Motorcycle accidents can cause riders to suffer not only physical pain, but also financial stress. The cost of medical bills can quickly mount, while time away from the office adds to stress. After a crash, many riders ask: How much can I claim?
Understanding the different types of compensation can help you prepare to recover, both physically and financially.
Medical Expenses
Medical costs are the most common claim. The treatment after a motorcycle crash can range from immediate emergency room care through to long-term rehab. The following are some of the most common expenses covered by insurance:
- Transport by ambulance and hospitalization
- Diagnostic tests, such as X-rays and surgeries, are also available.
- Prescription drugs
- Chiropractic care and physical therapy
- Treatment for long-term injuries
Even if you initially think your injury is minor, subsequent visits and complications may increase the cost over time. It is important to keep all receipts and records.
Lost Wages
Injury can mean time off work. In some cases, riders may have to miss several weeks of work or even be unable to resume their jobs for months. Loss of wages claims can include:
- Revenue missed during recovery
- Reduced hours of work or temporary light duty
- Future earnings if accident affects long-term ability of work
Documentation such as tax returns, invoices or contracts can be used to prove the loss of income if you are self-employed.
Property Damage
Motorcycles can be severely damaged by accidents. You can claim the cost of repairing or replacing your bike, riding gear, helmet and other personal items. Motorcycles are more susceptible than cars and even minor accidents can cause expensive damage.
Pain and Suffering
Accidents cause more than just financial loss. They also have a huge impact on the individual. The pain and suffering claim acknowledges the emotional and physical impact. This can include:
- Chronic pain or permanent disability
- Anxiety or depression can cause emotional distress.
- You no longer enjoy the activities you used to love
These claims are harder to quantify but recognize that recovery isn’t just about money – it’s about the quality of life.
Loss of Consortium
Some riders can claim loss of consortium in cases where an injury has a significant impact on family relationships or life. This compensation type is intended to address the impact of an accident on a spouse, partner or family relationship due to changes in companionship or intimacy.
Future Expenses
Serious accidents can have ongoing costs. The rider may need to undergo future surgeries, take long-term medications, or use adaptive equipment like wheelchairs. These projected costs can be accounted for in claims to ensure that financial burdens do not resurface.
Wrongful death claims
In the worst of circumstances, families can file claims for a loved-one who died in the accident. These claims may cover funeral costs, future income lost, and emotional losses suffered by the family.
Why Documentation is Important
Evidence is often the key to a successful claim. Documentation is essential for riders, from receipts and medical reports to photos of the accident scene and witness statements. Your ability to get the full amount of compensation you are entitled to is enhanced by a detailed record.
Final Thoughts
Recovery from a motorcycle crash is more than just healing your body. Your ability to move on is largely determined by your financial stability. Medical bills, lost wages, property damage and emotional distress may be covered by claims.
Knowing what you are entitled to can help you prepare. Although no amount of compensation can make up for the loss, it can help you to get back on your feet and rebuild your life.
This post was written by a professional at Bonardi & Uzdavinis, LLP. Bonardi & Uzdavinis, LLP is a boutique, full service law firm providing its clients with a wide range of representation. Our primary areas of practice include real estate, probate, personal injury, construction, and commercial litigation. If you are looking for a real estate attorney or st petersburg personal injury lawyer contact us today for a case evaluation today!