Motorbike pillion passenger accident claims

Some may ask; what is a pillion passenger? It’s a mostly British term that describes a person who sits behind the rider/driver of a motorbike. Riding pillion is only illegal if the motorbike doesn’t have a securely fitted seat behind the rider, and the passenger must also be able to reach the footrests.

If they don’t have the required height to reach the footrests, or the motorbike is only designed for one passenger, it’s illegal to carry a pillion passenger.

Taking a legal pillion passenger accident, where does a pillion passenger stand in terms of being able to claim?

Pillion passenger accidents

You can still make a claim if you weren’t the one operating the bike. In fact, its likely that you have a guaranteed claim as there is normally nothing a pillion passenger could have done to have caused or contributed toward an accident.

This is the same in car passenger claims.

Ultimately, whether it’s the rider of the bike you’re on who is at fault, or another road user at fault, you should have a valid claim for injuries. It doesn’t matter that you were not the rider of the bike.

Guidance for pillion passengers

Pillion passengers are in danger if some conditions aren’t complied with. ‘Ask the Police’ has reiterated and provided some guidance on pillion passengers. In order to carry a passenger on a motorbike:

• The rider must have a full licence for that class of motorbike;
• A motorbike must be equipped with suitable supports or rests for the feet of the pillion;
• Pillion passengers must be capable of sitting astride a proper seat securely fixed to the motorbike;
• A pillion passenger must wear a suitably constructed safety helmet;
• The decision to carry a passenger remains with the rider, who is legally responsible for ensuring that the passenger is safely supported.

If in doubt, always check! Restrictions are also found in Section 23 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 and further guidance is found in the Highway Code.

Compensation

If you have been involved in a collision involving a motorbike, please contact us today so we advise on any compensation that may be due to you.