Motorcycle Accidents – Common Injuries and Causes

Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, and are often more so than car accidents; motorcyclists are nearly 26 times more likely to lose their lives in an accident than passengers of cars and five times more likely to suffer an injury. Motorcyclists contend with unique risks and dangers on the road and are more vulnerable than cars to common dangers:

• Visual Recognition

Motorcyclists risk going unseen by other cars, often by being hidden within blind spots if proper precautions are not taken; road and weather conditions may also be factors. This is a common problem at intersections, especially at night.

• Road Hazards

Minor irritations for four-wheeled vehicles can pose serious risks to two-wheeled vehicles. These include debris in the roadway, oil slicks, pot-holes, railroad tracks, ruts, and uneven pavement.

• “Speed Wobble”

This refers to unstable shaking or wobbling of the motorcycle’s front end at high speeds, which may be caused by misalignment of the front and rear tires. In these cases, the motorcycle’s manufacturer may be held liable for any injuries sustained in an accident.

• Skills/Experience

A rather startling percentage of motorcycle accidents involve individuals who are “self-taught” and have limited experience. There is much more skill and coordination involved in operating a motorcycle than a car, and the education, training, and experience required to do so must be accordingly intensive. Common motorcycle injuries include:

• Road Rash

Motorcyclists can suffer serious skin abrasion, bruising, and tearing when falling off their bikes to the ground at a high speed. To protect against this, riders are advised to wear thick clothing/sleeves, particularly denim or leather. There is a variety of clothing designed specifically to protect motorcyclists’ exposed skin, as well.

• Bone Fractures

Fractured bones may occur in high-speed collisions between motorcycles and other vehicles or fixed objects; finger, hand, and wrist injuries are particularly common when riders fall at high speeds and attempt to break their falls.

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) Although wearing a helmet when riding a motorcycle is always advised, it is not required by law in every state (Illinois does not have helmet laws). Motorcyclists who are not wearing helmets at the time of an accident are far more likely to suffer traumatic brain injuries, skull fractures, and even death resulting from these injuries. Many who sustain TBIs are unable to return to work and may never make full recoveries, while others may have the good fortune to avoid permanent damage and move on with little to no recurring symptoms. Wearing a helmet is strongly advised to minimize the risks of such injuries should you ever be involved in an accident on the road.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact the Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorneys at 844 See Mike for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.