Motorcycle accidents in New Brunswick tend to be some of the most serious accidents we see and not because riders are reckless, but because they are exposed.
Unlike drivers of passenger vehicles, motorcyclists don’t have the protection of steel frames, airbags, or crumple zones. When a crash happens, the injuries are often significant: fractures, head injuries, spinal injuries, and long-term disability.
From a legal perspective, motorcycle accident claims raise a few key issues.
Read more below if you were injured in a motorcycle accident:
Fault is Often Misunderstood
There is a persistent bias that motorcyclists are inherently risky. In reality, many motorcycle collisions occur because other drivers fail to see them, particularly at intersections or during lane changes. Determining fault in a motorcycle accident may require a careful review of witness statements, accident reconstruction, and, increasingly, dash cam footage.
Injury Severity Impacts Compensation
Because injuries are often more severe, motorcycle accident claims in New Brunswick frequently involve higher damages. This includes compensation for pain and suffering, income loss, future care costs, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Protective Gear and Contributory Negligence
A common question is whether failing to wear proper protective gear (beyond a legally required helmet) affects compensation. While it can be raised by insurers, it does not automatically reduce a claim. The analysis is fact-specific and tied to whether the lack of gear actually contributed to the injury.
Insurance Coverage Matters
New Brunswick operates under a fault-based insurance system. This means the at-fault driver’s insurer is typically responsible for paying damages. However, issues like uninsured motorists or insufficient coverage can complicate recovery.
The Takeaway
Motorcycle accident claims are not just “car accident claims with bikes,” they require a nuanced approach. For injured riders, the goal is rarely just compensation. It’s about restoring stability, accessing treatment, and moving forward after a life-altering event.
Correia & Collins represents motorcycle accident victims. Contact us by phone at 506-648-1700 or online for advice. Your first consultation is free.
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Since 2016, I’ve had the privilege of working for Correia & Collins. First as a student, then as an articled clerk, and now as a lawyer. I have found great pride in problem-solving for clients and guiding them through complex legal problems to achieve the best possible outcomes. Through this experience, I know the importance of having an effective lawyer.