Many motorcycle riders have experienced bias at some point simply because they choose to ride a motorcycle. The media has long depicted motorcycle riders as reckless law breakers, and now many people believe it to be true without even considering the evidence after a crash.

In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, receiving fair treatment from insurers, law enforcement, and the judicial system is crucial for getting the compensation you’re entitled to. Unfortunately, insurance companies try to leverage the unfair stereotype of motorcycle riders to pay out as little as possible when riders are injured in crashes caused by other road users.

The experienced attorneys at Great West Injury Law understand the effects of stereotypes on a motorcycle rider’s case and can work with you to ensure your outcome is based only on the facts. Our lawyers can present your claim effectively, negotiate on your behalf, and file a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to meet your compensation needs.

Why Is There Bias Against Motorcycle Riders?

Recognizing how biases form and combating them with the help of a personal injury attorney can maximize your chances of recovering full compensation for your injuries. Negative biases regarding motorcycle riders come from the following:

  • Association With Undesirable Groups

Motorcycle riders are 29 times more likely to die in crashes than car drivers and passengers. This is because motorcycles don’t have the safety features that cars have and riders aren’t as protected. Unfortunately, the high number of deaths causes people to assume it’s because these riders were acting recklessly.

Furthermore, given the well-known association of some motorcycle riders with unsavory groups like Hell’s Angels or The Outlaws, a bias can be seen in how the police, the media, and the general public treat motorcycle riders.

  • Media Portrayal

The media perpetuates unfavorable motorcycle riders, often portraying riders as criminals or outlaws. On the other hand, motorcycles are often glorified in the media and film as symbols of rebellion and freedom. This symbolism can seem threatening to those who prefer order and conformity in their lives.

Why Is it Important to Get a Motorcycle Attorney?

When you are involved in a motorcycle accident, the first step should be to seek medical attention for your injuries. After receiving appropriate medical care, contact a motorcycle attorney and learn your legal options.

Insurance providers are aware of the bias against motorcycle riders and can attempt to use it against an accident victim. An insurance company might offer a fair settlement to a car accident victim but refuse a motorcycle rider the same treatment. Instead, they may take their chances in going to trial in the hopes of a biased jury siding against the rider. Here’s how getting an attorney can help:

  • Building a Strong Case

Your motorcycle attorney can investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim. This process includes talking to witnesses, reviewing police reports, photographing the scene of the accident, and even reconstructing the accident. They can also gather character witness testimony to counteract any attempt by another party to make you look rebellious or irresponsible for driving a motorcycle.

By building a solid case, a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can reduce or eliminate the effects of any bias held by other parties that can influence the outcome.

  • Getting Help from Someone That Knows How the System Works

Our Utah motorcycle attorneys know the state motorcycle laws forward and back. These laws govern issues like insurance coverage, liability, and damages. An attorney can help you navigate these complex statutes and ensure your rights are protected.

A motorcycle accident lawyer can also advise you on what’s a fair insurance settlement, so you don’t end up accepting a lowball offer and have to pay for a portion of your damages out-of-pocket.

  • Recovering Compensation

An experienced motorcycle attorney can ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. If the other driver was at fault, they should be held responsible for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Without an attorney, the insurance company or the other driver may take advantage of you.

As a motorcycle accident victim, you may be able to recover damages for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning ability
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anxiety
  • Disfigurement

Why Is it Important to Get a Motorcycle Attorney?

Don’t let social bias get in the way of seeking the monetary compensation you need for getting back to a normal life. If you have suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident with a negligent driver, don’t try to handle it on your own.

Contact Great West Injury Law’s Utah motorcycle accident lawyers for a free, no-obligation consultation. We can carefully examine your case and pursue a claim on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t have to pay a cent unless we win for you.

Call us or reach out through our online contact form so we can stand up for your rights as a responsible motorcycle rider and help you get the settlement you deserve.