Frequently Asked Questions about Ohio Motorcycle Accident Law

Question: What damages am I entitled to collect in my Ohio motorcycle accident case?

Answer: Under Ohio law, there are several elements that make up a claim in a motorcycle accident case.  A motorcycle accident victim is entitled to recover money for medical bills and lost wages.  Motorcycle accident victims are also entitled to recover money damages for pain and suffering and/or loss of enjoyment of life.  These damages are called non-economic damages. 

Question: What if I didn’t have valid insurance on my motorcycle when the motorcycle accident occurred?

Answer: Under Ohio law, you may still bring a claim even if you did not have insurance on your bike.  Driving uninsured, while it is against the law, does not bar your claim for damages.

Question: What if the police say that I was at fault in the Ohio motorcycle accident?  Can I still recover damages?

Answer: Yes.  Ohio law incorporates the legal doctrine of comparative negligence.  Ohio’s application of this doctrine permits a negligent motorcycle accident victim to recover if his or her negligence is not greater than the defendant.  It is strongly recommended that you check with our Ohio personal injury attorneys about the percentage of fault that is likely to be attributed to you in the motorcycle accident.

Question: What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Answer: Uninsured Motorist Coverage is an insurance coverage option that may allow you to recover damages from your own insurance policy, when an at-fault driver did not have insurance or cannot be identified (i.e. hit and run driver). It is a wise idea to carry uninsured coverage, to protect yourself in case you are in this situation.

Question: Is there a difference between uninsured motorist coverage and underinsured motorist coverage?
Answer: Yes. Underinsured coverage provides an additional means of collecting damages, if you are seriously injured in an accident.  It is different than uninsured coverage, which is available when there was no identifiable insurance on an at-fault vehicle.

Question: The driver who caused the accident did not have insurance.  I did not carry uninsured motorist coverage on my motorcycle, but have it in my car insurance policy.  Can I make a claim through my automobile insurance?
Answer:  Maybe.  Your eligibility for uninsured coverage may depend on the specific wording of your auto insurance policy.  You should contact an Ohio motorcycle accident lawyer for help determining what your insurance policy covers.

If you or a loved one was seriously injured in an Ohio motorcycle accident, talk with a dedicated Ohio motorcycle accident lawyer.  Please submit a simple, free and confidential legal consultation form now.

Take advantage of the Bernstein Approach today.  Protect your legal rights.