Current data in the United States indicate that people riding motorcycles are 37 times more likely to die and 9 times more likely to suffer severe injuries in accidents than occupants of cars and other motor vehicles.
As more sophisticated and higher-speed motorbikes are sold, NHTSA statistics show an increasing number of motorcyclist deaths, reaching a high of 4,667 in 2012. The risks of riding a motorcycle far outweigh benefits (rider satisfaction and lower fuel costs) that motivate people to purchase a motorbike.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Speeding, alcohol use, defective equipment, and collisions are common causes of motorcycle accidents. The fatal ones, however, are often due to crashing into another car or motor vehicle at an intersection such as when a car is turning left while a motorcycle is going straight or passing by.
If you are involved in this type of motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Motorcycle Rider Safety — What Really Works
Wear a helmet: Common injuries arising from motorcycle accidents include head and brain injuries leading to permanent disability and death. In Nevada, motorcyclists and riders are required to wear helmets that meet safety requirements. The American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons confirms that using the prescribed helmet significantly reduces risk of head trauma and death in motorcycle accidents.
Look for Anti-Locking Brake systems: Anti-locking brake systems (ABS) prevent wheels from locking up while braking, preventing the vehicle from skidding and the cyclist from losing control. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also confirms this, stating in its website that ABS motorcycles have 35% less collision claims than non-ABS motorcycles.
Other types of injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents include fractures of the leg, arms, wrists and spine, concussions, and abdominal injuries.
Your motorcycle accident lawyer can help you recover compensation for your medical bills, ongoing treatment, physical therapy and rehabilitation, lost income, disability and pain and suffering.
In the state of Nevada and the greater Las Vegas metropolitan area, the law firm of Bertoldo, Baker, Carter & Smith has the skills and experience in accidents, helping clients obtain the maximum amount of compensation that they deserve. Filing your motorcycle injury claim at the earliest time is crucial.
