What is a Motorcycle Accidents Claim?
Motorcycle accident claims cover collisions involving motorbikes and scooters on Irish roads. Riders face the SMIDSY ("Sorry Mate, I Didn’t See You") problem, where drivers change lanes, pull out of junctions, or turn across the rider’s path. Because there is no vehicle shell to absorb impact, motorcyclist injuries are often disproportionate to the accident severity.
Am I Entitled to Claim?
You can claim if another road user caused the accident through negligence. Common examples include a driver turning right across your path, pulling out of a junction without looking, opening a car door into your lane, changing lanes into you, or driving too close behind. Claims are made against the responsible driver’s motor insurance.
Step-by-Step Process
Medical Assessment
Attend A&E. Motorcycle injuries can include internal damage not visible externally.
Preserve the Bike
Do not repair or dispose of your bike before engineering evidence is gathered.
Garda Report
Serious injury RTCs are usually investigated. Get the Pulse ID and the investigating officer’s name.
Contact Keans
We review the collision, your injuries, and any protective gear damage.
Expert Evidence
We may commission an accident reconstruction expert if liability is disputed.
Claim Resolution
Through IRB or court, depending on severity and whether liability is accepted.
Evidence That Strengthens Your Claim
The stronger the evidence, the more straightforward the claim. Where possible, gather the following:
- Photos of your bike, the other vehicle, and the collision location
- Your helmet, gloves, and protective gear (keep these, do not dispose)
- Dash-cam or GoPro footage from your bike
- The Garda incident reference number
- Witness contact details including other riders in your group
- Engineering report on your bike if requested
- Medical records including A&E, orthopaedic, and neurology reports
Compensation Ranges
Based on the Judicial Council’s Personal Injury Guidelines 2021. Awards may also include special damages for lost earnings, medical costs, and future care needs. Exact value depends on your specific injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Failing to see a motorcyclist is negligence, not a defence. Drivers have a legal duty to look properly before manoeuvring. "Sorry Mate I Didn’t See You" cases are among the most common road traffic claims and they usually succeed.
Wearing proper protective equipment is expected and does not reduce your claim. Not wearing a helmet where one is legally required can reduce your compensation for head injuries through contributory negligence, but it does not bar the claim entirely.
Yes, but separately through the motor insurance property damage claim. Your personal injury claim covers the injury, lost earnings, medical costs, and related expenses. We coordinate both where possible.
If you were working at the time of the accident you may also have an employment-related claim, particularly if you are treated as an employee rather than contractor under Irish law. We review the working arrangement carefully.
Two years from the date of the accident or the date you first became aware of the injury. Certain exceptions apply for minors and cases involving delayed discovery, but the two-year limit is the default. Miss it and your claim is statute barred, so contact a solicitor early.
No. The initial consultation at Keans is free. For personal injury cases we discuss all fees in writing before work begins. In contentious business, Irish law prevents solicitors from calculating fees as a percentage of your award or settlement.