While all auto accidents are serious, it’s important to understand that some, like those involving motorcycles, pose unique dangers. Unfortunately, if you have been injured in an accident, the damage you may sustain can leave a lasting impact. As such, the following blog explores some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents, the injuries that you can sustain, and the importance of working with an Ouachita Parish, Louisiana personal injury lawyer to help you navigate these overwhelming and difficult times.
How Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
As a motorcycle rider, understanding the most common causes of accidents is critical. This allows you the opportunity to recognize potential hazards to improve your chances of avoiding an accident.
Unfortunately, one of the most common causes of accidents involving motorcycles is driver negligence. Due to the size and speed of motorcycles, many drivers do not think to look for them or misjudge the distance when turning or changing lanes. This can result in serious injuries.
It’s also important to understand that road conditions can lead to a collision. Motorcycles do not have the same barriers that cars have, and the slightest deviation can result in an accident. For example, leaves in the road, standing water, or a downed wire, while not dangerous to a car, can result in a motorcycle losing control and the rider sustaining injuries.
What Kinds of Injuries Are Most Common?
It’s important to understand that there are several serious injuries that you can sustain. Unfortunately, one of the most common accidents you can sustain is a traumatic brain injury. This occurs when you sustain a violent blow or jolt to the head, resulting in your brain moving around the inside of the skull, where it can collide with the interior walls of your skull, sustaining damage. TBIs can cause a number of lifelong injuries, including impacted motor and speech skills.
You’ll also find that you can sustain road rash, which is a serious type of friction burn that you can sustain when your skin is rubbed against a rough surface, like the surface of a road. Because asphalt is rough, it essentially grinds away the different layers of your skin, resulting in serious issues.
Unfortunately, it’s important to note that despite the fact that motorcycles only make up around 3% of all registered vehicles, they account for 15% of all traffic fatalities. This is due in part to the fact that motorcycles, unlike cars, have no protective barrier to absorb some of the impact. As such, this means a motorcycle rider will be struck by the vehicle and then once again when the rider hits the ground.
If you have sustained a serious injury as a result of a negligent driver, taking the necessary steps to protect yourself is critical. As such, it’s imperative to connect with an experienced attorney with Breithaupt, DuBos, & Wolleson, LLC. Our team will examine your circumstances to help you fight for the best possible outcome for your situation. Contact us today to learn more.