Motorcycle crashes can leave victims with devastating injuries and extensive financial losses. In most Idaho motorcycle accident cases, injured riders will seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering, commonly known as compensatory damages. But in rare situations, courts may also award punitive damages.
Punitive damages do reimburse the victim for any loss. Instead, they punish the defendant for engaging in dangerous conduct and discourage others from doing the same.
Idaho law does allow injured motorcyclists to pursue punitive damages. However, these awards apply only in specific circumstances.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact our Boise motorcycle accident lawyer at Mountain States Injury Law to seek compensation. Schedule your free consultation today.
What Are Punitive Damages?
Punitive damages, sometimes called exemplary damages, punish an at-fault party for extreme recklessness or intentional misconduct.
Not every motorcycle accident qualifies for punitive damages. In fact, most do not. Under Idaho law, punitive damages are reserved for cases where the defendant’s actions were egregious.
Standard for Punitive Damages in Idaho
To pursue punitive damages in Idaho, the injured party must meet a high burden of proof. Specifically, they must show clear and convincing evidence that the at-fault party acted with:
- Oppression
- Fraud
- Malice
- Gross negligence that disregards the safety of others
Ordinary driver mistakes, such as failing to check a blind spot or misjudging a turn, are generally not enough to qualify for punitive damages. Punitive damages apply when the defendant’s behavior deserves to be penalized.
Examples of When Punitive Damages May Apply
While punitive damages are rare in Idaho motorcycle accident cases, they are available in cases when the defendant’s conduct shows an extreme disregard for human life or safety.
Examples may include:
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
If the at-fault driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the crash, a court may consider punitive damages appropriate.
Reckless or Excessive Speeding
Driving at dangerously high speeds, street racing, or intentionally weaving through traffic with no regard for others can support a claim for punitive damages.
Intentional Acts of Harm
If a driver deliberately strikes a motorcyclist or uses their vehicle to threaten, intimidate, or harm, punitive damages may be justified.
It’s important to note that in Idaho, a judge must first review the evidence and determine whether there’s a reasonable basis for seeking punitive damages before the claim can proceed to a jury.
Are There Limits on Punitive Damages in Idaho?
Yes. Idaho caps punitive damages to prevent excessive awards unrelated to an individual’s direct losses. Under state law, punitive damages are limited to the greater of:
- $250,000, or
- Three times the amount of compensatory damages awarded
For example, if you receive $100,000 in economic and non-economic damages for your injuries and losses, the maximum punitive damages you could recover would be $300,000.
Contact a Boise Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today for Help
Punitive damages are only available in the most serious Idaho motorcycle accident cases involving extreme recklessness or intentional misconduct. If you believe the driver who caused your crash acted with disregard for your safety, it’s important to speak with our experienced Boise motorcycle accident attorney, Dale G. Casares, right away.
At Mountain States Injury Law, our motorcycle accident attorney in Boise can help motorcycle accident victims across Idaho understand their rights and identify all potential sources of compensation in their claims.
Contact our team today for a free consultation with a Boise motorcycle accident lawyer. We’ll help you determine whether your case qualifies for punitive damages.