When a motorcycle crash happens, it doesn’t just change the life of the rider—it turns the world upside down for their loved ones, too. If someone you care about has been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident in Alberta, you may suddenly find yourself dealing with hospitals, insurers, and legal questions you never imagined having to face.
At Hammer Injury Law, we understand that most motorcycle accident victims are too injured, overwhelmed, or focused on recovery to manage a legal claim themselves. That’s why we often work closely with spouses, adult children, siblings, or close friends who step in to help. This guide is for you—because when your loved one is hurt, knowing what to do next can make all the difference.
Why Motorcycle Accident Claims Are Different—and More Complex
Motorcycle accidents are some of the most catastrophic collisions on Alberta roads. With little physical protection, riders face a high risk of traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, internal damage, and long-term disabilities. These injuries don’t just change the victim’s life—they often leave families juggling caregiving, financial stress, and the uncertainty of what comes next.
Adding to the difficulty is the bias motorcyclists often face. Insurance companies may unfairly label riders as reckless—even when they weren’t at fault. Without experienced legal representation, it can be difficult to push back against this bias and ensure the crash is investigated fairly.
Step One: Prioritize Immediate Medical Care and Recovery
The number one priority is getting your loved one the care they need. In the early days after a serious crash, everything else—including legal questions—can wait. However, if you’re helping manage their affairs, keep copies of:
- Hospital and paramedic reports
- CT scans, MRIs, or surgical records
- A log of appointments and medications
- Photos of injuries or damage to gear
These records will be crucial later when building a compensation claim.
Step Two: Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Early
Once your loved one is stable, speaking to a motorcycle accident claim lawyer can help protect their long-term interests. At Hammer Injury Law, we offer free consultations and are happy to speak with a family member on behalf of an injured rider. Our team can:
- Start gathering time-sensitive evidence (dashcam footage, witness statements, road conditions)
- Advise you on dealing with insurance adjusters (or handle it for you)
- Help preserve legal options before important deadlines pass
Alberta’s Limitations Act generally gives you two years to file a claim—but the sooner we’re involved, the stronger the case we can build.
What Can Be Compensated in a Motorcycle Injury Claim?
Motorcycle injury claims in Alberta often involve a wide range of damages. A lawyer will help ensure every part of your loved one’s loss is properly valued.
Common compensation includes:
- Medical costs not covered by public health plans
- Lost income, both past and future
- Cost of future care, such as rehabilitation, mobility aids, or home modifications
- Pain and suffering, which is assessed differently depending on injury severity
- Loss of consortium or impact on spousal/family relationships in some cases
If your loved one is unable to work, care for themselves, or participate in life as they did before, these effects need to be documented early and clearly. That’s where working with a firm experienced in catastrophic injury law—like Hammer Injury Law—can make a significant difference.
What Families Should Watch for When Dealing With Insurers
Insurance companies aren’t your ally after a serious crash. Their job is to minimize payouts—and that starts as soon as the claim is opened. Watch for:
- Quick settlement offers: These often come before the full scope of injuries is known
- Requests for recorded statements: These can be used to downplay the seriousness of the injury
- Attempts to assign fault to the rider, even when the evidence doesn’t support it
- Delays or evasive communication, especially when you’re asking for benefit details
At Hammer Injury Law, we take this burden off your shoulders. We handle every communication with the insurance company so you can focus on supporting your loved one.
What If the Rider Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
This is a common concern for families, especially when insurers try to reduce or deny claims based on lack of safety gear. Alberta law requires helmets, but not wearing one does not automatically prevent compensation. The impact on the claim depends on the nature of the injuries and whether the helmet would have made a difference. This is a legal issue we handle on a case-by-case basis.
The Emotional Toll on Families
The legal system often forgets that behind every injury claim is a family trying to hold things together. When a loved one is hospitalized, unable to return to work, or living with a life-altering injury, the emotional impact is profound. We know the legal process can feel like one more thing to manage, and we’re here to take that weight off your shoulders.
At Hammer Injury Law, we don’t just fight for compensation. We advocate for dignity, support, and long-term stability for the injured—and for the people who stand beside them.
Talk to Hammer Injury Law Today
If your loved one has been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait to get the help they deserve. We’re here to guide you through the process, protect their legal rights, and give you the tools to support their recovery.
Your initial consultation is free, even if you’re calling on behalf of a loved one and it may be one of the most important steps you take.
Contact Hammer Injury Law today for a free consultation.