Motorcycle accident victims often face an uphill battle when obtaining full and fair compensation from insurance companies. Because motorcycles offer little protection in the event of a collision, riders are more likely than motorists in passenger vehicles to be seriously injured or killed in an accident. Unfortunately, some insurance companies take advantage of this fact by offering motorcycle accident victims less money than they deserve or denying their claims outright.
There are several tactics that insurance companies use to reduce the compensation they have to pay out to motorcycle accident victims. Some of the most common include:
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Offering a Low Initial Settlement
Insurance companies know motorcycle accident victims often desperately need money to cover their medical bills and other expenses. As a result, they may offer a low initial settlement in the hopes that the victim will accept it and go away. It is important to remember that insurance companies are not looking out for your best interests, and you should never accept a settlement without first consulting with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer.
If you think that the insurance company is trying to lowball you, you should get in touch with a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. They will be able to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and help you get the full amount of compensation you deserve.
Delaying Payment
Delaying payment of a motorcycle accident claim can be highly frustrating for victims already dealing with the stress of their injuries. If the insurance company is dragging its feet, it may be helpful to hire a lawyer to help expedite the process.
In most cases, insurance companies are required to investigate motorcycle accident claims within a certain period. If they do not, they may be considered to have acted in bad faith, which could entitle the victim to additional compensation.
Denying the Claim Altogether
In some cases, insurance companies will outright deny a motorcycle accident claim. This could be incredibly frustrating if the victim were not at fault for the accident. If your claim has been denied, you should consult a lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options. By delaying, you may miss important deadlines that could impact your ability to obtain compensation.
Falsifying Police Reports
In some cases, insurance companies will attempt to obtain a copy of the police report from the motorcycle accident and then change it to suit their needs. This can be extremely difficult to catch, but an experienced lawyer will know what to look for.
If the police records have been altered, the insurance company’s liability in the accident could be impacted. As a result, it is essential to have an attorney review any police reports before you accept a settlement from the insurance company.
Motorcycle accident victims often have difficulty obtaining full and fair compensation from insurance companies. If you have been in an accident, it is essential to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who can protect your rights and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
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