Recovering Damages in a Motorcycle Accident
As California's shelter at home order begins to lift slowly, more and more motorcycle riders are using this time of fewer cars on the road to go for longer joy rides. Motorcycling riding is also an activity individuals can enjoy while engaging in social distancing, meaning its popularity is increasing.
Even though there are less cars on the road, motorcycle accidents in Los Angeles can still happen. Indeed, in some ways the risks are even greater, as some riders push for faster speeds and more thrilling canyon rides. If you or a loved one is injured in a Los Angeles motorcycle accident that was not your fault, know that the law and our experienced team of accident attorneys are on your side.
Motorcycle accident risks
Motorcycles can be fast and exhilarating to ride and with this adrenaline rush comes a risk of injury. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents often result in higher numbers of fatalities and long-term injuries than other types of automobile accidents. Additionally, the motorcycle's smaller size and lack of a protective "shell", so to speak, opens it up to increased accident risks. These risks, while known, do not take away from the fact that if you are injured in an accident that is not your fault, you should be able to recover financial compensation.
Dealing with the mental, emotional, and physical recovery after a crash is undoubtedly a stressful time for the victim and their loved ones. The right accident attorneys will help take some of the stress off your plate while fighting for you to recover the financial compensation you deserve.
Recovering damages for a motorcycle accident
If a motorcyclist is not at fault for the accident, he or she should not be required to bear the financial consequences. Motorcycle accidents often result in costly personal injuries and serious property damage, such as to your bike. The types of damages recoverable after a personal injury accident include medical bills, lost wages, physical therapy, emotional distress, and more. An experienced accident attorney will be able to review the facts of your case and help you determine what your case may be worth.
For a free, no obligation consultation, contact the experienced attorneys at Ghozland Law Firm today.
Motorcycles are much less stable where there is inclement weather or poor road conditions. Slippery roadways or intense weather may make a motorcycle less stable and reduce visibility. Potholes or debris on the road are more likely to jar a motorcycle or send it off course when compared to passenger vehicles.
Maintenance
Motorcycles, like all motor vehicles, require regular maintenance. A failure to prioritize regular maintenance can greatly increase the risk of an accident. It is important to pay special attention to the tires, brakes, and drive chain. For example, a poorly maintained drive chain can cause inconsistencies with the back wheel of the bike. Inconsistencies in wheel alignment make operating the motorcycle very dangerous.
Lack of Proper Education
Underlying all the above risk factors is the need for proper education and training for motorcycle drivers. One-third of all motorcyclists killed in crashes are either improperly licensed or not licensed at all. Even properly licensed drivers fail to receive formal training. Many motorcyclists are self-taught or learn to ride through lessons from family or friends. A lack of proper defensive driving techniques can increase the likelihood of the rider’s involvement in an accident.
What Are Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents?
Unfortunately, serious injuries and fatalities are much more common in motorcycle accidents than other motor vehicle accidents. Given the less protective nature of motorcycles, the injuries suffered are often much more extensive and likely have lifelong implications.
Statistics on Motorcycle Fatalities and Injuries
Statistics gathered by the Insurance Information Institute (III) show that fatalities and injuries are significantly more likely to occur when a crash involves a motorcycle. In fact, data from 2016 shows that motorcyclists were 28 times more likely to die in a crash. The statistics compared deaths of motorcyclists and passenger car occupants per mile traveled by each type of vehicle. Shockingly, only 14 percent of motorcycle crashes do not involve a fatality or injury.
The following statistics demonstrate the potential risks associated with motorcycle accidents:
- There were 5,286 fatalities associated with motorcycle accidents. The number represents 60 deaths for every 100,000 registered motorcycles. Sixty deaths may not initially seem like a large number. However, when compared to the number of fatalities with passenger cars, which is slightly below 10, the increased danger for motorcyclists is apparent. The statistics reveal that motorcyclists are 6 times more likely than passengers in cars to die in a crash.
- There were 88,000 injuries as a result of motorcycle crashes. To put this in context, this is over 1,000 injuries for every 100,000 registered motorcycles.
One may think the number of fatalities and injuries would decrease over time with advances in helmet and safety technology. Unfortunately, advances in technology, alone, cannot make the roadways safer for motorcyclists. The number of fatalities resulting from motorcycle crashes in 2017 was double the number of fatalities reported in 1997.
