With summer here, motorcycle enthusiasts are taking advantage of warm weather and the open road. But the unfortunate reality on Ontario roadways is that motorcycle drivers are far more at risk for life-altering injuries if involved in an accident. Although most motorcycle riders are extremely safety-conscious, the very nature of a motorcycle puts them at greater risk even in a small accident.
The Danger of Motorcycle Accidents
In fact, research shows that motorcycles now account for ten times the injuries and five times the death toll compared to passenger cars involved in accidents. While automobile accidents have decreased, motorcycle accidents have not. Because of the added level of injuries in motorcycle accidents, costs resulting from them nearly double those of car accidents.
Motorcyclists More Often Not at Fault
Contrary to the stereotype of thrill-seeking motorcyclists, most drive responsibly. In fact, most motorcycle accidents are not the result of the motorcyclist’s error. Studies have shown that most motorcycle accidents are not the fault of the cyclist, yet the stereotypes persist. Huntsville injury lawyers know that this perception can work against motorcyclists when it comes to injury claims.
A More Dangerous Form of Transportation
The design of a motorcycle simply makes it a more dangerous form of transportation. Smaller and more difficult to see, a motorcyclist that is sharing the road with automobiles is subject to more injuries and more dangerous ones than that of the driver of an automobile.
The causes of motorcycle accidents are as varied as those of automobiles. They include:
● Distracted driving
● Impaired driving
● Speeding
● Sudden or risky lane changes, stops, or failure to check blind spots.
● Road maintenance
● Equipment failure
Because of a lack of protection, most motorcycle crashes will result in some form of injury to the driver. Even minor accidents can result in serious injuries. Lacking an automobile’s safety equipment, a motorcycle accident is more likely to result in:
● Severe cases of road rash
● Traumatic brain injuries
● Concussions
● Spinal cord injuries
● Internal injuries
● Broken bones and orthopaedic injuries
Giving Statements After an Accident
Over the years, we have represented many victims of motorcycle accidents. Often, a motorcyclist will inadvertently give statements after an accident that make it seem as if they were at least partially to blame. Phrases that a motorcyclist might use such as “laid the bike down” or “the car came out of nowhere” have been twisted to imply blame when it comes to an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. That is why it is so important to have the guidance of an experienced Huntsville injury lawyer on your side after a motorcycle accident.
Get Legal Representation
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another, you have a right to compensation for your injuries. Call the motorcycle personal injury lawyers at AM Injury Law to understand your legal rights after an injury due to a motorcycle accident. We offer a no-cost consultation to you in order to discuss your case.