It’s no secret that riding a motorcycle is a thrilling experience for riders. But, unfortunately, it comes with a lot of risks. Unfortunately, the reality is that you are not the only one on the road- other reckless drivers also contribute to severe motorcycle accidents. In addition, other issues like unforeseen mechanical issues and bad road conditions contribute to tragic motorcycle accidents.
It’s always better to be cautious and informed about motorcycle crashes. So, let’s look at what percentage of motorcycle riders get in accidents. Also, if you’re involved in a car accident, learn how to seek compensation with the help of a motorcycle accident lawyer in Sarasota.
What is the Rate of Motorcycle Accidents for Motorcycle Riders?
According to NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), more than 5000 motorcyclists lose their lives in almost 89,000 accidents that USA roads witness yearly.
Also, NHTSA reports that more than 27% of bikers are at risk of an accident while under alcohol. Looking at the statistics, it is essential to understand that although not all accidents are fatal, superficial damages, such as bruising, minor cuts, and damage to the vehicle, are involved in almost all of them.
Overall, almost 1% of all motorcyclists in the USA get involved in minor or fatal collisions yearly.
What are the Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
Accidents could be caused by numerous reasons involving the other driver’s negligence, distracted driving, and so on. Here are some of the common causes which the bikers could be cautious about to avoid collisions:
Lane Splitting:Â This practice often surprises the individuals moving in a particular direction and only provides them with little time to make any decision, and the results are drastic.
Unexpected or Sudden Opening Of Car Doors:Â If the motorcyclist approaches at a decent speed, it becomes almost impossible for the rider to avoid colliding with the car doors opened on the active side of the road.
Factors That Can Cause a Motorcycle Crash
There are many factors included in a motorcycle crash. For instance- when a biker is practicing lane splitting, his presence may likely get unnoticed, and a car on stop may open a door into them. While the owner of the vehicle has to pay for the damages to the door, it can cost a motorcyclist his life.
A biker may also experience a slip due to fuel spillage or other road litter. A cigarette from a passing driver may bounce off the windshield of a car without causing any harm, but when it hits the biker’s shirt, events may take a deplorable turn.
So, it’s always better to be cautious on the road to avoid motorcycle collisions.
How Does a Motorcycle Accident Compare to Car Accident?
Motorcycle accidents are typically more severe because they only have two wheels, no airbags or seat belts, and are significantly smaller than other motor vehicles. Furthermore, a motorcycle lacks the security of being shielded and confined by metal doors. Motorcycles can pose serious risks due to their restricted visibility to other drivers, lack of stability, and encounters with road hazards such as debris, dirt, and rocks. Motorcycle accidents are far more difficult to control than car accidents for a variety of reasons, including:
- Motorcycle accident victims may face additional obstacles in court from juries who see motorcyclists as hazardous or reckless.
- Because of their vulnerability, motorcycle riders are more likely to sustain catastrophic and irreversible injuries.
- Motorcycle riders will almost certainly require long-term financial assistance to fund medical care following a spinal cord or brain injury.
What Compensation Can I Collect After a Motorcycle Accident?
If you are a biker who faced an accident due to the fault of some other party, you are eligible for several claims depending on the damage caused.
Economic Compensatory Damages
These are the specific damage financial compensation that serves as the primary elements of an accident claim.
These compensations include lost finances and billed expenses that were caused due to the accident. Typical examples include:
- Lost wage recovery
- Medical bill recovery
- Physical property damage recovery
Special damage
These damages are calculated after considering all elements, including the lost wages. However, you are only eligible for lost wages if you were employed at the time of the accident and won’t be able to work during the recovery. The loss of future earnings also becomes a part of the claim if a victim faces a permanent disability.
Non-Economic Compensatory Damages
These claims are not connected to any particular billing amount but are primarily focused on the problems the victim may encounter in the future. These compensations are considered non-economic as they are greatly based on various material case factors like:
- Additional necessary expenses
- Mental anguish
- Pain and suffering allowances
Motorcycle Injury Statistics
While riding a motorcycle, you are more vulnerable to fatal injuries as you are not as protected as riding a traditional four-wheeler. This is the reason why the injury stats of a motorcycle are a little concerning:
- In 2019, 30% of the people who died in a bike accident were not carrying a license.
- 41% of the fatalities were caused by drivers not wearing helmets.
- Most of the accidents take place surprisingly in good weather conditions.
- Drivers under the influence of either drugs or alcohol caused over 15% of the casualties.
- Motorcycles are 29 times more likely to face an accident than other automobiles.
After looking at the stats, we all agree on one thing: Riding safely and abiding by the law is the best way to prevent yourself from collisions.
How Can a Motorcycle Attorney Help You?
Establishing all the facts and gathering the necessary documents could be very hectic. You may also have a hard time while being testified in court if you need someone to guide you. Therefore, getting in touch with a motorcycle collision lawyer is highly recommended, as they can help you build a sturdy case.
It is very reassuring when you have a helping hand to get you through the rough path of the legal approach. An attorney can also make you aware of all the claims that could be made to get suitable funds to compensate for all the damages you faced.
Contact Coleman Law Group
Regardless of your motorcycle collision situation, always work with our renowned lawyers. Coleman Law Group is a law firm that can help you to get in touch with the most experienced and skillful motorcycle lawyer in Tampa who can help you to get through the case quickly. We focus on our clients and guide them throughout the process.
