Frequently Asked Questions about Motorcycle Accident Claims
What are the time limits for motorcycle accident claims?
It is important to note that in most cases, starting at the date of the injury, there is a three-year time limit to start court proceedings for personal injury claims. This is known as the ‘limitation period’.
There can be rare exceptions to this. For example, a court may decide to extend a time limit, however this all depends on the circumstances of the case. If you are unsure about your circumstances it is always best to speak to an expert. Talk to one of our expert motorcycle accident solicitors for expert legal advice and guidance.
What are the main causes of motorcycle accidents?
Negligence of another road user
The most common contributory factor leading to fatal or serious collisions with motorcycles in the UK was due to the driver or rider failing to look properly. According to the latest government statistics, the majority of motorcycle casualties happen at junctions.
Following this, other common causes include the driver or rider failing to judge another person’s path, speed or by their driving carelessly
Road Defects
Every day across the UK, damaged roads and hazards cause serious injuries. Some of the defects that may cause a motorcycle accident include potholes, surface deterioration or fluid spills. Additionally, farm or site vehicles may leave mud on the carriageway.
Highways England and local councils are responsible for maintaining the roads around the country, therefore if your accident was caused by a road defect, the body responsible for that area will pay your compensation if your claim is successful. Alternatively, if there is a spillage or mud on the surface of the carriageway, the accident may be the responsibility of whoever caused the fluid or mud to be left there.
Hit and run motorcycle accidents
Unfortunately, after a motorcycle accident some drivers fail to stop at the scene. This is regarded as an offence under Section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. Where this occurs you’ll be able to make a claim through the Motor Insurer’s Bureau (MIB). This includes accidents where the driver was either uninsured or is untraceable.
Can I make a No Win, No Fee compensation claim after a motorcycle accident?
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident within the last three years that was caused by someone else’s negligence it is likely that you will be able to make a No Win, No Fee compensation claim.
After sustaining a serious injury, we understand you may be traumatised and it may be difficult for you to know whether the accident was your fault. If you are concerned about liability, fault or being partly to blame for the accident, it is important to seek expert legal advice as you may still be able to make a claim.
Here at Serious Law, we specialise in complex accident cases and difficult liability situations. We have acted for hundreds of clients who thought they had no case and we have gone on to secure them substantial compensation to assist with their recovery and rebuilding their future lives.
If you happen to be questioning whether you are partly to blame in a motorcycle accident, speak confidentially to one of our specialist solicitors today to discuss the best way to move forward.
Can I make a motorcycle accident claim on behalf of someone else?
In severe circumstances, a motorcycle accident may result in a serious brain injury meaning that an individual may lack the mental capacity to make a claim on their own behalf.
In such circumstances, it is possible, and perfectly normal for a close family member or friend to act on their behalf to ensure the compensation they deserve can be recovered.
If you are in this situation and are looking to claim on behalf of a family member or friend, talk to a member of our specialist solicitors today for a free consultation.
What does motorcycle accident compensation include?
When your compensation sum is calculated, the physical, psychological and financial impact of your injury will be taken into account. Further to this, the severity of your injury, anticipated recovery time and effects of your injury will be considered.
Our serious injury lawyers assess your immediate and long-term requirements to ensure you receive the correct level of compensation. Find out more about how compensation is calculated.
