The statistics for motorcycle mortality are shocking. It is common knowledge that it is risky business to ride a motorcycle as either a driver or a passenger. However, just because you choose to take on that risk does not mean that you are any less deserving of getting compensation for your injuries if they were caused by a negligent driver. Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys at Compass Law Group, LLP have had the pleasure of working with motorcycle riders who were victims of other vehicle drivers. Majority of motorcycle accidents happen because of cars and the statistics aren’t getting any better.
The most recent data for motorcycle accidents is 2017. In 2017, around 5,000 people died while riding their motorcycle. Even though this number was 300 lower than 2016, motorcyclists are still 28 times more likely to die from an accident than those in a car. Motorcyclists make up 14% of all motor vehicle fatalities which is up from 5.7% in 1994. This is a significant increase that should not be treated lightly. However, even though motorcycle accidents happen almost every day, there are miracle stories.
A Miracle Motorcyclist
A motorcyclist was hit head-on by a potential drunk driver around 2:45 AM Monday. The car, after hitting the motorcyclist, spun out and hit a concrete barrier. The motorcyclists were flung from their bike. When a bike is hit head-on or from the rear, the motorcyclist is typically flung from the bike resulting in traumatic injuries. This rider did not suffer that fate. Instead, the motorcyclist was taken to a nearby hospital with moderate injuries. Authorities stated that the motorcyclist is lucky to be alive.
This motorcyclist was the exception to the rule. The report didn’t state, but the rider more than likely had on a helmet. The Governors Safety Highway Association suggested that if all motorcyclist wore a helmet in 2016, around 802 lives could have been saved. Wearing protective gear is apart of the responsibility of riding a motorcycle. Common injuries on bikes include head trauma which can result in permanent brain damage, back or neck injuries which can result in paralysis, internal bleeding, road rash, broken or sprained limbs, disfigurement, and bruising. If you or someone you love has been hit while riding their motorcycle, they will need time for recovery. Taking time to recover means taking time away from work resulting in less income and increased medical bills.
What To Do
A vehicle driver’s simple error can turn into a motorcyclist’s worst nightmare. There are classes motorcyclists must take before they take the road, but they only teach so much. You can’t predict a drunk driver. You can’t predict a distracted driver. You can’t predict a malfunctioning bike. You can only control where you are at that moment. Everything else is a tragic accident. If an accident happens to you, please know that our Santa Clarita Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Compass Law Group, LLP are here to advocate for you.
