Bias Against Motorcycle Riders May Endanger Your Accident Claim

Due to decades of misleading television and movie portrayals, motorcycle riders are often seen as lawless, devil-may-care types who routinely endanger themselves and others.

In fact, when thinking of motorcyclists, motorists are more likely to picture thoughtless young people or unruly gang members than upstanding members of the community who simply enjoy the freedom of cruising the open road with the wind in their hair and the sun at their back.

Why Riders Usually Don’t Get Fair Treatment

While misconceptions about riding motorcycles keep the activity shrouded in an alluring mystique, they can actively work against bikers seeking compensation for injuries and other losses sustained in crashes caused by the negligence of another person or entity. Bias against motorcyclists can cause motorists, law enforcement officers, insurance adjusters, juries, and even judges to falsely assume the rider is to blame for the accident. This might lead to smaller insurance settlements or fewer court-awarded damages.

Fortunately, the existence of bias against motorcyclists doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s impossible for accident victims to get the compensation and justice they deserve. A skilled Georgia personal injury attorney with experience handling motorcycle accident cases can complete a thorough investigation of the crash and present evidence in a way that refutes common biases such as:

• The motorcycle was too hard to see.
• The rider was speeding or otherwise driving recklessly at the time of the accident.
• The motorcyclist is automatically liable for accidents.
• People who enjoy motorcycling are “thugs and criminals,” rather than upstanding citizens.

Attorneys can attempt to combat biases about motorcyclists in many ways, including relying on the testimony of eyewitnesses and expert witnesses, such as accident reconstructionists.

Consult a Knowledgeable Georgia Motorcycle Crash Attorney

If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident caused by another person or entity’s negligence, you might be entitled to compensation.

The skilled motorcycle accident attorneys with Van Sant Law can investigate the crash, prepare a strong case, and help you overcome biases that could result in less financial recovery than you deserve. today to schedule an appointment for a complimentary initial consultation.