Motorcycles are fun vehicles to ride. Visibility is a necessity when you are riding your bike. You need to do everything that you can to stand out, so you can make sure drivers will notice you. The goal is to avoid a crash.
However, even the safest bikers are involved in accidents. If your motorcycle was damaged in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you should enlist the help of a personal injury lawyer and pursue a personal injury claim against the responsible party.
Motorcycle Damaged in a Crash
Motorcycles have varying costs. You might have a $6,000 bike or you might be riding a high-end $35,000 Harley Davidson. The make and model of your bike will impact the cost of having it repaired.
If your bike’s damages will cost more to fix than the bike is worth, it will be considered a total loss. In that case, the insurance should give you the fair market value for the bike.
If a bike crash has left your bike damaged, have it hauled by a tow truck to a reputable bike repair shop. Sometimes this might be a bike dealer in your area.
You will need to keep the receipts for the towing and get a written estimate for the full repair of your bike. Take photos of the damages as well, as that can help you prove your claim against the other driver.
How to Prove You Weren’t at Fault for the Crash
To win a personal injury claim, you will need to demonstrate that the other party acted in a negligent manner. There are four different elements of negligence that need to be shown. Here are examples of ways to do that.
First, the other driver owes you a duty to obey traffic laws and stay on the lookout for bikers to prevent crashes. Next, you will need to show how the duty was breached. As an example, the driver merged over on you and hit your bike, causing the crash.
Third, you need to show that the crash that ensued was caused by the driver merging over to the lane you are driving in prematurely and striking your bike. If the driver hadn’t merged, then the accident wouldn’t have happened.
Then lastly, you must show damages. Provide the receipt for towing, the written repair estimates, any photos of damages, copies of medical bills, and proof of missed work and lost wages.
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If your bike was damaged in a crash with another vehicle because of the other driver’s negligence, you should enlist the help of a personal injury attorney who is licensed in your state. With the help of a lawyer, your odds of a personal injury claim improve significantly.
Your lawyer will not get paid until you are compensated for your losses. To get your claim details reviewed, complete the Free Case Evaluation Form today!
