Motorcycles are more challenging to spot and provide less protection for the rider and passengers, increasing the risk of collisions and catastrophic harm. For these and other reasons, motorcycle accidents are different from car accidents.
Additionally, you could seek compensation if someone else caused your motorcycle accident and injuries. We may be able to help.
Causes of Motorcycle Crashes
The causes of motorcycle crashes are similar to those of car accidents. Speeding and driving (or riding) under the influence of drugs or alcohol are two of the most common factors, especially in fatal accidents. Distracted driving, which may involve using a cell phone or talking to passengers, is another leading cause—as is driving while fatigued.
Aggressive driving, or road rage, is another prevalent issue among riders and drivers. Often, this results in people following too close behind another bike or vehicle, running red lights, or passing unsafely.
Motorcycle Accidents Can Occur When Drivers Violate Traffic Laws
Another common type of incident is when a driver makes a left-hand turn and hits a motorcycle traveling straight or attempting to pass. This occurs because the vehicle’s driver may not see the motorcyclist as the bike may be in the driver’s blind spot.
Lane splitting, which is legal only in certain states, is another cause of motorcycle accidents. This involves riding a motorcycle between two rows of cars that are stopped. Again, this can be problematic because motorcycles can easily be concealed in drivers’ blind spots.
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Possible Compensation for Motorcycle Accidents
Every crash is unique. The amount of compensation you can reasonably expect to receive depends on factors such as the severity and scope of your injuries and how much the crash impacted your life. However, it is not uncommon for victims to receive thousands of dollars in both cases.
Because motorcyclists tend to suffer more severe injuries, it may take months or years to recover, and their compensation may be greater than that of the average passenger vehicle victim.
This money can pay for immediate needs, such as emergency care, doctor bills, and lost wages. It may also cover ongoing and anticipated costs, such as physical therapy, in-home care, and necessary future surgeries. It may also cover past and future pain and suffering and reduced quality of life.
Pursuing Justice for a Motorcycle Accident
As with car crashes, proving liability is the first step to pursuing compensation for a motorcycle accident in which another person is at fault. To demonstrate that the other party is responsible, you must gather sufficient evidence to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash. This may include photographs, eyewitness testimony, and police reports.
Often, proving fault is not an easy task. It is common for drivers to pin the blame on the victim—even if they know they acted inappropriately—to avoid financial responsibility. For motorcyclists, the process can be even more taxing.
People, including jurors, may have preconceived notions about motorcyclists and think that motorcyclists are inherently unsafe drivers. This can make it more challenging to obtain just compensation. This is one reason you may want to consider working with our firm, as we can advocate for you throughout the process.
Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents Are Different than Car Accidents
With cars and trucks, a metal barrier separates the occupants and the outside world. This shields those vehicle drivers and passengers from the elements and provides a buffer in a collision. These vehicles also contain airbags and seatbelts.
Motorcycles do not have any of these safety features. Occupants are more susceptible to adverse weather conditions and more vulnerable to a crash. Even if a motorcycle rider wears a helmet, they are more likely to suffer debilitating long-term or permanent injuries, particularly if they are ejected from the bike.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that one of the most severe traumas an accident can cause is a traumatic brain injury (TBI). This condition can cause permanent brain damage, paralysis, or death. Wearing a helmet can significantly decrease the risk of a TBI for motorcyclists; however, not all motorcyclists wear a helmet regularly.
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Get in Touch with an Attorney Today
Motorcycle crashes can be traumatic and life-altering, causing devastating physical injuries and emotional pain and anguish. In the aftermath, you may be further overwhelmed by the stress and anxiety of mounting medical bills.
Contact the team at High Stakes Injury Law for help. We are dedicated to helping victims get the compensation they need to recuperate and move forward. Call (702) 444-3228 to talk with a legal representative about your case today.
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