Motorcycle riders face some of the most serious injuries in any traffic crash. But when you’re hurt as a passenger who wasn’t in control of the bike, it’s only natural to have a lot of questions. Can you file an injury claim if a friend or family member was driving? What if both they and another motorist share blame?
Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum helps motorcycle passengers get the right answers, protect their rights, and pursue the injury compensation they need to recover.
Whether the crash involved a careless vehicle driver, a friend behind the handlebars, or both, here's what the law says about your options and how to start building a case.
Can a Passenger File an Injury Claim in a Rhode Island Motorcycle Accident?
Yes. If you were hurt due to someone else’s negligence, you have the legal right to pursue personal injury compensation. Unfortunately, this happened to one of our clients who was a motor vehicle passenger. However, the same stipulations apply: you had no control over what happened, and deserve an opportunity to pursue financial recovery for unexpected medical bills, lost income, and other aspects related to your injuries.
There are many causes of motorcycle accidents, so passenger claims can be filed against:
- Negligent motorcycle drivers. If the rider made an unsafe turn, was speeding, or lost control, you can file a claim through their insurance policy—even if they’re a friend or relative.
- Other at-fault drivers. If another vehicle operator caused the crash, you can file a claim against their auto insurance for your injuries.
- Multiple parties. If both the motorcycle rider and another motorist contributed to the crash, you may be able to recover from both insurance policies.
Remember: filing a claim for compensation isn’t about punishing anyone. But if you don’t, you could be left paying for expensive care and long-term recovery out of your own pocket—when insurance coverage was available all along.
What Potential Compensation Is Available to Injured Motorcycle Passengers?
You weren’t the one steering, but now you’re dealing with the physical, financial, and emotional fallout. Whether your injuries are temporary or life-changing, injured motorcycle passengers can seek economic and non-economic accident damages for the harm they’ve suffered.
With decades of experience to guide your case, our Rhode Island motorcycle accident attorneys might pursue:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages or reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In cases of permanent disability or long-term injury, the compensation can be significant—especially if ongoing care or accommodations are needed.
How Can Our Rhode Island Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Help?
At Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum, we’re aware of how challenging it is to make the decision to pursue passenger injury compensation. The process isn’t always straightforward. Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame or minimize the severity of your injuries. Or, if the driver was someone close to you, you might hesitate to take legal action—even though you're technically filing a claim against their insurance, not suing them personally.
Our team helps defend your rights without creating unnecessary conflict between friends or loved ones. We focus on insurance—not relationships—and work to get the support you need to move forward. During a no-obligation consultation, we’ll outline how we:
- Investigate the crash to determine all liable parties.
- Communicate directly with insurers to protect your rights.
- Identify all available insurance coverage.
- Calculate the full value of your damages.
- Negotiate for a fair settlement—or take your case to court if necessary.
You didn’t ask for this—and you shouldn’t have to face the consequences alone. At Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum, we’re here to listen, guide, and fight for the compensation you need to heal and move forward. If you’re overwhelmed or unsure of your next step, let us help carry the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery. Your story matters—and we’re ready to stand by you.