Motorcycle Accidents
For anyone unfortunate enough to be involved in a motorcycle crash, it can be a very distressing and often debilitating experience. Without the safe and reassuring cocoon of a car body around them, motorcyclists are far more vulnerable, and therefore far more likely to be injured or even killed. In fact, even though bikers represent only about 1% of all traffic on UK roads, they account for 20% of KSI collisions (Killed/Seriously Injured).
Some collisions occur when the rider runs out of talent or oversteps their abilities, causing them to lose control of their machine. However, a greater proportion of crashes are caused by road conditions such as Diesel spills, or actions by other drivers such as failing to see the motorcyclist approaching. Any biker will tell you about their fear of a “SMIDSY” crash (short for “Sorry Mate, I Didn’t See You”). The vast majority of motorcyclists ride safely and defensively and kit themselves out with the safest gear, but sometimes crashes and injuries can prove to be unavoidable.
So if you’re unfortunate enough to be involved in a collision on your motorbike, especially one that wasn’t your fault, you’ll be comforted to know that there are tried and tested systems in place to make sure you get the compensation you deserve and some much-needed assistance to help you recover from any injuries.
Involved in a crash that wasn’t your fault?
If you were involved in a crash that wasn’t your fault, you have three years to submit a claim, and you also have to demonstrate that any injuries you claim for were caused by the collision. This can include physical or even psychological trauma. And even if you weren’t entirely blameless, you can often be eligible to claim under a “Split Liability” agreement with the third party.
How much compensation can I get?
There are a huge number of variables that can affect how much compensation you are awarded. These include the severity of your injury, the length of time you were off work, the length of time it takes for you to recover, the ongoing effects of injuries, whether you had to have surgery, and the damage to your bike or safety equipment.
If your estimated claim amounts to less than £25,000 under guidelines set for these types of claims, it could be resolved within six months and see you receive a quick and substantial payment. If the claim is more complex or is likely to be worth more than this amount, it will take longer but you could be eligible for an interim payment towards your ongoing care while the rest of the claim is resolved.
No Win No Fee
Even better, many solicitors offer free consultations, and their services are available on a “No Win, No Fee” basis, meaning that they get their fees from the third party, and you get to keep every penny of your compensation.
So how much are you actually likely to get? These amounts are very general, but for minor injuries or whiplash that heal quickly without complications, pay-outs are usually between £1,000 and £5,000. Simple breaks and fractures are usually worth up to £10,000. More serious and complex injuries continue up the scale from there. And if you’re unfortunate enough to sustain a permanent disablement, your pay-out could reach six figures.
It’s always better for you not to be involved in a motorbike crash in the first place! But if the unthinkable occurs and it wasn’t your fault, you can rest assured that you’ll get a fair amount of compensation to help you recover.
