Motorcycle accidents.

The motorcycle was a 1978

Yamaha DT 175 dirt and trail bike. It had been purchased for farm use and had never been licensed. An accident happened, and an insurance claim was made. The insurance company did what insurance companies do, denied the claim. The denial was based on the language they only insured unregistered vehicles used on the premises. This accident occurred when the owner’s son drove the motorcycle across U.S. Highway 56. Open and shut? Nope.

The farmer owned and re

nted land on both sides of Highway 56 and, crossing the highway was a necessary part of farming operations. The driver was using the motorcycle in farming operations at the time of the accident. Did the accident occur on the insured premises? Yes said the court since driving the motorcycle across Highway 56 was a necessary part of farming operations and, therefore, occurred on the `farming premises’. Every case depends on its unique set of facts. Had this accident occurred while the motorcycle was being operated on any highway instead of simply crossing Highway 56, no coverage would have existed under the insurance policy.

A motorcycle accident often involves unique insurance issues and serious injuries. If you get hurt, call us.