Motorbike accident claims for non-fault riders
Your bike, your kit and your injuries: help for riders after an accident that wasn't their fault.
If another road user caused your motorbike accident, you can usually claim from their insurer for your bike repairs or its value if written off, a replacement bike, damaged helmet and kit, and your other costs. Motorcyclists aren't covered by the 2021 whiplash reforms, and injury claims are handled by solicitors at NJS Law.
Key things riders should know
Motorbike claims work a little differently.
By the whiplash reforms
Riders are treated as vulnerable road users, so the 2021 whiplash rules and Official Injury Claim service don't apply.
Replace after an impact
Most manufacturers advise replacing a helmet after any impact. The cost can usually be claimed.
Injury time limit
Usually three years from the accident to start an injury claim, so it's best not to wait.
Riding without a helmet is against the law for most riders and could reduce any injury compensation.
Common motorbike accidents
The situations riders tell us about most often.
Junction pull-outs
A driver pulls out of a side road, saying they didn't see you.
Turns across your path
A car turns right or does a U-turn in front of you.
Lane changes
A driver moves into your lane without checking their mirrors or blind spot.
Opening car doors
A door is opened into your path in slow traffic or by parked cars.
Rear-end shunts
Hit from behind at lights, junctions or in queuing traffic.
Filtering accidents
A vehicle changes lane or turns while you're filtering. Evidence really matters here.
What to do after a motorbike accident
If you're able to, these steps will help protect your claim.
- 01
Get to safety
Move off the road if you can and get medical help. Adrenaline can hide injuries.
- 02
Swap details
The driver's name, address, registration and insurer.
- 03
Keep your kit
Don't throw away a damaged helmet or clothing. They're evidence and part of your claim.
- 04
Save your footage
Photograph the scene and keep any helmet camera or dashcam footage.
What helps a motorbike accident claim?
Keep anything that shows what happened and what it cost you.
Keep your damaged kit until your claim is settled.
- The other driver's details and registration
- Helmet camera or dashcam footage
- Photos of your bike, kit and the scene
- Receipts or proof of value for your kit
- Witness names and phone numbers
- A police reference number, if police attended
Knocked off your bike by another driver?
Tell us what happened and we'll explain how we can help with your bike, your kit and your injuries.
Every claim is different. Repairs and replacement vehicles are provided by independent companies we work with, and we'll tell you about any arrangement with them before you agree to anything.