Maximizing Your Motorcycle Accident Settlement
A motorcycle accident can leave victims with serious, permanent injuries that can impact quality of life and their ability to work. At Chanfrau & Chanfrau, our motorcycle accident lawyers help motorcyclists get the maximum settlement for their injuries and other damages, including medical expenses and lost wages.
Because every accident is different, settlements will vary based on the unique factors of each case. Today, we'll take a closer look at how some of these factors affect motorcycle accident settlements in Daytona Beach, FL, and Palm Coast, FL.
What's Included in a Settlement?
Whether negotiating a settlement with an insurance company or through a personal injury trial, victims of motorcycle accidents may seek to obtain compensation for their injuries and other damages. Some types of damages that may be included in a motorcycle accident settlement include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Future lost earnings
- Property damage for motorcycle repairs or total loss
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
How Are Settlement Amounts Determined?
Settlements for motorcycle accidents are determined on a case-by-case basis with no universal formula for deciding how much an injured party is paid. The amount someone receives in a settlement will vary based on the details of the accident and how well the claim is presented.
Although every motorcycle accident and related injuries are different, there are several factors that are typically considered when negotiating an accident settlement. The following are some of these factors.
Liability
Liability refers to who is at fault for an accident and is one of the biggest factors in determining how much an injured party will receive.
Typically, the person who is liable for the accident will be responsible for paying damages (usually through auto insurance), but sometimes both parties involved in an accident may be found equally at fault or at fault in varying degrees. If the injured motorcyclist is also partially at fault, the settlement will be lower to reflect the liability.
Damages
Damages are related to injuries and losses that occurred or are expected to occur due to an accident; these factors affect the amount a settlement.
The more severe the damages are, the higher a settlement may be. However, liability comes into play and a settlement for serious injuries may not be as high if the person who suffered serious injuries was also primarily at fault for the accident.
Getting the Maximum Settlement
When injured in a motorcycle accident, it's important consult an attorney. A motorcycle accident attorney can help prove liability and increase your settlement.
Often, insurance companies and defense attorneys will try to settle for as little as possible. Having an attorney on your side can help you get the highest compensation for your injuries and other damages.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident and live in or around Daytona Beach, the attorneys of Chanfrau & Chanfrau are standing by to help negotiate a fair settlement for your pain and suffering. If you would like to schedule a consultation, please call (866) 610-0653 to speak with our staff.