Founder and Managing Partner
While we generally focus on the possibility of a motorcycle rider being injured in an accident, it is more common for passengers to sustain more drastic injuries in such an accident. Therefore, in situations where a passenger is injured, different things need to be considered compared to the average single driver case.
As a passenger on a motorcycle, you have less control over what happens and no control over the bike itself. This puts passengers in a more vulnerable position. Because of this, motorcycle passengers deserve the utmost protection when it comes to seeking compensation for their injuries.
When riding as a passenger on the back of a motorcycle, you should take specific precautions to protect your safety. After all, there is evidence that motorcycles can be dangerous. So make sure you have the proper driving and safety gear before you consider going on a cruise.
If you and the motorcycle driver are involved in an accident, the driver will likely be liable for your injuries and damages. If you are injured while riding a motorcycle, you may be able to recover damages in a lawsuit against:
- The motorcycle driver
- The driver of the other vehicle involved, if any
- The manufacturer of the motorcycle or its parts, if a manufacturing defect caused the accident
Since motorcycle riders are often unprotected, any crash can send someone flying. Because of this, single-vehicle motorcycle accidents are quite common. If there are no other vehicles involved in the accident and nothing is defective, then the only case for a passenger is against the driver. For such a claim to proceed, the passenger must be able to prove negligence.
Proving negligence means that the plaintiff must be able to prove that the damages suffered are the responsibility of the driver. For example, the two most common reasons motorcyclists crash without another vehicle being involved are:
- The motorcyclist crashes negligently; hits something, such as a tree, a sign, or a parked car.
- The motorcycle crashed due to a mechanical defect or failure. This means the accident was out of the driver’s control.
In any case, these types of accidents can leave serious injuries. Therefore, it is advisable to obtain immediate medical assistance. It is also crucial to contact a trusted attorney who can provide legal guidance to obtain fair compensation for your injuries and damages.