Should You Repair or Replace Your Motorcycle After An Accident?

After a motorcycle accident, the decision to repair or replace your motorcycle depends on the circumstances surrounding the accident and the severity of the crash. Your bike may suffer minor damages such as dents and scratches or be totaled during an accident. Whether you file a claim with your insurance carrier, the other driver’s insurer, or pay for repairs out of your pocket depends on the extent of the damages and who was responsible for the accident.

If you are in a roll-over or run-off-road accident and the motorcycle has minor damages, replacing the whole bike may be unnecessary. Instead, you might want to get it repaired. However, if you are involved in a more serious collision, your motorcycle may be totaled.  Regardless of whether your motorcycle is repairable or totaled, you should file a claim with your insurance company or the at fault party’s insurance company to seek compensation.  

Motorcycle Safety Inspection Checklist after An Accident

Checking your motorcycle thoroughly after a crash is essential as it helps you identify the slightest damages. You should not ride the motorcycle home if you notice significant damages after an accident. Instead, you should have it towed to a repair shop for a full evaluation of the damage.

However, if your only option is to ride your motorcycle home after a collision (and you believe it is safe to do so) it is best to conduct a motorcycle safety inspection to ensure a safe ride. Here is an essential checklist:

• Tires – Check the motorcycle tires for cuts and gushes and ensure the tread is in good shape to help keep the bike moving.
• Roll your motorcycle – Roll the bike forward and backward to identify any strange rattling or crunching noises. Strange sounds could be an indicator of significant damages from the accident.
• Brakes – You should also inspect your brake system for impairments that could impact your ability to brake.
• Motorbike controls – It helps to check if the bike controls are all intact to allow you to control your motorbike as usual. Perform a visual check to ensure the clutch and foot controls are still effective.
• Lights and signals – These tools are vital since they help show other road users your intentions on the road. Therefore, you should ensure your lights and signals are all working before hitting the road.

Repair It vs. Replace It

Ultimately, the decision to repair or replace your motorcycle depends on the extent of the damage.  For example, you could choose to take it to a repair shop where the repair costs will be sent to the insurance adjuster.  Alternatively, the insurance company may declare your bike totaled and compensate you with its actual cash value.

Contact Natasha Misra Law for Legal Representation

If you are a rider in Milwaukee, Madison, Hales Corners, Appleton, or Green Bay who has been involved in a motorcycle accident, then you should consult with a motorcycle accident attorney. At Natasha Misra Law, we help motorcycle accident victims determine the true value of their claims and fight to get them the compensation they need to get healthy and back on the road. Contact us online or call us at 414-635-2858 to schedule a free consultation today.