Financial stress can be a result of motorcycle accidents, as well as physical pain. Medical bills can add up quickly, and time away from work increases stress. Many riders wonder: What can I claim after a crash?
Understanding different types of compensation will help you to prepare for your recovery, both financially and physically.
Medical Expenses
The most common claim is for medical costs. Treatment after a motorcycle accident can range from immediate hospital care to long-term rehabilitation. Here are some of most common insurance expenses:
- Transport and hospitalization by ambulance
- Diagnostic tests such as X rays and surgery are also available.
- Prescription drugs
- Chiropractic care and physical treatment
- Treatment of long-term injuries
Even if your initial injury seems minor, additional visits and complications can increase costs over time. Keep all receipts.
Lost Wages
Injuries can lead to time away from work. Riders may be forced to miss weeks of work, or even months. The following are examples of wage loss claims:
- Revenues missed during recovery
- Temporary light duty or reduced hours of work
- Future earnings in the event of an accident that affects your ability to work for a long time
If you are a self-employed person, you can prove your loss of income by using documents such as invoices, tax returns or contracts.
Property Damage
Accidents can cause serious damage to motorcycles. You can claim for the cost of repairing your bike, riding equipment, helmet, and other personal items. Motorcycles are more vulnerable than cars, and even minor accidents may cause costly damage.
Pain and Suffering
Accidents can cause much more than financial losses. Accidents can also have a major impact on an individual. The claim for pain and suffering acknowledges both the physical and emotional impact. This includes:
- Chronic pain or permanent disability
- Anxiety and depression can lead to emotional distress.
- No longer do you enjoy the things that used to be enjoyable
These claims may be harder to quantify, but they are still important. Recovery is not just about money. It’s also about quality of life.
Loss of Consortium
Loss of consortium is available to some riders in situations where an injury affects family life or relationships. This type of compensation is meant to address how an accident affects a family member, spouse or partner due to changes in intimacy or companionship.
Future Expenses
Serious accidents can result in ongoing costs. Riders may have to undergo further surgeries, use long-term medication, or need adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs. To avoid financial hardships, these projected costs can also be included in the claim.
Wrongful death claims
Families can claim compensation for the death of a loved one in an accident. These claims can cover funeral expenses, lost income in the future, and emotional damages suffered by the family.
Why Documentation Is Important
The key to a successful insurance claim is usually the evidence. Riders must have all the documentation they can, including receipts, medical reports, photos of accident scenes and witness statements. A detailed record will help you get the compensation that you deserve.
Final Thoughts
The recovery from a motorcycle accident is about more than healing your body. Financial stability is key to your ability to move forward. Claims may cover medical bills, lost wages and property damage, as well as emotional distress.
You can prepare by knowing your rights. Even though compensation cannot make up for your loss, it can still help you rebuild your life.
This post was written by a professional at Bonardi & Uzdavinis, LLP. Bonardi & Uzdavinis, LLP is a boutique, full service law firm providing its clients with a wide range of representation. Our primary areas of practice include real estate, probate, personal injury, construction, and commercial litigation. If you are looking for a real estate attorney or st petersburg personal injury lawyer contact us today for a case evaluation today!
