Recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that motorcycle accidents resulted in $16.9 billion in economic consequences and $107.1 billion in societal harm. However, the average settlement for a motorcycle accident lawsuit can vary widely depending on numerous factors, including the specific circumstances of the accident, the severity of injuries, insurance coverage, and the jurisdiction where litigation will occur. While there is no fixed or universal amount for motorcycle accident settlements, examples of settlements can highlight the factors in securing compensation after motorcycle accident claims.
Factors that Impact the Average Settlement for a Motorcycle Accident
Riders must understand the many factors that can influence a motorcycle settlement claim. These factors include:
- Liability. Determining who is at fault in the accident is crucial. If the rider is partially or entirely responsible for the accident, their settlement may be reduced or denied.
- Severity of injuries. The severity and extent of the rider’s injuries play a significant role in the settlement amount. More severe injuries often lead to higher settlements due to increased medical costs and long-term consequences.
- Property damage. The extent of damage to the motorcycle and any personal property can affect the settlement. The cost of repairing or replacing a motorcycle is a factor.
- Lost wages. If the rider cannot work due to their injuries, lost wages and future earning potential will be considered in the settlement.
- Insurance Coverage. The insurance policies of both the rider and the at-fault party can influence the settlement. Policy limits and coverage types can determine how much compensation is available.
- Evidence. Substantial evidence, including police reports, witness statements, photos, and medical records, can strengthen a rider’s claim and increase their chances of a favorable settlement.
- Legal Representation. An experienced attorney can negotiate on the rider’s behalf, ensuring they receive a fair settlement. Similarly, the attorney’s negotiation skills can impact settlement amounts with the insurance company.
Riders should be aware of these factors and seek attorney assistance to navigate the process effectively, ensuring they receive a fair settlement covering their losses and expenses following a motorcycle accident.
Common Motorcycle Accident Settlement Examples
Motorcycle accident settlement examples can help provide insight into the potential compensation riders may receive after being involved in accidents. These examples vary widely based on the specific circumstances of each case.
Low-Speed Collision with Minor Injuries
In a scenario where a Nevada motorcyclist is involved in a low-speed collision with a car and sustains minor injuries, the settlement amount might be relatively modest. For instance, if the motorcyclist incurs a few thousand dollars in medical bills and some minor property damage to the motorcycle, the settlement may range from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on liability considerations and insurance coverage.
High-Speed Accident with Severe Injuries
On the other end of the spectrum, a high-speed motorcycle accident resulting in severe injuries can lead to significantly higher settlements. If the rider experiences a traumatic brain injury or multiple fractures and requires extensive medical treatment, including surgeries and long-term rehabilitation, the settlement could reach hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. The amount accounts for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and ongoing care needs.
Motorcycle accidents involving multiple vehicles can complicate liability issues. Suppose a rider has a multi-vehicle collision where several parties share fault. In that case, Nevada’s modified comparative negligence laws will influence the settlement. If the rider is 20% at fault, their compensation is reduced by that percentage. A settlement in this scenario still varies widely based on injuries and other factors.
Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Accident
When a motorcyclist is involved in a hit-and-run accident, where the at-fault driver flees the scene, settlement options may be affected by the rider’s uninsured motorist coverage. If the rider has this coverage, their own insurance company may step in to compensate them for injuries and property damage. In such cases, settlements can range from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on policy limits and the extent of damages.
Negotiated Settlement vs. Trial Verdict
Settlement amounts can also differ based on whether the case goes to trial or is resolved through negotiations. Trials can be lengthy and costly, and jury verdicts may be unpredictable. Often, parties prefer to settle out of court to avoid these uncertainties. Negotiated settlements tend to fall within a specific range agreed upon by both parties, while trial verdicts can vary significantly.
It’s crucial to understand that these examples are generalizations, and each motorcycle accident case is unique. The specific circumstances, liability, insurance coverage, and the experience of legal representation all play pivotal roles in determining the final settlement amount. Riders involved in motorcycle accidents should seek the advice of experienced motorcycle attorneys who can assess their cases and pursue the best possible outcome.
Speak with a Knowledgeable Nevada Motorcycle Accident Injury Lawyer to Learn More About Your Options
If you sustained an injury in a Nevada motorcycle accident, it is essential to take some time to fully understand your right to pursue a claim against the at-fault party. At Friedman Injury Law, we’ve assembled a dedicated team of motorcycle accident attorneys committed to helping you seek justice for what you’ve been through. We take pride in offering each of our many clients individualized representation based on their priorities. We’re here to help you understand your options, and if you choose to bring us on board, we won’t bill you unless we can collect compensation for you. We have recovered more than $35 million on behalf of our clients in the past four years alone, and look forward to seeing what we can do to assist with your case. Call to learn more and to schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers today. You can also reach us through our secure online contact form.
Blake S. Friedman, Esq. is a personal injury lawyer helping those in Las Vegas, Nevada. Blake was born and raised right here in Las Vegas, Nevada. He grew up watching his father, a battle-hardened lawyer, fight for his clients’ justice in the Clark County court system.