Negligent drivers cause motorcycle accidents by failing to pay attention, speeding, running red lights, or making unsafe lane changes. These actions increase the risk of collisions, especially with motorcyclists, who are more vulnerable.
Common injuries from motorcycle crashes include broken bones, road rash, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal organ damage. These injuries can result in long-term medical treatment, lost income, and emotional distress.
A skilled motorcycle accident lawyer can investigate your accident circumstances, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation for your losses. They can also represent you in court if a fair settlement is not reached.
How Do Negligent Drivers Cause Motorcycle Collisions?
Motorcycle collisions are unfortunately common, and many of them result from the negligence of other drivers.
- One of the most common types of motorcycle crashes other drivers cause is when a car makes a left turn in front of a motorcyclist. This type of accident typically happens at intersections when a driver fails to notice a motorcyclist approaching or misjudges their speed. Because motorcycles are smaller and can be harder to spot, drivers sometimes do not give them enough space or time to pass safely. This kind of accident is often referred to as a “left-turn accident,” and it can result in a severe collision as the motorcyclist crashes into the side of the vehicle.
- Another frequent scenario involves car drivers changing lanes without first checking their blind spots. A motorcyclist is often in a position that is difficult for drivers to see, especially if they are riding in the lane next to the car or truck. When a driver fails to signal or look before changing lanes, they may side-swipe a motorcyclist, causing the rider to lose control or be thrown from the bike. These types of collisions are especially dangerous because they can happen suddenly, with little time for the motorcyclist to react.
- Rear-end collisions are also a major risk for motorcyclists, particularly when drivers tailgate or follow too closely. If a motorcyclist slows down to make a turn, stop at a red light, or avoid an obstacle, a driver who is too close may not have enough time to react, leading to a crash. Since motorcycles stop much more quickly than cars, this type of accident can be deadly for the rider, especially if they are thrown from the bike.
- Finally, distracted driving is a growing cause of motorcycle accidents. Whether the driver is texting, talking on the phone, or simply not paying attention, distractions can cause them to miss a motorcyclist on the road. This negligence often results in serious crashes, as the driver may not see the motorcyclist until it is too late.
What Are the Most Common Physical and Mental Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents due to negligent drivers often result in serious physical and mental injuries. As a result of the lack of protection compared to other vehicles, motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to harm in crashes. The types of injuries a motorcyclist may suffer can range from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries, and they often require immediate medical attention and long-term treatment.
Physical Injuries:
- Fractures and Broken Bones – One of the most common injuries in motorcycle accidents is broken bones, especially in the legs, arms, and ribs. These injuries occur when the rider is thrown from the bike or struck by another vehicle. Fractures may require surgery to repair, followed by a period of rest and physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
- Road Rash – When a rider is thrown from their bike and slides across the pavement, they can suffer abrasions on their skin, known as road rash. Road rash can range from scrapes to deep, painful wounds that may require skin grafts or extensive treatment to prevent infection and scarring.
- Head Injuries – Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) include concussions, skull fractures, or internal bleeding inside the brain. Immediate medical attention is critical, and treatment may include surgery, medication, and rehabilitation for cognitive and physical recovery.
- Spinal Injuries – Spinal cord injuries can result in paralysis if the spinal cord is severely damaged. Even less severe injuries may lead to chronic pain, numbness, or limited movement. Treatment often involves surgery, physical therapy, and possibly long-term care for rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries – Blunt force trauma from a collision can cause damage to internal organs like the liver, spleen, or lungs. These injuries may not be immediately obvious but can be life-threatening. Treatment often involves emergency surgery and close monitoring in the hospital.
Mental and Emotional Injuries:
Beyond physical harm, motorcycle accidents can also cause lasting mental health issues. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common among riders who experience crashes, leading to anxiety, flashbacks, and nightmares. Other emotional injuries may include depression, especially if the rider faces a long recovery or permanent disability. Psychological treatment, including counseling and therapy, is often necessary for recovery.
How to Prove Injuries in a Motorcycle Accident Case
When pursuing a motorcycle accident claim or lawsuit, one of the most important steps is proving the extent of your injuries. In legal terms, proving your injuries helps demonstrate the physical, emotional, and financial repercussions of the accident, which can strengthen your case for compensation. The following are several ways to effectively prove your injuries in a motorcycle accident claim:
- Medical Records and Reports – The most important evidence in proving injuries is medical documentation. Following the accident, you should seek immediate medical treatment, even if you do not feel injured right away. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately, so getting checked by a healthcare professional ensures both your well-being and the documentation needed for your case. Medical records, including diagnostic tests, doctor’s notes, and treatment plans, will provide concrete proof of your injuries. These records can show the severity of the injuries, the treatments you have undergone, and the prognosis for your recovery.
- Personal Testimony and Statements – Your own testimony about the accident and its aftermath is also important. A detailed account of the crash, the injuries you sustained, and how those injuries have affected your life can make a significant impression in court or during settlement negotiations. This personal perspective helps paint a picture of the challenges you face as a result of the accident, including how it affects your daily activities, work, and relationships.
- Witness Testimony – Eyewitnesses to the accident can provide valuable support for your claim. If others saw the crash happen, their testimony can establish the circumstances of the accident, the severity of the collision, and how it affected you. Witnesses may also testify to how the injuries appeared immediately after the crash, supporting your claims of physical harm.
- Expert Testimony – In some cases, expert witnesses may be necessary to explain the extent of your injuries and their long-term effects. These experts may include medical professionals who can speak to the nature of your injuries, the treatment required, and the potential for future medical needs. They can also provide insight into how the injuries may affect your quality of life going forward.
- Photographs and Video Evidence – Photographs and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the recovery process can be powerful evidence. These visual materials can show the physical damage to your body, your motorcycle, and other vehicles involved. They help reinforce your testimony and the testimony of others, making your claims more credible.
Recoverable Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Injuries
If you have suffered an injury in a motorcycle crash due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation to cover the costs of your injuries and losses. These compensations are meant to make you whole again by covering both your financial losses and the effects the accident has had on your life. Here are the main types of compensable losses you can recover after a motorcycle collision:
- Medical Expenses – This category of damages includes all costs related to treating your injuries, such as hospital bills, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and any ongoing treatments. If your injuries require long-term care, rehabilitation, or future medical treatments, you can recover those costs as well. Be sure to keep all your medical bills and records to support your claim.
- Lost Earnings – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for the income you lost while you were unable to work. Compensation for lost income includes any time you missed immediately after the accident, as well as any future lost earnings if your injuries affect your ability to return to your job or perform the same tasks.
- Pain and Suffering – Pain and suffering compensation is for the physical pain and emotional distress the crash caused. This type of loss is harder to calculate because it does not involve direct expenses. The amount you may receive depends on the severity of your injuries, how long you experienced pain, and how your injuries have affected your daily life and well-being. The more serious and lasting the injury, the higher the pain and suffering compensation may be.
- Property Damage – In many motorcycle accidents, your bike and other personal property, like helmets or gear, may be damaged or destroyed. Property damage compensation covers the costs of repairing or replacing your motorcycle and any other damaged items. If your motorcycle is totaled, the compensation should reflect its market value before the crash.
- Emotional Distress – In some cases, a motorcycle crash can cause significant emotional trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. If the accident has led to emotional distress, you may be entitled to compensation for these psychological injuries, which typically requires evidence from mental health professionals to support your claim.
- Loss of Life Enjoyment – If your injuries prevent you from doing activities you enjoyed before the accident – such as hobbies, sports, or social events – you can recover compensation for loss of life enjoyment. This compensation is meant to make up for the way your lifestyle has changed due to your injuries.
A knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney will work hard to ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
How Can a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help Throughout Your Case?
A knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer can be a valuable ally throughout your claim or lawsuit by handling the difficult legal process and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Their skill in motorcycle accident cases can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. The following are several ways a knowledgeable attorney can help you during your claim or lawsuit.
- Investigating the Accident – One of the first tasks a motorcycle accident lawyer will undertake is investigating the accident. They will gather evidence, such as police reports, eyewitness statements, and photographs of the scene, to understand what happened. An attorney may also work with accident reconstruction experts to analyze the crash and determine fault. This evidence is vital because proving liability is often one of the most challenging parts of a motorcycle accident case, especially if there are multiple parties involved or the other driver denies fault.
- Handling Insurance Companies – Dealing with insurance companies can be a frustrating and overwhelming experience, especially if they try to minimize your claim or offer a low settlement. A skilled lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance companies on your behalf. They will make sure that your rights are protected and that you are not pressured into accepting an unfair settlement. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, your lawyer can take the case to court.
- Calculating the True Value of Your Claim – An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can accurately assess the full value of your claim, taking into account not only your current medical bills and lost income but also future medical expenses, long-term care needs, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. Motorcycle accidents often result in serious, long-lasting injuries, and a skilled lawyer will ensure that all aspects of your recovery are considered when determining the amount of compensation you should pursue.
- Negotiating a Settlement – While many motorcycle accident claims are settled outside of court, negotiating a fair settlement requires skill and experience. Your attorney will know how to negotiate with insurance adjusters and opposing counsel to reach a settlement that reflects the true value of your case. If the parties cannot reach a settlement, your attorney will be prepared to take the case to trial.
- Representing You in Court – If your case goes to trial, having a knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer is essential. They will represent you in court, presenting your case to a judge and jury. Their experience in the courtroom can greatly increase your chances of securing a favorable verdict.
- Providing Emotional Support and Guidance – Beyond legal experience, a skilled attorney can provide emotional support during a difficult time. Knowing that a professional is handling your case can provide peace of mind and reduce the stress that often accompanies the aftermath of a motorcycle crash.
Call an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
If you sustained injuries in a recent motorcycle collision that a negligent driver caused, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your various losses. Your lawyer can determine your eligibility for filing a claim or lawsuit, go over your options with you, and work to maximize your overall settlement or litigation award.