As a motorcyclist there are a number of steps you can take to protect yourself to reduce the risk of severe injuries on the road.
Sectons 83-88 of the Highway Code contain ‘rules for motorcyclists’ and state that you must wear a helmet which complies with regulations (unless you are of Sikh religion while wearing a turban) and it must be fastened securely. It also states that it is advisable to wear eye protection which is properly fitted and meets regulations, and encourages you to consider wearing ear protection, strong boots, gloves and suitable clothing.
Unfortunately, even if you take every measure to protect yourself, you are at risk of serious injury on the roads due to the fact that you have much less protection than those travelling in cars or vans. Common serious injuries include brain, head and orthopaedic injuries such as serious fractures. As well as physical injuries, there are often psychological symptoms due to the trauma suffered.
Accidents can occur in a variety of ways including when a vehicle:
- Collides with the rear of your motorbike
- Suddenly pulls out from a parked position or side road
- Cuts a corner
- Changes lanes without checking it is safe to do so
- Opens their door into your path.
You may also have to take evasive action to avoid a collision which can also result in injuries despite there being no collision. It is still possible to make a claim in this situation, so ensure you take all the details of the at fault driver and their vehicle.
After you have been involved in a road traffic accident, and you have sought appropriate medical attention you may be unable to work, or even care for yourself. You can make a personal injury claim for:
- Your pain, suffering and loss of amenity (the effect on your day-to-day life)
- Private treatment to aid your recovery
- Your loss of earnings and pension, as well as future loss, for example if you are unable to return to the same job, or any job at all;
- Care and assistance provided to you due to your injuries
- Medical aids and equipment, such as prosthetics and orthotics
- The cost of repair or replacement of your motorbike, helmet and clothing
- Accommodation costs and adaptations
- Day to day expenses such as medication, travel costs.
We have an experienced team that can assist you with your motorbike accident claim, making sure to achieve the maximum amount of compensation for you, and arranging the treatment required to help you recover as quickly as possible.
Often, motorbike accident claims are defended, with the insurer alleging that the rider was partly at fault due to use of excessive speed, or alleging they were filtering when unsafe to do so. We have the experience to assess your claim fully and negotiate liability settlements on your behalf. We also understand the importance of fully investigating a claim and obtaining specialist engineering and reconstruction reports when needed. We have in-depth knowledge of the case law involving motorbike accidents and previous liability decisions and are therefore perfectly placed to assist you with your motorcycle accident claim.
If you are interested in making a claim, call our experienced personal injury advisors on 0161 696 6235 who will be able to discuss the details of your claim with you and advise you further.
By Donna Wilkes, new business advisor
Comments