Serious injuries and complicated insurance claims can arise from motorcycle accidents. Motorcyclists are more exposed to the road than drivers in enclosed vehicles, which frequently results in more serious injuries in the case of an accident. 

The cost of an injury claim may be impacted by the time away from work, prolonged rehabilitation, and intensive medical care that these injuries may necessitate.

In South Carolina, some factors are evaluated to determine the value of a motorcycle accident injury claim. 

These include the extent of the injuries, the expense of present and future medical care, the effect on the rider’s capacity to work, and the psychological and physical effects of the collision.

Factors That Influence the Value of a Motorcycle Accident Claim

Here are some factors that occur in a motorcycle accident:

• Severity and Type of Injuries

The extent of injuries sustained plays a central role in determining claim value. Serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, fractures, or amputations typically result in higher settlements due to long-term medical needs and permanent lifestyle changes.

• Medical Expenses and Projected Future Costs

All medical costs associated with the injury, including ambulance transport, emergency care, surgeries, hospitalization, physical therapy, and medications, are considered. 

If long-term care is necessary, future medical expenses will also be factored into the claim.

• Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity

When an injury forces someone to miss work, they can seek compensation for the wages they would have earned during that time. 

If the injury results in a reduced ability to work in the future, lost earning potential may also be included in the valuation.

• Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering refer to the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the accident. 

These damages are more subjective and vary based on how the injury has impacted a person’s daily life.

• Fault and South Carolina’s Comparative Negligence Rules

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if the injured motorcyclist is found to be less than 51% at fault for the accident, they can still recover compensation, but their award will be reduced in proportion to their level of fault.

• Insurance Coverage and Policy Limits

The insurance coverage of the at-fault party often limits the amount that can be recovered. If the at-fault driver has low coverage or no insurance, the injured party may need to rely on their own uninsured/underinsured motorist policy.

Average Motorcycle Accident Settlement Amounts in South Carolina

Settlement amounts in motorcycle accident claims can vary widely based on the details of each case. For general reference, accident settlements in South Carolina tend to follow this range:

• Minor injuries: around $10,000–$25,000

• Moderate injuries: approximately $25,000–$100,000

• Severe or permanent injuries: can exceed $500,000 or more

Motorcycle claims are often on the higher end of the spectrum due to the lack of physical protection riders have, which can lead to more serious injuries compared to other types of motor vehicle accidents.

Thus, you need a valuable personal injury lawyer so you don’t have to go through this incident alone.

Examples of Past Settlements in South Carolina

Real case examples illustrate how claim values can vary:

• A motorcyclist struck by a driver who failed to yield recovered over $1 million for severe leg injuries and ongoing rehabilitation.

• A crash involving a pickup truck resulted in a $4 million settlement due to catastrophic spinal injuries and long-term disability.

• A couple injured at an intersection due to a malfunctioning traffic signal was awarded over $1 million after taking action against a government agency.

These examples show how factors like medical costs, fault, and long-term impact influence settlement outcomes.

How Pain and Suffering Are Calculated

Two common methods are used to estimate pain and suffering in a motorcycle accident claim:

• Multiplier Method

This involves multiplying the total economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, etc.) by a number, typically between 1.5 and 5, based on the severity of the injury.

• Per Diem Method

A daily dollar amount is assigned to the victim’s suffering, which is then multiplied by the number of days they experience pain or disruption in their life.

These methods are guidelines and may be adjusted depending on the unique circumstances of each case.

Why Legal Representation Matters

The claims process involves gathering evidence, evaluating damages, and negotiating with insurance companies. Legal professionals can assist by identifying liable parties, working with medical and vocational experts, and ensuring all available forms of compensation are considered. This can help claimants avoid accepting a settlement that undervalues their losses.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, understanding the value of your claim is essential to securing the compensation you deserve. Contact Max Hyde Law Firm today at (864) 804-6330 to schedule a free consultation. We can help you navigate the claims process and pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.