After a motorcycle accident, one of the most common questions a victim will ask is “How much is my case worth?” While many people turn to online estimates and search for the average value of a case, the truth is that motorcycle accident settlements vary widely.
Liability and fault are key factors in motorcycle accident claims, as they determine who is responsible for the accident and who pays the settlement. The at-fault driver or other at-fault party is typically responsible for damages, and proving their negligence is essential for a successful personal injury claim.
Understanding the factors that can influence a motorcycle accident settlement puts you in a better position to negotiate and pursue maximum compensation, rather than an average that may or may not cover the extent of your injuries.
Understanding Your Potential Settlement Amount
Your potential motorcycle settlement amount depends on numerous factors, including the following:
- The circumstances of the accident
- The severity of your injuries
- How those injuries may impact your ability to work
- How your injuries impact your long-term quality of life
Some accident victims may have a case worth thousands of dollars, while others can reach into the millions.
So many things can affect a case value. It is in your best interests to work with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who can help calculate the fair value of your injuries and navigate the complexities of the legal process. Additionally, those with legal representation tend to recover more motorcycle accident compensation than individuals who attempt to negotiate without assistance.
What Determines Your Motorcycle Accident Settlement?
Some of the case-specific factors that can help determine how much your motorcycle accident settlement may be worth include:
- The percentage of fault each party bears for causing the accident
- Disputed liability, where there is a disagreement over who is at fault, which can complicate and lengthen the settlement process and eventual outcome of your personal injury case
- The available insurance coverage or policy limits
- The severity of a victim’s injuries
- The length and type of medical treatment necessary
- The length of time you have missed work due to accident-related injuries
- Whether you can return to work in the same capacity
- How your injuries impact quality of life
- The strength of available evidence, including medical records and witness statements
Insurance companies often make low initial settlement offers that do not reflect the true value of your claim. An experienced attorney can help you avoid common mistakes during the claims process to protect your claim and its value.
Typical Compensation Included in a Motorcycle Settlement
The overall value of motorcycle accident claims varies depending on the circumstances of the incident. In general, though, most accident victims can pursue compensation to cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering (non-economic damages)
Physical injuries, including those that require physical therapy and long-term care, are a significant factor in determining settlement amounts.
How Insurance Companies Actually Calculate Offer Amounts
Insurance companies calculate settlement offers using available evidence and documentation that allows them to tabulate medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. They may also attempt to place a subjective value on a person’s likely pain and suffering, depending on the severity of a person’s injuries.
Accident victims should understand that a speedy initial offer may not account for medical costs associated with future treatment, rehabilitation, or quality of life factors, and can be lowball offers that save the insurer money.
Why Work with a Wisconsin Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
A knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer has the resources to collect and preserve valuable evidence that supports your motorcycle accident claim for maximum compensation. Our motorcycle accident attorneys can investigate your case, gather supporting evidence, and calculate the full extent of your damages. Our lawyers have the experience and skills to go head-to-head with insurers and negotiate for the money our clients need to rebuild their lives.
Insurers may use tactics to pressure vulnerable motorcycle accident victims into accepting a settlement that won’t come close to covering their extensive losses. Working with a law firm strengthens your position and safeguards your rights.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys to Learn More
Motorcycle accident claims can be highly complex, and disputes over liability can threaten the compensation you deserve. Let an attorney with LawtonCates guide you through the motorcycle accident settlement process. Our team wants to help you maximize your compensation while taking the stress of managing an accident claim off your shoulders. Contact our office today to arrange a free consultation to discuss your situation.
