t wait.
Your injuries and your future matter. Get a free consultation with The Biker Lawyers today, and let’s make sure you get back on the road with what you need to move forward.