Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Personal Injury Law

Over the last few years, motorcycles have gained popularity among consumers because of rising gas prices. Unfortunately, the savings they gain on gas means a decrease in their personal safety. In many cases, the driver of the motorcycle is not to blame for the accident. Seeking the assistance of an experienced motorcycle accident attorney is very important if you have been injured in a motorcycle crash.

The Risks of the Road

Because of their size, motorcycles, and their riders, often do not get the respect they deserve on the road. Many drivers overlook them and do not understand that motorcycle drivers have the same rights to the road as other automobiles. This leads to an increase in accidents. Tragically, many of these accidents leave the victims severely injured, paralyzed, or fatally wounded.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that there were 5,290 motorcycle accident fatalities in the year 2008. There were also close to 100,000 non-fatal motorcycle accident-related injuries. This number has continued to rise for 11 consecutive years. In these fatal accidents, approximately half of the accidents involved another car.

Common Causes and Injuries

The most common causes of motorcycle crashes are:

Other vehicles - because of the small size of motorcycles, they do not offer other drivers as much visibility, especially if they are moving quickly.
Weather conditions – Because motorcycles weigh much less than a regular vehicle, they are much more susceptible to injury during bad weather conditions. Snow, ice, rain and strong winds are all serious hazards to motorcyclists.
Alcohol or drug use - Just like driving a car, alcohol and drugs impair the judgment and ability of motorcycle drivers, creating a much higher risk of an accident.
Speed - the laws of the road apply to motorcycles as well, including speed limits. Unfortunately because of the maneuverability of their bike, some drivers drive much faster than they should. High-speed crashes involving motorcycles can be especially destructive.

The most common injuries associated with motorcycle accidents are:

Road rash
Broken limbs
Neck and spinal cord injury
Traumatic brain injury
Severe bleeding

Avoiding Accidents

As a motorcycle driver, there are a few things that you can do to avoid accidents, such as:

Remembering that you can often be hidden in car or truck’s blind spot. Be careful to not ride in their blind spot to avoid being run into.
Always wear the appropriate protective gear, including a helmet. It is even better if your gear is in a bright color that can easily be seen.
Remember to use your turn signal when taking turns or changing lanes.
Avoid riding in and out of cars when stopped in traffic.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you should seek the help of an experienced motorcycle injury attorney. Please contact the office of Jacoby & Meyers, LLC today to set up your complimentary consultation. We have offices nationwide and are here to help you with your claim.

Jacoby

Jacoby & Meyers has offices and attorneys throughout the United States, with regional offices in Southern California, Arizona, Miami, and New York.