Motorcycle accidents can lead to severe injuries due to the lack of protection that motorcycles offer compared to enclosed vehicles. When a motorcyclist is involved in a collision, the consequences can be life-altering, both physically and financially. This guide will explore the common causes of motorcycle accidents, the types of injuries sustained, and the steps needed to pursue a personal injury claim.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can occur for various reasons, and understanding the most common causes can help motorcyclists avoid potentially dangerous situations. Some of the leading causes include:

1. Driver Negligence: A large number of motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence of other drivers. This could involve failing to check blind spots, turning in front of motorcyclists, or not yielding the right of way. Distracted driving, especially due to mobile phone use, plays a major role in accidents involving motorcyclists.
2. Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed, whether by the motorcyclist or another driver, reduces reaction time and increases the likelihood of severe injuries in the event of a crash. Reckless behaviors, such as weaving between traffic or tailgating, significantly raise the risk of collisions.
3. Poor Road Conditions: Road hazards, including potholes, gravel, and uneven pavement, are especially dangerous for motorcycles. These hazards may be relatively harmless for cars but can cause a motorcyclist to lose control or be thrown off their bike.
4. Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and ice make roads more dangerous for motorcyclists, reducing visibility and creating slippery surfaces that make it harder to maintain control.
5. Alcohol or Drug Impairment: Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making it a leading cause of fatal motorcycle accidents.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists are far more vulnerable to injuries than drivers of cars or trucks. Without the protection of a vehicle’s frame, airbags, or seat belts, motorcyclists often face severe injuries, including:

1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even with a helmet, motorcyclists are at risk of suffering TBIs in an accident. These injuries can range from concussions to severe, life-altering brain damage.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity of the injury. These injuries often lead to long-term or permanent disability, drastically impacting a person’s quality of life.
3. Fractures and Broken Bones: Motorcyclists frequently suffer broken bones due to the impact of a crash. The arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones are particularly vulnerable.
4. Road Rash: When a motorcyclist slides across the pavement after an accident, they can suffer road rash, which is a severe type of skin abrasion. Road rash can result in infections, scarring, and nerve damage if not properly treated.
5. Internal Injuries: The force of a motorcycle crash can lead to internal injuries, such as damage to organs or internal bleeding. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
6. Amputations: In severe accidents, limbs may be crushed or so severely injured that amputation is required. This devastating injury can lead to lifelong physical and emotional challenges.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to take the right steps to protect your health and legal rights. Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, it’s important to see a doctor as some injuries may not present immediate symptoms. Medical records are also critical for any personal injury claim.
2. Call the Police: Always report the accident to the police, even if it seems minor. The police report will document the scene and serve as crucial evidence if you decide to file a claim.
3. Gather Evidence: If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, your motorcycle, the other vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses, as their statements may support your case.
4. Do Not Admit Fault: When talking to the other driver or law enforcement, be careful not to admit fault, even if you believe you may have contributed to the accident. Fault is often determined after a thorough investigation.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. However, be cautious about giving a recorded statement without legal advice, as it may be used against you in your claim.
6. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: Motorcycle accidents can involve complex legal issues, including determining fault and calculating damages. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and maximize the compensation you’re entitled to.

Pursuing a Personal Injury Claim After a Motorcycle Accident

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Personal injury claims typically cover:

• Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and future medical treatments.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income and reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Beyond financial losses, you may be compensated for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Property Damage: Compensation for the damage to your motorcycle and any other personal property involved in the accident may be included in your claim.

Motorcycle accidents can have devastating consequences, leading to severe injuries, expensive medical bills, and lost wages. Understanding the causes of these accidents and the steps you should take following a crash can help protect your legal rights and improve your chances of securing compensation. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, pursuing a personal injury claim can help you recover the damages you need to move forward with your life.

This article was written by a Bonardi & Uzdavinis professional. Bonardi & Uzdavinis LLP, a boutique full-service law firm, provides its clients a variety of legal representation. We practice in the areas of real estate, construction, commercial litigation, personal injury and probate. Contact us for a free case evaluation if you need a real estate lawyer or Riverview personal injury attorney.