Motorcycle accidents can be devastating. They often lead to serious injuries and life-changing consequences. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, you may already be aware of how complicated the claims process can be. Unfortunately, there are many myths surrounding motorcycle accident claims, which can discourage people from pursuing compensation.
Here are some of the most common motorcycle accident claim myths—and the truth behind them.
Myth: Motorcycle riders are always at fault
One of the biggest myths is that motorcycle riders are always to blame for accidents. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Motorcycle riders have the same rights to the road as other motorists. Liability in an accident is determined based on the specific circumstances of the crash, not the type of vehicle involved.
Myth: If you’re wearing a helmet, you can’t file a claim
Ohio typically does not require helmets, unless you’re 18 or have a novice license. Whether or not you were wearing a helmet doesn’t affect your ability to seek compensation for injuries sustained in a crash. Even if you were wearing a helmet, if another driver was negligent or at fault, you can still pursue a claim for damages, including medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering.
It’s important to note that wearing a helmet may help reduce the severity of head injuries.
Myth: Insurance will automatically pay for your expenses
Another common myth is that insurance will automatically cover all the costs associated with a motorcycle accident, including medical bills, property damage and lost wages. While insurance may cover some of these expenses, it’s unlikely to cover everything—especially if the settlement doesn’t consider the long-term impact of your injuries.
Insurance companies often try to settle quickly and for as little as possible, which may not reflect the true cost of your recovery.
Myth: If you were partly at fault, you can’t file a claim
Many motorcyclists assume that if they were even partially responsible for an accident, they are ineligible to file a claim. However, in Ohio, the principle of comparative negligence applies. This means that if you were partly at fault, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault you are assigned, but you can still pursue a claim.
For example, if you are found 20 percent at fault for an accident, you may still be able to recover 80 percent of the damages you would have otherwise been entitled to.
Myth: You don’t need an attorney for an accident claim
Many people believe that they don’t need a lawyer to handle a motorcycle accident claim, especially if the other driver was clearly at fault. While it’s possible to file a claim on your own, the reality is that motorcycle accident cases can be complex. Insurance companies often use certain tactics to minimize payouts. It can be challenging to prove fault, especially in cases where there are disputed facts or unclear evidence.
Having the Law Offices of Tim Misny on your side can help. We are skilled in dealing motorcycle accident claims and can protect your interests throughout the entire process. Call today to get started.
Talk to a Columbus motorcycle accident attorney today
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your motorcycle accident claim. When you’re the victim of negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (877) 614-9524 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
