The recent tragic death of motorcyclist, Gary Carswell, during the Jurby practice race on the Isle of Man should serve as a salutary reminder of the risks of taking to two wheels.
Whilst there can be little doubt that riding a motorcycle can be thrilling and exhilarating, it can also be extremely dangerous. It doesn’t matter how competent and proficient a motorcyclist might be, they are none the less more vulnerable than other road users. All it takes is one moment of carelessness from another road user for tragic consequences to ensue. So we would urge every road user to take extra care now the weather is getting better and we’re seeing more motorcyclists on our roads.
Forget the old adage and from now on apply this new one – think thrice; think bike.
We’re fast approaching that time of year when the weather takes a turn for the better. The sun starts to shine and the days get longer: well, that’s the theory at least, it’s just that the weather isn’t necessarily playing ball yet. It’s at this time of the year that many avid motorcycle fans get their bikes out of the garage and make preparations for the months ahead. There’s no feeling that can replicate riding a motor bike: it gives riders an un-paralleled sense of freedom. However, whilst riding a motor cycle can be a thrilling experience, it’s not without its risks sadly, as many bikers have found to their cost.
Road users should remember that motorcycle riders are particularly vulnerable to accidents. The threat, however, doesn’t just come from other careless road users: road defects and untreated potholes in the road surface can also cause of serious injury. Because motorcyclists do not have the protection afforded to car users, they are particularly susceptible to serious injury. It’s no surprise, therefore, that in the past 40 years over 100,000 motorcyclists have been killed on Britain’s roads. Whilst motorcyclists currently only account for less than 1 per cent of the total traffic on our roads, they disproportionately suffer 19% of all road traffic deaths and serious injuries. Did you know that the chances of being killed or seriously injured on a motor cycle are 42 times higher than if you were a passenger in a car.
Whilst it may be scant comfort to anyone involved in a motorcycles accident, they may be entitled to make a personal injury compensation claim for both personal injuries and loss of earnings. If you’ve been in this unfortunate position and are considering making a claim then you’ll need the help of a reputable and professional personal injury compensation claims specialist. Harold Stock & Co Solicitors has extensive experience in motorcycle accident compensation claims, and has successfully helped many of our clients secure significant amounts of compensation following road traffic accidents. From minor cuts and bruising to accidents of a catastrophic nature, our personal injury solicitors will ensure you receive the maximum amount of motorcycle accident compensation. We are able to offer you a one-stop shop to assist you in making a motorcycle accident compensation claim for your injuries and loss of earnings, as well as getting you back up and running.
What can be claimed for?
The two main areas of personal injury compensation are general damages and special damages.
General damages principally consist of compensation awarded for the injury itself, including the pain and suffering caused by the motorcycle accident, and special damages relating to both past losses and potential future losses.
Past losses may include loss of earnings, any mileage costs, the cost of medical treatment, personal possessions damaged in the accident, such as leathers and crash helmet, and the excess on a motorcycle insurance policy. Future losses consider the anticipated losses and expenses that you will incur in the future as a consequence of your motorcycle accident, including any loss of future earnings and the cost of any on-going medical care that may be needed if you have suffered more serious personal injuries.
If you are looking for empathy, understanding and success in your claim, then Harold Stock should be your first port of call. We understand the motorcyclists’ requirement to become mobile as soon as possible after an accident. We therefore have put the facilities in place to arrange for a replacement vehicle whilst we arrange for your vehicle to be repaired or inspected.
To speak to us about making a motorcycle accident compensation claim call Harold Stock & Co Solicitors on 01457 835597 or email info@haroldstock.com.
