Posted in Personal Injury Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents are often treated very differently by insurance companies compared to standard car accidents. For those of us who ride, this isn’t news. Riders are often met with skepticism, delays, and lower initial settlement offers. Understanding why insurance companies approach these claims differently can help us prepare for what comes next and avoid getting taken advantage of during an already difficult time.
Why bias affects the claims process
One of the biggest reasons insurance companies treat motorcycle accident claims differently is because of long-standing bias. Riders are often viewed as risk-takers or less cautious, which leads some insurers to assume partial fault even when the rider is not responsible. This perception can influence the investigation, the timeline of a claim, and the amount offered.
Even when a motorcyclist follows all traffic laws, wears protective gear, and has a clean record, insurance adjusters may be more aggressive in questioning the facts of the case. They may argue that the injuries were caused by reckless behavior or that the rider could have avoided the crash altogether. This approach shifts responsibility and helps them reduce or deny payment.
How injury claims are evaluated differently
Motorcycle accident injuries are often more severe than those from car crashes. With less physical protection, riders can suffer broken bones, head trauma, and long-term mobility issues. Unfortunately, this often means higher medical costs and longer recovery times, which insurers want to avoid paying in full.
Rather than focus on the nature of the injury alone, insurance companies may attempt to downplay treatment plans or suggest prior health conditions contributed to the outcome. In many cases, they’ll request extensive documentation and look for any reason to challenge the need for certain care. Riders may also be pressured to settle quickly before the full scope of the injury is clear.
As a result, it’s important to have someone who understands what’s fair and what should be pushed back on. Our knowledgeable Washington DC motorcycle accident lawyer can help level the field when facing this kind of resistance.
The need for strong documentation
Because insurance companies tend to scrutinize motorcycle accident claims more closely, having clear and consistent documentation matters. Police reports, witness statements, medical records, and photographs of the scene and injuries all help build a strong claim. Riders must be ready to show not only who was at fault, but also how the crash affected their daily life and long-term well-being.
At Cohen & Cohen, we’ve worked with motorcyclists across the DC area who were injured through no fault of their own, yet still had to fight for fair treatment. Our founding partner, Wayne R. Cohen, has built his career around protecting those injured in serious accidents, and his national recognition stems from his results and tireless commitment to his clients. Mr. Cohen has appeared on national networks, taught law at The George Washington University since 1993, and been recognized repeatedly by Washingtonian Magazine and The Wall Street Journal.
Support makes all the difference
Dealing with insurance companies after a motorcycle crash can feel like an uphill battle. When they try to minimize your injuries or delay your claim, it can take a serious toll. If you’ve been injured and feel like your side isn’t being heard, we’re ready to help. Contact Cohen & Cohen today to speak with a team who understands what’s at stake and is ready to fight for your recovery.
