The Legal Options of Injured Motorcycle Passengers

Any motor vehicle crash can be intense for all involved, but when it comes to motorcycle accidents, with no outer frame or so much as an airbag to protect riders and passengers, the effects can be all the more devastating. So what can you do when a crash leaves you with medical bills and missed income?

Depending on the details of your accident, you may be able to go after the person operating the motorcycle, another driver, or a repair shop or manufacturer, or perhaps you can file a claim with your own insurer.

• Filing a claim against the operator. Now you might feel uncomfortable with this, as you were likely riding with a friend or relative. But the reality is, your friend or family member is unlikely to pay anything out of pocket. It’s their insurance that will pay you what you need. This might be your option if the person operating the bike was speeding or made a reckless turn, for instance.
• Filing a claim against another driver. A great deal of crashes are the fault of drivers who failed to notice the bike before making a turn, changing lanes, or entering the intersection. If another driver was at fault for the accident, then you could file a claim with their insurer.
• Filing a claim against the manufacturer or mechanic. If a manufacturer designed a defective motorcycle frame, or a mechanic improperly repaired the turn signals or brakes, then they could be held responsible for your injuries.
• Filing a claim with your insurer. If the driver you want to go after does not have insurance, or if they are underinsured, then you could file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist policy, if you have such a policy.

In some cases, you may even be able to go after a city for dangerous roadways, such as potholes, bridge defects, etc.

Find out how strong your claim is when you talk to a Raleigh personal injury lawyer for free. Call the Whitley Law Firm today to start exploring your legal options for getting the financial compensation you deserve.