What Type of Motorcycle Accidents are Typically the Most Serious?
When you decide to purchase a motorcycle, you are accepting certain risks on the road. Most vehicles are covered, providing a level of protection for the drivers should they get into a collision. However, when an accident occurs involving a motorcycle rider, they are far more exposed to danger since there is no protective frame surrounding them. Plus, small road hazards can affect a motorcycle more than other vehicles.
This makes motorcycle accidents far more serious than those involving commercial or passenger cars. More serious consequences like head injuries, internal bleeding, spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, and broken bones are common in motorcycle accidents. Bikers accept this additional risk whenever they head out on the road.
Some types of collisions are more serious than others in terms of motorcycle accident injuries.
Motorcycle Accident Types
Collisions with other vehicles, from small sedans to light trucks to 18-wheelers, can be incredibly dangerous for bikers. Let’s break down what types of accidents involving a motorcycle may occur and how serious they can be.
Left-Hand Turn Accident
Making a left-hand turn is typically more dangerous than a right-hand turn since you are likely doing so through oncoming traffic. This type of accident could be very severe. It could lead to the motorcyclist getting t-boned while crossing the lanes to enter the roadway on the left. Riding a motorcycle always involves some risk, so be especially careful when turning left.
Rear-End Collision
Many vehicle collisions occur as a result of tailgating. A driver is following the vehicle in front of them too closely and ends up hitting them when that vehicle slows unexpectedly. A rear-end collision is one of the most common motorcycle accidents in which a rider can become an injured motorcyclist. While they often occur at lower speeds and are therefore less likely to cause life-threatening injuries, they can still lead to common injuries like bone fractures, internal injuries, lower extremity injuries, minor head injuries, and road rash.
Lane-Splitting Accidents
Since motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, riders will sometimes navigate through slow or stopped lanes of traffic by riding between the lanes. This is known as lane-splitting. It is a practice that motorcycle riders should avoid unless necessary. All it takes is for one vehicle to make an unexpected lane switch or even for a car door to open for a motorcycle crash to occur. Since motorcycle lane-splitting typically occurs at low speeds, this collision may not be as dangerous as others.
Head-On Collision
The most dangerous type of motorcycle crash is head-on collision. In general, a head-on collision involving any type of vehicle can lead to serious injuries sustained or even death. This is even more dangerous for motorcyclists who lack the protection of a normal vehicle. This incident could cause a traumatic brain injury, a spinal cord rupture, broken ribs, chronic pain, permanent disability, or death. You could be wearing all the protective gear necessary for a motorcyclist, including a helmet and leather clothing, but the combined speed of the two vehicles in the crash is simply too much.
Motorcycle Accident with a Truck
Another very dangerous motorcycle accident for riders is one involving a truck or larger commercial vehicle. The sheer weight difference between the two is enough to put the motorcyclist at increased risk of spinal injuries or other injuries that are more severe. Accident victims can even be decapitated if they end up underneath a tractor-trailer.
What Motorcycle Riders Should do After an Accident
It is important to understand the steps that should be taken if you are injured in a motorcycle accident. Depending on the severity of the collision, you may not have the capacity to do each step but move through this process if possible.
Collect Information at the Accident Scene
Every motorcycle accident case becomes a little easier when you have as much information as possible. After the motorcycle crash, try to collect data from the other drivers involved, such as insurance, a photo of the driver’s license, and their contact information. If possible, take pictures of the scene and ask for a copy of the police report once it is completed. The more information you have, the easier it will be to handle insurance payouts.
Have Motorcycle Accident Injuries Treated
Even if you walked away from the motorcycle accident, you may have sustained more serious injuries that are not immediately evident. Try to schedule a checkup as soon as possible whether you were treated at the scene of the accident or not. It is important to know if you are dealing with any hidden injuries like internal bleeding or spine injuries.
File a Motorcycle Accident Claim
If you believe that you are the victim of a negligent driver and have to deal with damages that resulted from your injury, you should contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your claim. Motorcycle accident victims have the right to pursue maximum compensation if the other driver is responsible for the incident. Damages may include medical bills, lost wages or lost income, property damage, or emotional suffering. With the help of an attorney, you can pursue a motorcycle accident lawsuit to win a settlement, cover those damages, and secure your financial future. A motorcycle accident lawyer often works on a contingency fee basis, so they will get paid if you win the case. They are also equipped to negotiate with insurance adjusters and earn a fair payout from the insurance company.
Understand the Risks of Riding a Motorcycle
Before you are ever involved in motorcycle crashes, you must know the risks that motorcycle riders face while on the roads, of which there are many.
Protective Gear
Since you are more exposed, motorcycles tend to be a greater risk for injuries. Make sure that you understand helmet laws and always wear the proper clothing and gear to protect yourself.
Car Drivers May Not Always See You
Since you are riding a smaller vehicle, it can be difficult to spot you for other drivers, especially if you are in their blind spots. Be aware of your surroundings and don’t assume that everyone can see you.
Protect Yourself and Your Future
Whether you own a common motorcycle or multiple supersport bikes, you must understand the dangers of these vehicles. Observe the rules of the road, be cautious around other vehicles, wear safety gear, and contact a law firm for a free case evaluation if you are pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.
