Motorcycles are an exciting and convenient mode of transportation that many people enjoy riding. However, they come with certain risks that riders must be aware of. Every year, thousands of people are involved in motorcycle accidents that result in injuries, some of which can be serious or even life-threatening. In this article, we will discuss the most common motorbike injuries that riders may experience and what to do if you or someone you know is involved in a motorcycle accident.
How Likely Is a Motorcycle Injury?
Motorcycle accidents are more common than many people realize. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 4,985 motorcyclists killed in crashes in 2018. This means that motorcyclists accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities that year, despite representing only 3 percent of all registered vehicles in the United States.
Moreover, the likelihood of a motorcyclist being involved in a crash resulting in injury or death is higher than for other motorists. Motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of passenger vehicles, and five times more likely to be injured, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
What Injuries Can You Get from Falling Off a Motorcycle?
When a rider falls off a motorcycle, they may sustain a range of injuries depending on the speed of the motorcycle, the terrain, the rider’s protective gear, and other factors. Here are the most common motorbike injuries that riders may experience:
Road Rash
Road rash is a common injury that occurs when a rider slides along the pavement after falling off their motorcycle. This can result in painful and often severe abrasions to the skin that may require medical attention. Road rash can also lead to infection if not treated properly.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are another common injury sustained in motorcycle accidents. Riders may suffer broken ribs, arms, legs, collarbones, and other bones, depending on how they land and the force of impact. Broken bones can be painful and may require surgery to repair.
Head and Brain Injuries
Head and brain injuries are among the most serious injuries that riders may suffer in a motorcycle accident. These injuries can range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which can be life-threatening. Wearing a helmet can help prevent head and brain injuries, but it is not a guarantee.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can also result from motorcycle accidents. These injuries can be severe and may lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Spinal cord injuries require immediate medical attention and can have long-term consequences.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries may occur when a rider’s body strikes a hard object, such as a curb or another vehicle. These injuries may include damage to internal organs, internal bleeding, and other complications. Internal injuries can be difficult to diagnose and may require surgery to repair.
What Are Most Motorcycle Accidents Caused By?
Motorcycle accidents can occur due to various factors, and understanding the common causes can help riders be more cautious and proactive in preventing accidents. Here are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. When drivers are engaged in activities that divert their attention from the road, such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-car technologies, their ability to notice motorcycles and react in time is greatly diminished. This can result in collisions and serious injuries to motorcyclists.
Failure to Yield
Many motorcycle accidents happen when other motorists fail to yield the right-of-way to motorcyclists. This can occur at intersections, when making turns, or when merging into traffic. Drivers may fail to see or properly judge the speed of motorcycles, leading to dangerous situations and collisions.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting refers to the practice of riding a motorcycle between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic. While lane splitting is legal in some jurisdictions, it can still be a dangerous maneuver if not done cautiously. Motorists may be caught off guard by a motorcycle suddenly passing them, leading to side-swipe accidents.
Impaired Driving
Impaired driving, whether due to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications, is a significant contributor to motorcycle accidents. When a driver’s ability to react and make sound judgments is impaired, they pose a serious risk to motorcyclists and other road users.
Speeding
Excessive speed is a common factor in motorcycle accidents. Motorcycles are smaller and more maneuverable than other vehicles, which can create a false sense of invincibility for some riders. However, high speeds reduce the time available to react to hazards, increase the severity of collisions, and make it more difficult to maintain control of the motorcycle.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Unsafe lane changes by both motorcyclists and other drivers can lead to accidents. Failing to check blind spots, not using turn signals, or making abrupt lane changes without sufficient warning can result in collisions between motorcycles and other vehicles.
Road Hazards
Road hazards such as potholes, debris, oil spills, or uneven surfaces pose a greater danger to motorcycles than to larger vehicles. Motorcyclists have less stability and fewer tires to maintain traction, making it crucial to stay vigilant and adapt to changing road conditions.
By being aware of these common causes of motorcycle accidents, riders can take proactive measures to reduce their risk. This includes staying focused, following traffic laws, wearing appropriate protective gear, and continuously honing their riding skills through training and practice.
When to Make a Motorbike Accident Compensation Claim
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident that was caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other losses. However, it is important to act quickly and take the appropriate steps to protect your legal rights.
First, seek medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident. This not only ensures that you receive the necessary medical care, but also creates a record of your injuries that can be used as evidence in a personal injury claim.
Next, gather as much information as possible about the accident, including the other driver’s contact and insurance information, witness statements, and photographs of the accident scene and any damage to the vehicles involved.
Finally, consult with a personal injury attorney who has experience representing motorcycle accident victims. An attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process of filing a claim, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and other losses.
Conclusion
Motorcycle accidents can result in a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to serious head and spinal injuries. By taking precautions such as wearing proper protective gear, following traffic laws, and staying alert while riding, riders can minimize the risk of injury.
However, if you are involved in a motorcycle accident that was caused by another driver’s negligence, it is important to take immediate action to protect your legal rights and seek the compensation you deserve. With the help of an experienced personal injury attorney, you can focus on your recovery while your attorney works to ensure that you receive the compensation you need to move forward.
Contact us at National Claims today to get a start on your motorbike injury claim.
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