Vehicle collisions of all types are common, and sadly, motorcycle riders are more likely to suffer catastrophic consequences than other drivers. Despite the risk, many avid bikers enjoy rides whenever possible.
Motorcycle operators can do their part to keep themselves safe by acknowledging traffic and safety rules while traveling on the roadways. However, they are still at substantial risk of accidents caused by reckless motorists. Speak to a hard-working Merrillville motorcycle accident lawyer with The Law Offices of David W. Holub for more information. Our personal injury attorneys can provide the legal support that you need.
Motorcyclists Have a Higher Risk of Severe Harm
Motorcycle accident cases are unique. Frequently, shoulder injuries are seen in motorcycle accident cases, but spine and head injuries are also common, as are leg injuries. Whatever the specific injury, motorcycle riders often suffer permanent disability need for medical care.
Facial, Head, and Brain Injuries
Brain injuries can cause motorcyclists to have life-long disabilities, fall into a coma, and, in the worst cases, fatality. It is vital to wear a helmet to meet the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Doing so can significantly reduce brain damage and death risk in the case of a wreck.
However, motorcycle operators are at a high risk of concussions and traumatic brain injuries when they are ejected from the bike upon impact. Safety helmets with masks protect the face, but facial injuries are also common when accidents are severe. A Merrillville motorcycle accident attorney could answer questions about the rules and regulations during an initial consultation.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Motorcycles do not offer the same safety precautions as other vehicles, such as seatbelts, giving the operators a higher chance of spinal cord injuries. The jolt from the collision may make their body twist in awkward positions or eject them and cause permanent paralysis. Overall, the effects of severe spinal cord injuries can leave bikers unable to do the things they did before the incident.
Chest, Abdomen, and Internal Organ Damage
A sudden and forceful impact can be catastrophic to bikers, leaving them with severe chest, abdomen, and internal organ damage. Therefore, they must always seek treatment from a healthcare professional for examination after a crash, as symptoms may not appear immediately.
We all know that some people will hold a bias against a motorcycle operator who has been injured. People hold all types of biases, but we’ve all observed motorcyclists who have driven at unsafe speeds, and engaged in abrupt lane-changing and lane-splitting. You need an aggressive lawyer who will fight against, and neutralize, efforts by insurance carriers to insinuate that anyone who rides a motorcycle is begging to be injured.
Causes of Motorbike Crashes
Some of the most common reasons motorcycle crashes occur include:
- Cars turning left in intersections and misjudging the speed of a motorcycle
- Drivers failing to thoroughly check blind spots before switching lanes and other maneuvers
- Driver distractions, such as eating food, changing the radio station, talking on the phone, and texting
- Speeding and reckless driving, such as following too closely behind a motorbike
- Impaired motorists or motorcycle operators
- Poor weather and road conditions
- Potholes and other defects on the roadways
- Inexperienced drivers or motorcyclists
Bikers can help keep themselves safe by wearing federally approved helmets and other gear while riding. In addition, a motorcycle injury lawyer in Merrillville could investigate who was responsible and collect the crucial evidence needed to establish liability.
Call a Qualified Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Merrillville Today
Motorcycle accidents are among the most dangerous, often leaving riders with lasting injuries and devastating consequences. This is primarily due to motorcycles lacking the same safety equipment and protection as other vehicles on the road.
Unfortunately, even crashes that are not severe for other drivers can be fatal for a biker. When a careless motorist causes you to sustain bodily injuries and other damages, you could be eligible for compensation.
Our Merrillville motorcycle accident lawyers can help you and your family protect your legal rights and deal with the insurance company so you get the full compensation that you deserve. Please contact our office for legal advice involving your motorcycle crash claim.