Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are often caused by circumstances the motorcyclist cannot control. Other motorists failing to detect motorcyclists on the road is the most common cause of motorcycle accidents.
Motorcyclists should always wear protective gear when they ride, such as helmets and protective clothing. It is also important to be aware of the many reasons accidents occur. This includes a lack of awareness by other drivers on the road, but it also includes factors such as lane splitting by motorcyclists, speeding, lack of driving experience, rough road terrain, and driving while intoxicated.
Some accidents are also caused by simple things like making left turns, lane changes, following a vehicle too closely, and car doors opening unexpectedly in a motorcyclist’s path.
Common Injuries Caused in Motorcycle Accidents
Even if a rider wears a helmet and protective gear, motorcyclists are always vulnerable on the road. They do not have the privilege of being surrounded by metal and air bags like those driving cars and trucks. Therefore, motorcyclists involved in accidents often suffer from a number of serious injuries.
Injuries commonly suffered in motorcycling accidents include the following:
- Burns – A rider may suffer from burns if the accident leads to an explosion or fire. A rider may also suffer from burns caused by chemicals such as battery acid, hot exhaust pipes, or engines,
- Scrapes (also known as “Road Rash”) – Road rash occurs when a person’s skin makes contact with the road, leading to serious and painful scraping which may or may not lead to scarring, or a need for skin grafts.
- Broken Bones – Broken bones can be caused from direct collision with a vehicle, the road, getting trapped underneath a motorcycle, being thrown from the bike, etc.
- Brain Injuries – Brain injuries are most often caused when a rider’s head makes contact with a hard surface, such as pavement.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Usually, spinal cord injuries occur when someone is involved in a serious collision. These types of injuries can lead to permanent paralysis.
- Organ Damage – Organ damage can occur in any accident, and usually it is caused by contact with a hard and/or heavy object. Organ damage, such as internal bleeding, may result whether or not the body was penetrated by said object.
- Amputation – Amputation usually occurs after permanent damage is done to one or multiple extremities, such as a rider’s legs being crushed by a vehicle or bike.
- Nerve Damage – Nerve damage can be caused after arms or legs suffer a great impact, such as when a rider is thrown from their bike and tries to brace themselves as they fall, their arms outstretched.
- Death – In 2018, 4,985 people died who were involved in motorcycle accidents.
- Mental Health – Mental health can be greatly impacted after a motorcycle accident. Some conditions to look out for include depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health problems.
Your Accident & Injury Lawyer in Rockford, IL
If you or someone you love has been involved in a motorcycle accident that could have been prevented, you will need an experienced and reliable injury attorney at your side to help you get the compensation you deserve. American Law Firm, P.C., your trusted injury lawyer in Rockford, Illinois, is here for you. Contact us today.
