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According to the Department of Transport, 29,000 serious injuries and 3,200 deaths occur on Britain’s roads each year and over 24,824 non-fault bike accidents occurred in 2005 (Department for Transport).
The Motorbike industry in the UK attracts thousands of riders who enjoy the independence and freedom of taking to the open road on two wheels. Being a biker allows you to have a driving experience that is far removed from that of car drivers, beating the queues and nipping through the traffic. But no matter how aware you are of other road users, unfortunately there are others who are not so considerate. The casualty rate for motorcyclists is higher than any other road user and nearly two thirds of all motorcycle accidents are caused by other road vehicles. As the number of bikers in the UK rise, so do the number of people that will need to pursue compensation for injuries.
Examples of typical accident scenarios include:
Whilst overtaking a line of stationary traffic, a vehicle pulled out from a side road into the path of the motorcyclist.
Whilst travelling around a roundabout, a car pulled out and collided with the rear of the motorcycle.
Whilst travelling along the fast lane of a motorway, a car pulled out into the path of the motorbike.
Pillion passenger compensation
As a pillion passenger, you are entitled to claim compensation if you have been involved in an accident where another road user was at fault. This may be another road user or the rider of the bike on which you were a passenger.
If you have any concerns about making a claim against your friend, bear in mind that it is the insurance company that pay your compensation, not your friend personally. Also, if the rider’s bike has been damaged in the accident, your friend may also be making a claim through his insurance company for necessary repairs. If this is the case, any personal injury claim made by you will be classed as part of the same claim.
You can claim for:
Pain and inconvenience of injury.
Loss of income during the time you are unable to work.
Cost of further treatment i.e. medical checks, physiotherapy, osteopathy etc
Psychological therapy.
Extra travel costs and expenses resulting from injuries for example damage to your helmet, your leathers or clothing.
If your vehicle has been badly damaged in an accident, we can help you claim for:
Loss of the vehicle.
Hire charges for replacement vehicles.
If you have been involved in a motorbike accident that wasn’t your fault, you are legally entitled to financial compensation.
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