When it comes to motor vehicle accidents, it may seem as though they are all the same. However, there are significant differences in how these crashes occur and the injuries passengers may experience as a result. As such, those who drive motorcycles should be aware of the differences between car and motorcycle accidents. Keep reading to learn more about the primary contrasts and how a Pike County, KY motorcycle accident lawyer can assist you if you’re looking to receive compensation for the injuries you’ve endured.
How Do Motorcycle Accidents Occur?
Unfortunately, many accidents happen at intersections when a driver makes a lefthand turn. As a result, they can collide with a motorcyclist because they did not see the smaller vehicle, misjudged the speed, or wanted to beat the oncoming traffic.
Similarly, drivers switching lanes may not see or even think to look for smaller vehicles on the road. Because of this, they can clip the bike as they move into the lane, which can cause them to lose control, flip, or take the wheels out. In other instances, the motorcyclist may be able to see the driver advancing in their lane, causing them to swerve and collide with another vehicle.
What Injuries Can Motorcyclists Sustain?
Studies show that nearly 80% of accidents involving motorcycles results in bodily harm to cyclists. As such, the injuries they can endure are often catastrophic. It’s important to understand that those on bikes are considered vulnerable because they do not have the protection of a vehicle to surround them. As such, the injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents are often more severe than those suffered in car collisions.
Unfortunately, despite only representing 3% of registered vehicles in America, motorcycles account for 14% of traffic fatalities. As such, death can often occur during these collisions.
If a motorcyclist does not pass away due to another driver, they can suffer a multitude of injuries. These include, but are not limited to:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Road rash
- Neck and spine injuries
- Internal organ damage
What Should Those Involved in an Accident Do?
Those involved in a motorcycle accident should take the necessary steps to contact emergency services as soon as possible. It’s imperative to receive medical attention for your injuries to mitigate damages.
Next, you’ll want to contact an experienced attorney once you can. In Kentucky, you only have one year to file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent party. This makes it imperative to begin this process as soon as possible.
If you’re hurt, Shane Hall, Attorney at Law, can help. Our dedicated legal team knows how devastating injuries for motorcyclists can be. As such, we will do everything possible to help you recover the damages you are entitled to. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you.
