Why Motorcycle Accident Claims Are Different from Car Accident Cases

Motor vehicle accidents are always stressful and often painful experiences—but when the accident involves a motorcycle, the legal, medical, and financial implications can be far more complicated. At Halliday McCall Accident Lawyers of Illinois, we help motorcycle crash victims in Peoria navigate the unique challenges of these cases and fight for the compensation they deserve.

Key Differences in Motorcycle vs. Car Accident Claims

1. Severity of Injuries

Motorcyclists are significantly more vulnerable than car drivers due to the lack of external protection. Even with helmets and protective gear, they often suffer more severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, or multiple fractures. These serious injuries typically result in longer recovery periods, higher medical costs, and more time away from work, making the stakes in a motorcycle claim much higher.

2. Bias Against Motorcyclists

Insurance companies and juries sometimes harbor bias against motorcyclists, unfairly perceiving them as reckless or risky drivers. This can impact how a claim is handled and how much compensation a victim receives. An experienced attorney can push back against these assumptions and ensure the focus remains on the facts of the case.

3. Different Accident Dynamics

Motorcycle accidents often occur in different ways than car crashes. For instance, “left-turn” accidents—where a vehicle turns left into the path of an oncoming motorcycle—are a common and often fatal scenario. Road hazards that wouldn’t affect a car, like potholes or uneven pavement, can cause catastrophic motorcycle wrecks. These unique scenarios require a careful, detailed investigation that considers the dynamics of two-wheeled travel.

4. Insurance and Coverage Issues

In some cases, the insurance policies involved in motorcycle crashes differ from those in car accidents. Not all auto insurance policies extend to motorcycle use, and the available coverage may be lower. It's important to assess all possible sources of compensation, including underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage, which can be vital in severe cases.

5. Helmet Laws and Their Impact

Illinois does not have a universal helmet law. While motorcyclists are not required to wear helmets, whether or not the rider had a helmet on during the crash can still influence how fault and damages are assessed. Defense attorneys and insurers may try to argue that a head injury was partially the rider’s fault for not wearing a helmet—even if the law doesn’t require one.

Why Legal Help Matters More in Motorcycle Cases

Motorcycle accident claims are complex and often contested. Having a legal team that understands the unique issues motorcyclists face is crucial. At Halliday McCall Accident Lawyers, we are prepared to investigate the scene, gather expert testimony, and build a strong case that reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses.