As an average settlement amount, this number represents a statistical average payout for motorcycle accident cases. This means that settlements may be higher or lower than this number, since it is only an average. When considering an appropriate settlement amount, a case will have many unique factors in play. As a result, there are many variables that can impact how much a motorcycle accident case is ultimately worth.
Note: Cases used to calculate the average settlement for motorcycle accidents only include settlements and trials where the claimant was operating a motorcycle at the time of the accident.
Use our legal checklist to learn what to do after an accident and understand key legal considerations for recovering financial compensation.
MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT SETTLEMENTS & EXAMPLES
At Brown & Crouppen Law Firm, our motorcycle accident lawyers have helped hundreds of accident victims recover compensation for their injuries as a result of settlement and verdicts.
HOW MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT SETTLEMENT AMOUNTS ARE DETERMINED
Motorcycle accident settlement amounts largely depend on supporting evidence, facts, and other circumstances regarding the case. The overall value of a motorcycle accident is strongly affected by the following considerations:
- Liability – In many states, the at-fault driver must be found liable for the accident, and proven to be responsible for the resulting damages. Liability can be determined differently depending on state laws and insurance systems. In most cases, the other driver is at-fault for causing the motorcycle accident.
- Damages – Generally, motorcycle accidents that result in higher damages are more likely to have larger settlement values. This includes injuries, medical treatment, and lost wages.
OTHER FACTORS THAT AFFECT A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT SETTLEMENT
- Insurance coverage – Many states have insurance coverage requirements, which is usually $25,000 / person and $50,000 / accident. This is the minimum liability coverage requirement in several states, including Kansas, Illinois, and Missouri. Many states also require uninsured motorist coverage if an accident occurs with a driver who is uninsured. In Kansas, Illinois, and Missouri, the minimum requirement for uninsured motorist coverage is also $25,000 / person and $50,000 / accident. Insurance policies and providers have a large impact on the motorcycle accident settlement process and the final settlement amount.
- Liability – If an accident happens in Missouri, the insurance company of the at-fault driver is responsible for covering damages, including medical bills, property damage, and any injuries that result from the car accident. In some cases, it’s easy to prove who’s at-fault However, other cases may result in partial liability, which is a feature of comparative negligence that allows claimants to pursue compensation from defendants in accordance with defendants’ role in the accident. When a car accident fails to suggest a clear at-fault party, a claim may proceed to court or trial.
- Injury severity – The payout of motorcycle accident settlements is also highly influenced by the severity of injuries that resulted from the accident. For example, a motorcycle accident that resulted in serious physical harm such as a brain or spinal cord trauma, is more likely to have a higher settlement amount than a case with a recoverable injury, such as a broken bone or lacerations. A motorcycle accident injury that is serious, life-threatening, and/or non-recoverable justifies a higher payout than the typical motorcycle settlement amount, where only minor injuries occurred. This is due to pain and suffering claims, as well as greater medical expenses.
- State laws – Many states vary in how minimum insurance coverage, traffic laws, helmet laws, and governing state laws for fault affect a motorcycle accident claim. A personal injury lawyer can help you determine how state laws may affect your claim, and can also assist with deciding the best steps for proceeding with your motorcycle accident case.
- Financial loss – When determining the payout of a motorcycle accident settlement, financial loss is another factor that can impact the settlement amount. Financial loss can include vehicle damage, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and any lost wages that might occur due to being unable to work.
HOW MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS ARE CALCULATED
Motorcycle accident settlements are largely dependent on the insurance company and driver coverage. A standard formula is used to calculate the value of a motorcycle accident settlement, which includes the following:
- Fault / negligence
- Severity of injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Lost income / wages
Motorcycle accidents that involve an uninsured driver are handled differently than those that involve insured drivers. For example, motorcycle accident cases where the at-fault driver was insured will likely be influenced by the insurance policy limits of the at-fault party. A motorcycle accident lawyer will be able to help you collect evidence, estimate that value of your case, and build a strong claim against the negligent driver.
MAXIMIZE THE COMPENSATION OF YOUR MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT SETTLEMENT
At Brown & Crouppen Law Firm, our motorcycle accident lawyers can help you maximize the compensation of your motorcycle accident settlement by collecting evidence, handling the legal process, negotiating with the insurance company, and taking the case to trial if necessary. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, immediately seek medical attention.
Due to Missouri’s statute of limitations for auto accidents, it’s important to get started on your claim as soon as possible. Request a free case evaluation from a motorcycle injury attorney at Brown & Crouppen, or call 888-801-9825 to get started.
