Motorcycle accidents are among the most devastating and deadly types of motor vehicle accidents. Despite the seriousness of motorcycle collisions, there are a number of erroneous beliefs that are held about motorcycle accidents and what to do as a crash victim.
Here are 5 surprising myths about motorcycle accidents and injuries, the truth behind them, and what to do if you or someone you love were hurt in a motorcycle crash.
1. Motorcycle Accidents Are Usually Caused by a Motorcyclist’s Recklessness
A commonly held belief is that the majority of motorcycle accidents are caused by the motorcyclist’s own recklessness. For example, if they were speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, or driving aggressively.
Why This is False
More motorcycle accidents are caused by other negligent drivers on the road. Motorcyclists are often sideswiped, knocked off their motorcycles, or bowled over simply because they weren’t seen. Motorcycle accidents can also be caused by road defects and inclement weather.
2. Motorcycle Injuries Are Always Physical
Motorcycle accidents tend to be highly injurious, resulting in critical and life-threatening injuries. These tend to stay in the spotlight and many people, including medical professionals, tend to focus only on the physical injuries caused by the accident.
Why This Is False
Serious accidents of all kinds are well known to have a negative psychological impact on the victim. Many people who have been in a motorcycle accident suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and other psychological trauma in addition to their physical injuries.
3. Car Accidents and Motorcycle Accidents Are the Same
Many people believe a collision is a collision and the impact tends to be the same across different types of accidents. They assume the risk of injury, types of injuries, and overall outcomes are highly similar between motorcycle and car accidents.
Why This Is False
Motorcycles lack the same protective metal “cage” that a car or truck does. A motorcyclist’s body is completely exposed in an accident, leading to much more serious and even fatal injuries.
4. You Have to Go to Court to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
A common misconception among motorcycle accident victims and their families is that if you pursue compensation for your injuries that you’ll have to go to court and deal with litigation, which can be stressful and time-consuming.
Why This Is False
Often, motorcycle accident lawsuits are settled out of court with the other party’s insurance company. You may also be able to pursue compensation from your own insurance company through your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if applicable.
5. You Don’t Need a Lawyer When Dealing with Motorcycle Insurance Companies
Many people believe that they can work directly with their insurance company after a motorcycle accident and receive a fair settlement without having to involve a lawyer.
Why This Is False
The primary goal of an insurance company is to pay out as little as possible on every claim, or they wouldn’t be in business. They’ll look for reasons your claim should be denied and offer you a lowball settlement without taking into account the full financial, physical, and emotional impact of the accident.
A motorcycle accident attorney can help you get the full and fair compensation you deserve by working with insurance companies on your behalf.
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Contact Mazow | McCullough, PC Today for Help
If you or a family member were involved in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to obtain financial compensation for the damages you incurred as a result of the collision, including but not limited to medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact experienced Massachusetts motorcycle accident attorneys Robert E. Mazow and Kevin J. McCullough today for more information or to schedule a consultation at.
