If you got in a motorcycle accident and you got injured, you might be entitled to damages. These motorcycle injuries are some of the most common we cover.
The direct costs of motorcycle crashes in 2010 were an overwhelming $16 billion. The U.S. Government Accountability Office concedes that doesn’t include the indirect costs.
Why are motorcycle crashes so expensive? To understand this, we need to look at the types of injuries sustained in motorcycle crashes.
Who pays these large costs associated with motorcycle injuries?
At first, victims bear the costs of an accident. If they can prove another driver was at fault, then they have legal grounds to seek compensation.
Keep reading to learn more.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Even when you’ve followed all the best safety tips to avoid an accident, another person may still hit you.
A motorcycle injury is often more severe than other motor vehicle accident injuries. This is because bikers are more exposed. It’s not uncommon for a biker to get ejected completely off their ride.
The CDC reports the number of deaths on motorcycles was 28 times the number of fatalities in cars.
Take a look at some of the most common motorcycle-accident related injuries:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Whiplash
- Road rash
- Nerve damage (Biker’s Arm)
- Fractured knees
- Broken bones
- Muscle damage
- Spinal cord injuries
In the worst cases, a biker can perish as a result of the crash.
Consequences of Motorcycle Injuries
These types of motorcycle injuries can range from minor to fatal.
It sounds benign, but road rash can be extreme. Some forms of motorcycle road rash treatment involve skin grafting surgeries.
Injuries can cause a victim a whole host of other problems like:
- An inability to return to work
- Difficulty performing daily tasks
- Life-altering disabilities
- Shock
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Future medical needs
These consequences cause significant financial losses.
Who is Liable for the Losses?
Personal injury claims arise when one person’s recklessness causes injury to another. Bad motorcycle accidents are almost always caused by negligence.
Negligence means that one person failed to act with reasonable care. In a motor accident, this means the driver:
- Failed to maintain the speed limit
- Broke traffic laws
- Drove under the influence
- Drove distracted
- Failed to check blind spots
- Acted in a reckless manner
Courts assume all motorists have a duty to act with concern for other drivers. If they’ve breached this duty, then they’ll be liable for any damages.
When you’re behind the wheel, always obey the common road safety rules.
Common Damages in Personal Injury Claims
What types of damages can an injured victim pursue in court? Keep reading to learn the common damages associated with a motorcycle-related lawsuit.
Injured bikers seeking compensation often pursue losses associated with:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Future disability
- Loss of consortium
- Punitive damages
Your compensation award depends on the severity of your injuries.
Is a Lawsuit Worth it?
On the surface, your motorcycle injuries may not seem too debilitating. Upon closer inspection, a victim can get a clear image of how much the injury could impact their life.
Consider the total amount of property damage, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
Can you bear these costs alone? You have legal options available to ensure the responsible party covers these costs.
Have you ever experienced a motorcycle-related crash? Were you injured?
Contact us if you need help with your case.