Motorcycle and bicycle accidents can result in devastating injuries. For injured bikers, the road to recovery often includes not just medical treatment but also navigating complex insurance claims. If you’re an injured biker in California, it’s important to understand your rights and how the claims process works, because what you do immediately after the accident can make or break your case.
At KAASS LAW, we represent injured bikers who have been hurt due to the negligence of others. Our experienced personal injury attorneys help clients pursue the compensation they deserve, whether through insurance negotiations or litigation.
Why Insurance Claims Matter for Injured Bikers
After an accident, filing an insurance claim is often the first step toward financial recovery. Medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering can add up quickly. If the other party is at fault, their insurance company may be responsible for covering your damages.
However, insurance companies are not always eager to pay. That’s why injured bikers need to understand how to file a strong claim, what evidence is needed, and what tactics to watch out for.
What to Do Immediately After a Bike Crash
Whether you were on a motorcycle or a bicycle, your first priority should be your safety. Once immediate medical needs are addressed, take the following steps:
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Call the police and file an official report.
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Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, the vehicles or bike, and the surrounding area.
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Exchange contact and insurance information with the other party involved.
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Gather witness information, including names and phone numbers.
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Seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel injured right away.
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Notify your own insurance company as soon as possible.
These actions will help support your insurance claim and create a clear record of what happened.
How Insurance Companies Evaluate Claims from Injured Bikers
Insurance adjusters will assess your claim based on several key factors:
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The police report and official documentation
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Medical records and bills
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Statements from witnesses
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The level of property damage
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Your own statement about the incident
Although this process may seem straightforward, adjusters often try to minimize your compensation. They may argue that you were partially at fault or that your injuries are less serious than claimed. This is why injured bikers should avoid giving recorded statements without first consulting an attorney.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Filing a Claim
When it comes to dealing with insurance companies, what you don’t know can hurt you. Injured bikers should be cautious of the following missteps:
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Admitting fault, even casually
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Delaying medical care, which may appear as if the injury is not serious
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Settling too early, before you know the full extent of your injuries
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Not keeping records, including photos, receipts, and appointment summaries
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Relying on the insurance company to act in your best interest
These common mistakes can significantly reduce your potential compensation or result in a denied claim.
What Compensation Can Injured Bikers Recover?
Depending on the nature of the accident and the severity of your injuries, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:
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Emergency medical expenses and ongoing treatment
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Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
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Pain and suffering
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Property damage to your bike or gear
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Emotional distress
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Loss of enjoyment of life
In certain cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the at-fault party acted with extreme recklessness or malice.
Filing a Claim with Uninsured or Underinsured Motorists
California law requires drivers to carry liability insurance, but not all do. If the person who caused your crash lacks adequate coverage, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may come into play. This type of claim is often complex and may still involve disputes over the value of your injuries.
KAASS LAW helps clients navigate these challenging claims and ensures their own insurance companies don’t shortchange them.
When Should You Contact a Personal Injury Attorney?
While it’s possible to file a claim without legal help, doing so can be risky. Injured bikers face serious medical and financial consequences after an accident, and insurance companies have teams of professionals working to protect their interests, not yours.
At KAASS LAW, our personal injury attorneys will:
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Investigate the accident thoroughly
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Collect all relevant medical and crash evidence
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Deal with the insurance company on your behalf
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Negotiate a full and fair settlement
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Go to trial if necessary
Learn more about our services on our Personal Injury Practice Area page.
Statute of Limitations in California for Bikers
In California, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. However, if the injury involves a government entity—such as a defective road or city vehicle—you may only have six months to file a notice of claim.
Acting quickly helps preserve your rights and ensures you don’t miss critical legal deadlines.
Helpful Resource for Injured Bikers
For more guidance on cycling and motorcycling safety, injury prevention, and legal rights, visit:
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – Bicycle Safety
This site includes safety tips, data, and federal resources for both cyclists and motorists.
Injured Bikers Deserve Strong Legal Representation
Recovering after a bike accident can be a long and painful process. Medical bills, emotional stress, and insurance hassles only add to the burden. Fortunately, you don’t have to face it alone.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, contact KAASS LAW for a free consultation. Our team is ready to stand up for injured bikers and ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
KAASS LAW – Protecting California’s injured bikers, one case at a time.