Motorcycles have distinct disadvantages on the nation’s highways and streets, some of which contribute to devastating motorcycle accidents that leave lives forever marred by pain, suffering and disability.
Obviously, the much smaller size of motorcycles when compared to passenger autos makes them the underdog when it comes to motorcycle versus car accidents. Moreover, motorcyclists have no protection from being thrown from their bikes or being crushed between the force of the car and the bike, even during low-speed impacts.
For these reasons, some of the most serious injuries on Bensalem’s roadways occur when a motorcycle is involved. If you have been injured during a motorcycle accident, our Bensalem Car Accident Attorney can help you collect the damages to which you are entitled.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Each motorcycle accident is unique, but there are common causes for nearly all accidents. And while the motorcycle operator may sometimes cause his own accident, this is typically the exception, not the rule.
The greatest risk to the motorcyclist is other people on the roadway who may not give motorcyclists the respect due them or even infringe on their rights, leading to accidents.
For this reason, even though motorcycle accidents account for only 2.7 percent of the total number of crashes in the state each year, they are involved in over 17 percent of all fatalities. Some common reasons that motorcycles crash include:
- Speeding by passenger vehicles
- Errors by operators of passenger vehicles
- Failing to yield right-of-way to the motorcyclist
- Running into the motorcycle stopped at a stop light
- Braking too fast in front of the motorcycle
- Poor road conditions
- Inclement weather
- Defects in the motorcycle’s design or manufacture
Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Of the 3,300 or so motorcycle accidents in our state in 2014, there were just over 2,900 injuries that were serious enough to warrant medical help. A total of 186 accidents ended in fatality; 173 of the dead were drivers, and an additional 13 were passengers.
Because motorcycles lack any type of enclosure to prevent operator injury, the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be horrific. Soft tissue injuries, breaks, open fractures, crushing injuries, burns and deep cuts and lacerations are common. Road rash is also a common occurrence in most motorcycle incidents.
Depending on the severity of the accident and the force with which the rider is hit or thrown, it is also not unusual to see motorcyclists with Spinal Damage or traumatic brain injuries, despite wearing a helmet and safety gear.
Motorcycle Accident Damages
If you’ve been injured due to the negligence and poor judgment of others on the roadway, then you may be able to collect damages for your medical bills and lost wages.
In addition, courts may see fit to award monetary compensation for pain and suffering that you endured as a result of your injuries. However, motorcycle accident claims can be notoriously tricky, particularly if there are serious injuries involved.
Contact the Law Offices of Greg Prosmushkin and our Bensalem Motorcycle Accident Attorney now to Schedule Your No-Cost Case Review and to let us weigh your legal options for seeking justice in your case.