With the wind blowing in your hair and the highway stretching out before you, it is hard to think about the risks that come with riding a motorcycle. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are vulnerable to serious accidents during traffic collisions. This article will explain more about the risks motorcyclists face on the road and tell you why a Providence personal injury lawyer is indispensable if you find yourself involved in a motorcycle accident.
Why are motorcyclists more at risk on the road?
Whether you ride a Kawasaki racing bike or a Harley-Davidson cruiser, motorcyclists are inherently more at risk on the road compared to drivers of cars for several reasons. Unlike cars, motorcycles do not have a shielding frame around the rider or airbags that can help absorb the force of an impact. This exposure means that motorcyclists are prone to suffer severe injuries or fatalities in an accident.
Visibility, or the lack thereof, is another critical factor. Because of their size, motorcycles easily fall into the blind spots of larger vehicles. This is particularly dangerous at intersections, during lane changes, or when vehicles are merging. Additionally, road hazards such as potholes, slippery surfaces, and debris that may be merely inconvenient to a car can pose grave dangers to a motorcycle.
Moreover, there is a psychological aspect where some drivers may not give motorcyclists the same respect or attention on the road as they do to other larger vehicles, leading to aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating or sudden lane changes. They may also simply not expect a motorcycle to be on the road due to the lower ratio of motorcycles to cars.
What are the consequences of a motorcycle accident?
The consequences of a motorcycle accident are often more serious than you think. The lack of a protective barrier around the rider means that riders absorb the full impact of a collision. Riders can suffer a range of injuries, from road rash to broken bones, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries—even while wearing protective clothing and a helmet.
Another common outcome of a motorcycle accident is psychological trauma. Survivors may experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or fear of riding again. These psychological impacts can be as debilitating as physical injuries, affecting the rider’s quality of life and ability to return to work. Dealing with insurance and the legal process can also add to emotional and mental strain,
Last but not least, motorcycle accidents can have significant financial impacts. The costs of medical treatment, motorcycle repairs, and loss of income can accumulate quickly. In cases of severe injury, there may be ongoing medical expenses and the need for long-term care, further escalating the burden. Undertaking legal action may also add strain on finances, unless the attorney works on a contingency basis.
What to do if you have been in a motorcycle accident
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, there are certain steps you can take immediately afterward to significantly improve your physical recovery, legal rights, and chances of financial compensation.
1. Protect Yourself
Get out of the immediate crash area and move to a safe location if you can do so without causing further injury. Turn off your motorcycle to prevent any risk of fire. If it is safe, set up flares or reflective triangles to warn other road users. Call 911 to notify the police and medical services as soon as possible. A police report will be valuable for insurance claims and any legal actions.
Even if injuries seem minor, visit a healthcare provider promptly for a thorough examination. Some injuries may not show immediate symptoms but could have long-term impacts. For example, internal bleeding can be hard to diagnose without proper medical evaluation but can be life-threatening if left untreated. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice and keep records of all medical treatments and expenses.
2. Record the Event
If you are physically able to, take photographs, including the entire scene, all vehicles involved, road conditions, and injuries sustained. These details can be vital evidence for insurance claims and legal purposes. Obtain the names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle registration numbers of all parties involved. If there are witnesses, get their contact information and any photos they took as well.
Document everything resulting from the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, motorcycle repair costs, and any other financial impacts. This documentation will be central to seeking proper compensation for your losses. Be sure to inform your insurance company about the accident. Provide honest and factual information, but avoid admitting fault or speculating about the incident until you have legal advice.
3. Talk to a Lawyer
The aftermath of an accident can be complicated and confusing. It is a good idea to consult with an attorney, particularly one who specializes in personal injury and motorcycle accidents. They can provide valuable advice on how to navigate insurance claims, negotiate settlements, and protect your rights, especially if the accident happened due to someone else’s negligence.
Although a motorcyclist accident can have a huge impact on your life, taking the appropriate steps after the incident can protect you. Some attorneys work on a contingency basis, which means that you do not have to pay for their services until they win the case and secure compensation. If you need to pursue justice after a motorcycle accident, consider talking to an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as you can.
