Motorcycle Accidents (2025)

Identifying Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often share similarities with other vehicular accidents, with the difference being the visibility of motorcycles. A frequent cause cited for these accidents is the failure of vehicle drivers to notice motorcycles. Other prevalent causes include speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, failure to yield, lane splitting, improper lane changes, and aggressive driving.

How Do Blind Spots Impact Motorcycle Safety?

One of the main reasons drivers often don’t see motorcycles is that they easily fit into most vehicles’ blind spots. Different cars have different blind spots, but a common one is beside the vehicle toward the rear. Understanding blind spots might not prevent all motorcycle accidents, but it will help you stay safer on the road.

Motorcycle Accident Damages

In a motorcycle accident lawsuit, your lawyer will try to recover damages for you. The term “damages” refers to compensation for losses you’ve suffered. Your lawyer will likely try to secure compensation for losses like:

• Medical expenses
• Ongoing medical care and rehabilitation
• Lost wages
• Lost earning potential
• The cost of repairing or replacing your motorcycle
• Emotional distress
• Diminished quality of life
• The psychological impact of disfigurement

Typically, the at-fault driver’s liability insurance will cover these and other losses. If the driver caused an accident without insurance, your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may provide compensation instead.

The Impact of Helmet Laws

Helmet laws vary by state, with most requiring protective headgear. These laws aim to reduce the risk of brain injuries, supported by studies highlighting the dangers of riding without a helmet. Failure to wear a helmet can be detrimental in accident claims, potentially affecting the compensation received.

Motorcycle Design or Manufacturing Defects

In some cases, a malfunction or defect in the motorcycle itself may cause an accident. If an investigation reveals that either a design or manufacturing flaw was to blame, you may be able to file a product liability lawsuit.

Potential Liability Issues for Riders

Riders' actions, such as speeding, ignoring traffic signals, or weaving through traffic, can contribute to partial liability in an accident, affecting compensation claims. It's vital to understand how these factors can influence the outcome of your case.

Understanding Insurance in Motorcycle Accidents

Insurance requirements vary depending on the state. In most states, the at-fault driver’s liability insurance would cover your losses. If those losses exceed the at-fault driver’s policy limits, you might also be able to file a claim with your uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance.

However, it’s important to remember that insurance companies aren’t on your side (or the other driver’s side, for that matter) — their primary focus is protecting their bottom line. If you make a statement without talking to an attorney first, the insurer may distort what you say to make it seem like you were at fault.

As such, it’s always wise to get in touch with a personal injury lawyer before talking to the insurance company.

Navigating Post-Accident Steps

Following an accident, taking specific steps can protect your legal rights, including reporting the accident to the police, seeking immediate medical attention, and consulting a lawyer. These actions are foundational in building a strong case for your claim.

ConsumerShield’s Lawyer Network

If you're facing the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, consulting with an attorney can provide clarity on your legal options and the best course of action. ConsumerShield’s attorney network can help you find a qualified lawyer to assist with your case. You don't have to handle this situation alone.