According to studies done by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a motorcyclist’s risk of a fatal accident is 35 times greater than that of a driver of a passenger car. Additional data shows that there are over four million motorcycles registered. Motorcycle accident fatalities represent about five percent of all highway fatalities each year, but motorcycles only represent two percent of all registered vehicles on the road.
One of the main reasons motorcycle crashes can be fatal is the lack of protection. Approximately 80 percent of reported motorcycle crashes result in injury or death. To put this in perspective, reported auto accidents are 20 percent. Motorcycles offer very little protection, and wearing a helmet is about the only thing a cyclist can do to protect himself.
Injuries That Result From Motorcycle Accidents
Victims of motorcycle crashes will often sustain severe injuries to the head, brain, spinal cord, and neck. These types of injuries can require constant medical care and treatment and permanently change the victim’s quality of life. In almost all motorcycle accidents that occur, the rider will suffer some sort of injury. If you were hurt due to the negligence of another person, it’s important to consult with an experienced Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer at the Heslin Law Firm to recover financial compensation that helps pay for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering, and more.
Statistics For Motorcycle Accidents
- In 2006, 88,000 motorcyclists were injured in highway accidents alone.
- Eleven percent of all roadway collisions that occur in the United States involve motorcycles.
- A motorcyclist not wearing a helmet is 15 percent more likely to suffer a nonfatal injury than one who wears a helmet.
- Forty-two percent of two-vehicle fatal motorcycle accidents involved a vehicle turning left while the motorcycle was going straight, passing, or overtaking the vehicle.
Negligent drivers who cause motorcycle crashes can be held responsible for the damages they cause, including medical expenses for sustained injuries, compensation for lost wages due to the inability to work, and/or property damage. To recover compensation for injuries after a motorcycle accident, you must prove that the accident was caused by the other driver. An investigation conducted by an experienced motorcycle crash attorney is necessary due to the complicated process of determining fault. Call us if you have questions about repairing your motorcycle, dealing with insurance adjusters, paying medical bills, documenting lost work, and getting a fair settlement.
What to Do After a Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident
- Do not leave the scene of the accident without getting as much information as you can. Even if the motorcycle accident is minor and both parties agree everything is okay, it’s best to take notes as a safety precaution.
- Assess the damage. Even if it doesn’t appear that you or the other driver has serious injuries, it’s best to seek medical attention right away. There may be some sort of internal injury, which demands immediate medical attention.
- While at the scene of the accident, never admit blame or apologize for damage, even if you believe it was your fault. Statements you make at the scene can and will be used against you when you’re attempting to file a claim for financial compensation. Exchange information politely, and go through the necessary motions.
- To file an accident report, contact the police department closest to your location. This will be beneficial later on when you present your case.
- When you and the other driver are in a safe area, politely ask the other driver for his personal information. This will include contact information, car registration, and insurance documentation. If there are witnesses at the scene, make sure you get their information, as well.
- Taking pictures of both vehicles and the scene of the motorcycle accident is very important. Take pictures of street signs, the condition of the road, or street lights. Having pictures will help you remember every detail of the motorcycle accident and will be useful when presenting your side of the story.
Determining Liability
Before pursuing compensation for a motorcycle accident, you have to identify who or what is legally liable for the crash. Some possible parties responsible other than the driver could include:
- An employer. If, for example, the motorcycle crash was caused by a driver who was performing work duties, such as a truck driver for a company, the employer of that driver can be liable for damages.
- A government agency. Dangerous road conditions that involve construction, maintenance, or bad design can leave a government agency responsible for your collision. Filing for a claim against the government can be complicated, so it’s best to consult with a lawyer.
- A manufacturer. A defective motorcycle design can cause devastating accidents. The manufacturer or retailer can be held responsible for damages.
We Offer Free Consultations to Motorcycle Accident Victims
Unfortunately, many motorcycle accidents will result in death. You have the right to recover financial compensation for medical and funeral expenses, and when you hire an experienced Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer at the Heslin Law Firm, we will do everything possible to ease the burden of having unpaid bills. Once hired, we will proceed with an investigation and hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence. Contact our office today for a free consultation.