The Real Cost Of Damage To Your Vehicle – How Hidden Costs Add Up After An Accident

Riding a motorcycle is fun, but it can also be risky because of the actions of others on the road. Unlike other vehicles, you don't have much protection if you crash. Additionally, riding a motorcycle can be dangerous on roads with a lot of potholes or if you're riding in unsafe weather conditions. Below are some tips for staying safe while riding.

Staying Safe on a Motorcycle in Wisconsin

Take a Safety Course: Riding a motorcycle requires good judgment and skill, and a safety course will help you achieve that. A motorcycle safety course will teach you the rules of the road and what to do in unpredictable riding situations.

Wear Appropriate Gear: The right gear will protect you from debris, road rash, and the elements. Your gear should feature a helmet, leather jacket, eye protection, leather pants, over the ankle boots, and non-slip gloves. Appropriate protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of injuries or fatalities.

Keep Your Bike Maintained: Replace the air filter, change the oil regularly, and maintain your bike's tire pressure. Inspecting your motorcycle before you hit the road is also a good idea. Check your turn signals, headlights, taillights, fuel, brakes, handlebars, and mirrors.

Stay Alert: Being aware of your surroundings and riding defensively can prevent motorcycle accidents that could be caused by dangerous driving.

Maintain a Safe Distance: Riding too closely behind another vehicle is unsafe. It is advisable to stay a few seconds away from the car or motorcycle in front of you. This allows you enough space to stop during an emergency. Additionally, you should always have an escape route in mind if you cannot stop in time.

Be Visible: One of the most significant mistakes riders make is assuming they are visible to other motorists. Most motorcycle accidents are a result of drivers not seeing the motorcycle. You can stay visible by avoiding other motorists' blind spots, driving with a headlight, and wearing reflective clothing. Using your hand and turn signals can also help ensure you are visible.

Common Motorcycle Road Hazards

Distracted or Drunk Drivers: Although it may not be easy to identify if someone is drunk driving, it is wise to be attentive to your surroundings and take appropriate measures.

Rain or Snow: The hazardous weather can create slippery and unsafe road conditions. Avoid riding while it is raining or snowing.

Tar or Debris: Since tar has a different texture from asphalt, it can compromise traction. Additionally, parts of tire treads and other debris on the road can be hazardous to motorcycles.

Contact a Milwaukee Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

If you or your loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Wisconsin, working with a Milwaukee motorcycle accident attorney is in your best interest.

At Natasha Misra Law, we are equipped to offer the guidance you need to know whether you are entitled to compensation. We will provide the representation you need to pursue compensation if you qualify. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

If you’ve been in an accident, you may end up paying for more than just repairs to your vehicle. There are a lot of hidden costs that may pile up after your car is totaled or severely damaged in an accident.

In this blog, we will explore the true cost of damage to your vehicle, and discuss who is responsible for paying these fees and how to recover compensation after you’ve been in an accident.

1. Property Damage To Your Vehicle

The first and most obvious cost is the actual property (or physical) damage to your vehicle. Cars are getting more expensive to repair due to the use of advanced electronics and sensors. Even an accident that seems minor can result in hefty repair bills – including the total loss of your vehicle.

2. Costs of Towing & Vehicle Storage

You may need to pay to have your vehicle towed to an auto body shop, collision center or salvage yard, and you may need to pay to have it stored until insurance adjusters can examine it and determine whether or not it’s worth repairing. This isn’t cheap, and can easily cost you hundreds of dollars in daily storage fees.

3. Renting A Car

If you need a car to get to work, take your kids to school, and accomplish other day-to-day tasks, you may need to rent a car. The price of renting a car can fluctuate so it's best to check what coverage options are available first. If your car repairs take a long time, renting a car can be very expensive.

4. Loss Of Use

In Wisconsin, it may be possible to recover compensation for “loss of use” meaning the period of time that your vehicle is unusable and out of service. This compensation covers the entire period of time that your vehicle cannot be used, and typically ends when your vehicle is declared a total loss.

5. Damage To Personal Property

A car accident can also cause damage to personal property. For example, if your laptop is in a bag in the front seat of your car and you’re hit, the airbags may explode and damage it or it may be shattered by the impact. Replacing damaged valuables should be considered when calculating the total value of your losses.

Coverage For These Costs Depends On Your Insurance & Who Was At Fault

If you were not at fault for your accident, you may be able to recover compensation for these costs from the at-fault person’s insurance provider – including repair costs, towing and vehicle storage, rental coverage, loss of use, and personal property damage. However, you can also seek recovery from your own insurance policy under your collision coverage. In fact, it may be in your best interest to do so, depending on the specific circumstances of your accident. Additionally, when a car is totaled and the amount owed on the car exceeds the car’s value, a gap insurance policy may be used to cover the difference. Working with a Milwaukee car accident lawyer will help you determine the best path to recovery and reach an acceptable settlement. Natasha Misra Law assists client with the repair or replacement of their vehicles at no additional cost.

If you are at fault, then your compensation will depend on the specifics of your insurance policy, and you may have to pay some out-of-pocket costs. Your insurance rates will also go up, since your insurance provider will have to cover your costs and the costs of the driver you hit. At times, it may be advisable to utilize your collision coverage.

Need Help After A Car Accident? Contact Natasha Misra Law Today!

At Natasha Misra Law, we’re here to help victims of car accidents recover the compensation they deserve for property damage, injuries, medical bills, and more. If you’ve been hurt in an accident, contact us online or give us a call to schedule an appointment with one of our Milwaukee car accident lawyers today.

Natasha Misra

My law practice is dedicated to helping people who have suffered injuries in accidents which were not their fault. Born and raised in Milwaukee, I come from a family of medical professionals. My background and experience help me understand and represent individuals injured in accidents.