The Case
A motorcyclist was traveling on Monument Avenue in Richmond when a vehicle turned left directly in front of him. The driver failed to yield the right of way, and the motorcyclist struck the passenger side of the turning vehicle.
The collision caused life-threatening orthopedic and internal injuries. The motorcyclist required approximately 20 surgeries over an extended period and underwent lengthy rehabilitation to regain function and mobility.
Despite extensive medical intervention, the injuries were severe and permanent. The motorcyclist faced a long road of recovery and ongoing medical needs.
The plaintiff pursued a motor vehicle negligence claim based on the driver’s failure to yield.
The Resolution
The case resolved through multiple sources of recovery. The at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits were tendered, meaning the insurer offered the full available coverage. The plaintiff also recovered through his own underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, which provides additional compensation when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient. Additionally, the at-fault driver made a personal contribution to the settlement.
The total recovery was $1,605,000.
Why These Cases Matter
Motorcyclists are vulnerable road users. When a vehicle turns left into a motorcycle’s path, the rider has little time to react and no protective barrier. These collisions often result in catastrophic injuries or death.
Life-threatening injuries requiring 20 surgeries represent years of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing pain. Each surgery carries risks. Each recovery period disrupts work, family life, and independence. The cumulative effect of multiple surgeries and extended rehabilitation is profound.
Underinsured motorist coverage is critical for motorcyclists and all drivers. When an at-fault driver has minimal insurance—as many do—UIM coverage provides a safety net. Without it, victims of serious crashes may have no way to recover adequate compensation even when fault is clear.
Personal contributions from at-fault drivers are rare but can occur when the driver has assets worth pursuing and the injuries are severe enough to justify the additional legal effort required to reach those assets.
If you were seriously injured in a motorcycle collision and are facing inadequate insurance coverage from the at-fault driver, contact us to discuss all potential sources of recovery. We handle motorcycle accident cases on a contingency basis—there is no fee unless we recover compensation for you.