As our Raleigh, NC motorcycle accident lawyer can confirm, motorcycle riders often face more than just physical injuries after an accident. They also encounter a challenge that isn’t as visible but can significantly affect their financial recovery: insurance company bias. Whether intentional or not, many insurance adjusters carry stereotypes about motorcyclists that can lead to unfair settlements. Understanding how this bias works—and how to respond—can help you protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Why Bias Against Motorcyclists Exists
Unfortunately, riders are often portrayed as reckless or thrill-seeking. Movies, television, and even casual conversations sometimes depict motorcyclists as risk-takers who speed or weave through traffic. Insurance adjusters may not openly admit it, but these cultural stereotypes can influence how they view a claim.
If an adjuster believes you were more likely to cause the crash simply because you were on a motorcycle, they might try to reduce your payout by arguing you were partially at fault—even when evidence shows otherwise.
Tactics Insurance Adjusters Use
Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts to protect their bottom line. When bias enters the picture, adjusters may:
- Question Your Riding Habits: They may ask leading questions to suggest you were speeding, lane-splitting, or ignoring traffic laws.
- Scrutinize Protective Gear: If you weren’t wearing a helmet or certain protective clothing, they might claim you contributed to your injuries, even if it had no bearing on the cause of the accident.
- Undervalue Damages: Adjusters sometimes downplay the severity of injuries or the cost of future medical care, assuming riders accept more risk.
- Pressure for Quick Settlements: By offering a low initial settlement, they hope you’ll accept before consulting a lawyer or understanding the true value of your claim.
Recognizing these tactics is the first step toward countering them.
How To Protect Yourself
1. Gather Strong Evidence Early
Document everything at the scene if possible: photographs of the vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries; witness contact information; and the police report. Solid evidence makes it harder for an adjuster to rely on stereotypes.
2. Avoid Recorded Statements
Insurance companies often ask for a recorded statement soon after the accident. Politely decline until you’ve spoken with a lawyer. Anything you say can be used to assign you partial fault.
3. Get Prompt Medical Attention
Seeing a doctor immediately not only protects your health but also creates a clear record of your injuries. Delays in treatment can give insurers room to argue your injuries aren’t serious or weren’t caused by the crash.
4. Keep Communication Professional
Be polite and concise when dealing with adjusters. Avoid discussing your riding history or speculating about the accident. Stick to the facts.
Why A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Is Essential
Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyer understands both the legal issues and the bias riders often face. Your lawyer can:
- Handle all communication with the insurance company, preventing adjusters from twisting your words.
- Use accident reconstruction experts and medical professionals to demonstrate the full impact of your injuries.
- Negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement or take the case to court if the insurer refuses to act reasonably.
Leveling The Playing Field
Bias doesn’t have to determine the outcome of your motorcycle accident claim. By gathering evidence, staying cautious with insurance communications, and hiring our skilled lawyer, you can overcome stereotypes and pursue the full compensation you deserve. At Burton Law Firm, we are here to help you.