Owning a motorcycle can be exciting. Riders may take their bike out on a nice day to commute to work or even take a long ride with other bikers. Regardless of the reason for getting on a motorcycle, it is clear that riding one presents some dangers. For example, not all motorists take the time to locate potential motorcyclists traveling around them. Thus, a simple maneuver such as changing lanes on the highway could be life-altering for a motorcyclist struck by a negligent driver.
The aftermath of a motorcycle crash can be gruesome and tragic. The injuries and pains suffered by a victim are unlike ay other. Because a motorcyclist does not enjoy the same safety features as other motorists, he or she relies on his or her safety gear for protection. Without a hard outer shell, bikers are likely to be thrown off of their motorcycle, resulting in additional injuries from coming into contact with the pavement or grass.
What injuries are frequently suffered in a motorcycle accident? Based on current statistics, motorcyclists are 16 times more likely to die in a collision and are three times more likely to be injured in a crash when compared to victims of an automobile accident. Head injuries, which can result in fatalities, are a major risk for motorcyclists. While a helmet can minimize the possibility of death by 29 percent, this does not prevent all head and neck injuries from occurring.
A motorcycle accident is also likely to result in skin abrasions caused by hard surfaces like concrete and asphalt. Victims in a motorcycle crash are also likely to suffer broken bones. Whether it is due to the impact of the crash or a person’s natural reflex to brace him or herself in a fall, a victim could possibly suffer a break or strain to the arms, wrists, legs, spinal cord, and shoulder, too. Finally, a motorcycle accident victim could suffer psychological trauma as a result of the crash. He or she could have PTSD, which could require specialized medical care to overcome.
A motorcycle accident could alter the life of a victim, not only physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. Thus, it is important that victims fully understand their situation and what legal options they might have. If a negligent driver is at fault, steps could be taken to hold that driver accountable. Additionally, a personal injury claim could help the victim collect compensation, which may be used to offset financial burdens such as medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, and other and damages.
Source: iii.com, “Motorcycle Crashes,” July 21, 2017
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