Motorcyclists often face unfair biases and stereotypes when dealing with insurance companies. Frequently seen as risk-takers or rebellious, these preconceived notions can impact how insurers handle claims and settlements, leading to unjust outcomes for riders involved in accidents.

Explore the typical stereotypes that motorcyclists encounter, how these perceptions affect insurance claims, and what steps motorcyclists can take to ensure fair treatment.

Common Stereotypes and Biases Against Motorcyclists

Insurance companies often stereotype motorcyclists, perceiving them as more reckless or unsafe than drivers of passenger vehicles. Some of the most prevalent biases include:

  • Reckless Behavior: The public often sees motorcyclists as thrill-seekers who engage in dangerous behavior on the road. This stereotype suggests that motorcyclists speed, weave through traffic, or perform risky maneuvers more often, increasing their likelihood of being involved in accidents.
  • Increased Risk: Insurance companies often view motorcyclists as high risk. Motorcycles offer less protection than cars, making riders more vulnerable to severe injuries in the event of an accident. This perception leads to the assumption that motorcyclists file more claims, especially for serious injuries.
  • Blame Bias: When a motorcyclist is involved in an accident, many adjusters assume the rider is at fault. Insurance companies may attribute the blame to motorcyclists, even when the evidence suggests otherwise. This bias can affect the outcome of a claim, resulting in lower settlements or outright denials.

How These Perceptions Affect Claims and Settlements

The biases held by insurance companies can impact how motorcycle accident claims are handled. Stereotypes can affect the process in the following ways:

  • Lower Settlement Offers: Insurance companies may offer lower settlements due to the perception that motorcyclists have riskier behavior. They might argue that the motorcyclist shares liability with another driver, reducing compensation for medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering.
  • Increased Scrutiny: Claims involving motorcyclists may be subject to more rigorous scrutiny. Insurance adjusters look more deeply into the motorcyclist’s driving history to find evidence of reckless behavior, such as prior traffic violations, to justify a lower payout.
  • Delayed Claims Processing: Insurance companies may intentionally delay processing claims involving motorcyclists, hoping the rider will accept a lower settlement out of frustration or financial necessity. This tactic can make recovery difficult for those dealing with medical bills and lost wages due to an accident.
  • Denial of Claims: In some cases, insurance companies may deny a claim, citing the motorcyclist’s supposed recklessness or assigning blame to the rider without sufficient evidence. This could leave motorcyclists struggling to cover expenses on their own.

What the Statistics Say: The Truth Behind the Bias

Studies and statistics highlight the biases faced by motorcyclists. In 2022, motorcyclists represented 15% of all traffic facilities. However, the rider fatality rate per vehicle mile traveled was 22 times that of passenger car occupants, and they were four times more likely to suffer injuries.

Additional numbers show that the vast majority of motorcyclists practice safe driving and have an unfair perception among insurers and courts:

  • In 2022, 67% of riders wore DOT-compliant helmets.
  • 58% of motorcycle crashes occurred during the day.
  • 58% of deadly collisions involved another vehicle, 44% of which were caused by another vehicle turning left.
  • Fewer than half of motorcycle riders in fatal crashes were speeding at the time.

A  2018 study examined riders’ and car drivers’ perceptions of fault in motorcycle crashes. It found that despite car drivers frequently being at fault for crashes at intersections, they often blame motorcyclists. Although both groups admitted fault more easily when presented with specific crash details, the study highlights the initial biased reaction to motorcyclists.

Tips for Motorcyclists to Protect Their Rights

Given the biases that motorcyclists face, riders must take steps to protect their rights and ensure fair treatment in the claims process. Here’s what you can do if you’re involved in a collision:

  • Document Everything: In the event of an accident, gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and damage to your motorcycle. Collect contact information from witnesses and obtain a copy of the police report. This documentation can help dispute an insurance company’s biased assessment.
  • Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention. Medical records can serve as critical evidence in your claim and help establish the severity of your injuries.
  • Avoid Making Statements to Insurance Adjusters: Do not speak with insurance adjusters without an attorney; they may use your statements against you to reduce your settlement. Consult with a Huntsville motorcycle accident lawyer before providing statements or agreeing to a settlement.
  • Hire an Experienced Attorney: An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can advocate on your behalf, challenging any biases or unfair practices by the insurance company. They can help negotiate a fair settlement and, if necessary, take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Protect Your Rights: Consult With a Huntsville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Insurance companies’ biases against motorcyclists can have serious consequences, from lower settlement offers to outright claim denials. By understanding these biases and taking steps to protect your rights, you can better navigate the claims process and secure the compensation you’re entitled to.

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, arrange a free consultation with one of our seasoned attorneys. We protect your interests, promote fair treatment by insurers, and help you seek the compensation you deserve.