Compensation for Damage to a Customized Bike/Motorcycle

Following a motorcycle accident, there are a number of issues and questions that arise regarding the repair, diminished value, and total loss of the motorcycle. It can be quite confusing as to which insurance company to deal with and what will actually be covered with respect to the motorcycle damage. Motorcycle accident attorney David Wolf represents motorcycle owners and riders with respect to personal injury claims and property damage claims. During his 27 year career, David Wolf has devoted his time, energy, skill, and attention to those who have been injured as a result of a motorcycle accident and other types of crashes.

What if my motorcycle is customized? Can I get the value of my customized parts or paint? Like many issues that arise in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, the answer to the question depends on the facts, circumstances, and insurance coverage language.

Some insurance carriers will offer you a stated value policy which means in the application for insurance, you and the company agree to the replacement value of the motorcycle and you will pay the premium associated with the value. The higher the value, the higher the premium, naturally. Other policies allow payment for "betterments." Betterments are also known as enhancements. This would include customized paint, additional chrome, additional lighting, larger wheels and tires etc. Most insurance policies that allow for coverage beyond the fair market value require you to identify the customized parts and notify the insurance company of the value of the parts when you apply for the insurance. Some insurance policies will cover for betterments without an additional premium as long as you can prove with receipts the value of the add on items such as custom paint, exhausts, lights, seats etc. You should review your motorcycle insurance policy with your agent periodically to be sure that the money you spend customizing your motorcycle is protected by your motorcycle insurance policy.

When pursuing a property damage claim against the automobile insurance policy for the at-fault driver, there may be resistance and reluctance on the part of the insurance company to pay for damages associated with the betterments, extras, or improvements to the custom motorcycle. Insurance adjusters are difficult to deal with even on a case involving a fairly standard motorcycle property damage claim.

It is abundantly clear that the owner of the motorcycle has a great connection to the motorcycle and its rightful repair or replacement than any insurance company will. It is often helpful to have legal representation to properly and fully pursue a property damage claim, collision claim, or comprehensive insurance claim on behalf of the motorcycle owner.

Contact motorcycle accident attorney David Wolf today to discuss your personal injury and property damage issues. David Wolf is available days, nights, and weekends to assist you. Call David Wolf at (904) 500-9653 or e-mail him at dwolf@davidalanwolf.com. Get D Wolf On Your Side - At Your Side today.