Riding a motorcycle brings a sense of freedom few other experiences can match. The wind in your face, the hum of the engine beneath you; but that very openness that makes riding so exhilarating is also what makes it so dangerous. There’s little between your body and the road, and when things go wrong, they often go very wrong.
Even the most cautious riders can be hit by a distracted driver, cut off at an intersection, or struck by someone who never even looked twice. And when that happens, one frustrating factor often enters the courtroom: bias. Too often, motorcyclists are unfairly judged as reckless or irresponsible just for choosing two wheels over four. This prejudice can affect everything from police reports to insurance negotiations, and even how a jury sees your case.
How bias impacts motorcycle accident claims
When a motorcycle accident occurs, one of the first hurdles riders may face isn’t just proving what happened, it’s overcoming the perception that they were at fault simply for being on a bike. Minnesota follows a modified comparative negligence system, which means your claim won’t be barred unless a judge or jury finds you more than 50% at fault for the accident. If you’re found less than 50% responsible, you can still recover damages, but the amount will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault. However, if you’re more than 50% at fault, you may be barred from recovering any damages at all.
That’s where anti-motorcyclist bias can become a serious problem. Insurance companies and opposing attorneys may try to use stereotypes against you: that motorcyclists speed, take risks or even ignore traffic laws. Even if you were riding safely and legally, these assumptions can influence how blame is assigned and how much compensation you’re awarded.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident and feel like the odds are stacked against you, don’t face it alone. Seeking legal guidance from someone who understands the biases riders face can help ensure your story is heard, and your rights are protected.