Drivers need to exercise caution when driving on America’s roadways. There are many risk factors associated with motorcycle crashes. When they least expect it, a driver could make one wrong turn, and a motorcyclist could lose their life. Some common causes of motorcycle accidents include, but are not limited to:
- Speeding
- Intoxicated driving
- Left-turn accidents, either because the driver did not see the motorcyclist or vice versa
- Sudden stops
- Unsafe lane changes by either the driver or the motorcyclist
- Hazardous road conditions
- Vehicle failure or malfunction
- Other careless or reckless actions by drivers
When a motorcyclist suffers serious or catastrophic injuries in a collision, the injured victim may be able to recover fair compensation with the help of a personal injury lawyer. Understanding why these crashes happen and how these cases work could help you get justice in your motor vehicle accident.
The Importance of Motorcycle Safety
Motorcycling, for many people, is a way of life. Keeping these riders safe means getting them home to their families at night. It is hard to describe the connection an experienced rider feels with their bike, but that feeling is something motorcyclists do not want to lose—and they should not have to. All permitted drivers share America’s roadways, and motorcyclists have every right to traverse our beautiful country.
As motorcycle riders are naturally more vulnerable to accidents than other vehicle drivers, drivers should give special attention when motorcyclists are on the roadways.
Though some accidents occur because the rider fails to perform proper safety procedures while riding, another common cause of motorcycle accidents is motorists not keeping an eye out for cyclists. Drivers thinking twice about their next move can save countless cyclists from injury and even death.
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Some Common Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can be extremely harmful, with injuries including:
- Broken bones
- Abrasions, burns, and road rash
- Torn ligaments
- Head injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Injuries that cause motorcycle deaths
Because there are no protective structures between the rider and the world around them, their body can be completely left up to the mercy of the elements. That is why motorcycle accidents are so scary, and why people need to be aware of safety procedures.
The rate of speed at which both parties were driving can have a significant effect on the amount of damage from a motorcycle accident. For example, if a bike is hit from behind at a stoplight at a high speed, the motorcyclist’s injuries may be much more severe than if they laid their bike down due to dangerous road conditions. The extent of the injuries involved in the accident revolves around both parties doing their part to keep the roads safe.
Further, safety measures can help prevent these common causes of motorcycle accidents from happening in the first place or lessen their devastating effects. Some practices for better roadway safety include:
- Checking blind spots and looking both ways when crossing intersections
- Speeding up to meet the flow of traffic when merging
- Always using a designated driver after drinking
- Meeting safety needs when weather changes or road conditions worsen
- Always wearing a helmet when riding your motorcycle
- Using proper turn signals
- Taking a safety class to prevent motorcycle collisions
What Are My Legal Options After Motorcycle Severe Injuries?
When another driver causes a motorcycle crash, the motorcyclist can hold them legally responsible for careless or reckless driving. They can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company or sue the driver in civil court. Our motorcycle accident attorneys handle these cases regularly.
Attorneys investigate what happened, gather evidence, determine the victim’s legal options, and manage their case for them. This allows the victim to focus on their physical recovery while the law firm seeks a payout for them.
The money a motorcycle driver receives through an insurance company settlement or court award compensates them for their economic and non-economic damages. These are the expenses and losses they experienced because of the crash and injuries. Some common examples include:
- Medical bills and related expenses
- Future and/or ongoing care costs
- Income losses
- Diminished earning capacity for lasting injuries
- Property damage
- Miscellaneous expenses related to the crash
- Pain and suffering
- Other intangible losses
Unfortunately, deaths from motorcycle accidents are also common. When a victim suffers fatal injuries, some state laws may allow family members to seek compensation. Who can file these lawsuits and the types of damages recoverable depend greatly on where the crash occurred. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand your rights if your loved one dies in a car crash.
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How Common Are Motorcycle Crashes?
According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), a 2019 motorcycle crash causation study found that the most common cause of motorcycle accidents was operator error, whether on the part of the motorcyclist or the other driver. Additional contributing factors include a motorcyclist’s inexperience and the inherent dangers associated with the lack of protection between the rider, other vehicles, and the environment.
A Team of Lawyers by Your Side
At the Morris Bart law firm, our team of personal injury attorneys has worked with countless clients involved in motorcycle accidents over the years. Our legal team knows the common causes of motorcycle accidents. Whether you were hurt or your loved one suffered fatal injuries, our representatives would love to speak with you so we can find out how to help.
Many accidents are caused by drivers not being attentive enough. However, this is no excuse. When another driver puts you in harm’s way, they should be held accountable for their actions and help you recover damages for your pain and suffering.
Our attorneys are here to protect your right to compensation. The last thing you want to worry about when suffering injuries in an accident is how you will make ends meet.
We will help prove who was at fault in your accident so you can move on with the rest of your life. To learn more about our services, contact us today for your free consultation. You are not in this alone.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
