Motorcyclists often face different treatment from insurance companies compared to other drivers. After a motorcycle accident in California, filing an insurance claim may feel more difficult than it should.
This difference can affect how quickly your claim moves forward and how much compensation you receive.
Insurance companies may show bias against motorcycles
Motorcyclists sometimes face unfair stereotypes. Some insurers may assume that riders take more risks or act recklessly, even if the accident clearly shows the other driver was at fault. These assumptions can lead to delays in processing the claim, lower settlement offers or more requests for evidence to support the claim.
California follows a comparative negligence system. This means each person involved in an accident can receive a percentage of fault. Even if the motorcyclist did not cause the crash, the insurer may argue that the rider’s actions contributed to the incident. For example, if the rider was not wearing high-visibility gear or was speeding slightly, the insurance company might reduce the payout based on partial fault. This can happen more often with motorcycles than with other vehicles.
Insurance companies may overlook the value of motorcycles
Another differentiating factor in motorcycle accidents involves how insurers view property damage. Motorcycles usually cost less to repair or replace than cars, but parts and customizations may raise the value. Insurers may not include all of this in their first offer, so the rider may need to prove the actual cost of the damage.
To improve the chance of fair treatment, motorcyclists should gather strong evidence. This includes photos of the scene, statements from witnesses, police reports and all relevant medical records. Staying organized and detailed helps push back against unfair assumptions.