A motorcycle accident can have serious consequences – physically, psychologically, and financially. Many people wonder what compensation they may be entitled to after an accident, and in particular whether it matters who was at fault. The answer may surprise many: You may be entitled to compensation even if you caused the accident yourself.
On this page, you will find a clear overview of what you may be entitled to after a motorcycle accident, and how fault and insurance are handled.
What types of compensation can you receive after a motorcycle accident?
If you are involved in a motorcycle crash and suffer injuries, you may be entitled to several types of compensation. These are the most common:
1. Incurred and future expenses
You may claim compensation for expenses incurred as a result of the accident, such as:
- Treatment costs (doctor, physiotherapy, specialists)
- Transport to and from treatment
- Assistive devices
- Adaptation of housing or vehicle (in the case of serious injury)
2. Loss of income
If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you are entitled to compensation for loss of income – both what you have already lost and what you are expected to lose in the future.
3. Non‑economic damages
If you have suffered a permanent medical injury, you may be entitled to non‑economic damages. This is compensation for reduced quality of life, regardless of whether you have suffered a financial loss.
4. Compensation for pain and suffering
If another party has acted with gross negligence or intent, you may claim compensation for pain and suffering. This may apply, for example, if the accident was caused by a motorist running a red light or driving under the influence.
5. Legal assistance
The insurance company covers reasonable and necessary legal costs.
What if I was responsible for the accident myself?
This is an important question – and the short answer is:
You may still be entitled to compensation, even if you caused the accident yourself.
If the cause of the accident is something you are responsible for – for example, if you were speeding – your compensation may be reduced. This is known as a deduction. The extent of the reduction depends on the cause of the accident. Speeding usually results in a smaller reduction than driving under the influence.
The size of the reduction can often be difficult to determine. We recommend contacting a solicitor with extensive experience in compensation law whenever a reduction is being considered.
What if someone else was at fault?
If another road user was responsible for the accident, you may claim compensation from that person’s liability insurance – whether you were the rider, a passenger, or a pedestrian. We can help you identify the correct insurance company.
Passengers are always entitled to compensation
If you were a passenger on a motorcycle, you are generally entitled to compensation regardless of who was at fault. You may claim compensation from the rider’s liability insurance or from the opposing party’s insurance company.
What should you do after a motorcycle accident?
- Seek medical attention promptly – ensure the injury is documented.
- Notify the insurance company – both yours and, if applicable, the other party’s.
- Document expenses and loss of income – keep all receipts and paperwork.
- Seek legal assistance in the event of serious injury – particularly if you have lasting symptoms or significant financial loss.
Summary
- You may be entitled to compensation even if you caused the motorcycle accident yourself, depending on your insurance cover.
- You are entitled to compensation from the other party’s liability insurance if someone else was at fault.
- Passengers are generally entitled to compensation regardless of fault.
- You may receive compensation for treatment costs, loss of income, and non‑economic damages in the event of permanent injuries.
Obtaining the correct compensation can be complex, so do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions.
