Motorcycle Accidents: The Dangers with Other Vehicles
Motorcycle accidents can be devastating and life-changing events. They can result in serious injuries, property damage, and even death. Despite these risks and more, many people continue to enjoy the freedom and exhilaration of riding motorcycles. With proper safety gear and caution on the road, riders can enjoy the many benefits of motorcycling while maintaining the safety of themselves and others on the road.
Nevertheless, no matter how protected motorcycle operators may be, they cannot control the negligence of the other vehicles on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger car occupants per mile traveled.
Motorcycle accidents in Maryland
Maryland is no stranger to motorcycle accidents, injuries, and fatalities. The most recent five-year average from 2017-2021 for motorcyclists involved in accidents was 1,322. Of these, 74 were fatal crashes, 947 were injury crashes, and 301 were property damage crashes. The majority of these incidents seem to occur between May and September, on Saturdays and Sundays, and between 2 PM and 5 PM. These statistics make sense, as these times are seemingly the most pleasant times to ride, and also when most cars are on the road.
Unfortunately, although cars are supposed to be more vigilant and share the road equally with motorcycles, not every driver is respectful toward them. As a general rule, cars are supposed to treat motorcycles as they would any other vehicle on the road and give them the same respect and consideration they would give to a car or truck. They are to provide them with plenty of space, look twice before turning, use their turn signals, never drive distracted, and more.
Injuries that can be sustained from a motorcycle accident
Motorcycle accidents can result in various types of injuries, depending on the severity of the accident. Despite wearing safety gear, motorcyclists face greater risks compared to car drivers, as they lack protective boundaries and don't have the same safety features that traditional vehicles would have. In the event of an accident, a motorcyclist can easily be thrown off their bike and sustain injuries such as broken bones, burns, road rash, disfigurement, and ligament damage, among others.
Other severe injuries include paralysis, severed limbs, and brain injuries that can result in long-term complications such as seizures, memory loss, and loss of motor control. Damage to the spinal cord can cause temporary or permanent numbness or even paralysis of the body. Other drivers must exercise caution and be alert for motorcyclists on the road, as a seemingly minor accident can lead to severe injuries.
Motorcycle accidents can also be very expensive
Apart from the risk of fatalities and physical harm associated with motorcycle accidents, they are also financially burdensome for several reasons. Firstly, the cost of purchasing a new motorcycle can range from $5,000 to $10,000 for beginners, while experienced riders seeking an upgraded model may spend between $10,000 to $35,000. Additionally, motorcycle accidents can lead to various costs such as medical bills, loss of productivity for injured employees, and unfortunately, loss of life. However, it is difficult to determine the precise cost for each victim, considering multiple variables. Nevertheless, motorcycle accidents can result in substantial expenses ranging from tens of thousands to millions of dollars.
How an experienced Maryland motorcycle injury attorney can help
Having a seasoned attorney at your side after a motorcycle accident is crucial. It will provide you with better chances towards your settlement, while also offering you more peace of mind as compared to trying to handle your potential claim alone. Your attorney will help investigate the accident and retrieve security footage when applicable. They will assist in building you the strongest case possible by investigating the existence of any witnesses, the scene of the accident, and your medical files. They will also help prepare you as much as possible for your hearing. An experienced attorney can help ensure that you do not give out too much information to insurance companies; remember, they’re just trying to find ways to get you to settle for less than what you deserve.
A motorcycle accident can leave a victim with debilitating injuries and trauma. They may feel very suffocated by the accident and the medical and legal processes that come after that. If you’re a motorcyclist in Maryland and you’ve been injured by another vehicle, contact us immediately. At Plaxen Adler Muncy, P.A., our experienced personal injury attorneys are ready to help you and answer any questions you may have. Call our office, or submit our contact form to schedule a free consultation today. We operate offices throughout Maryland to better serve you.
Joshua Plaxen graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park in 2008 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business, and graduated from the University of Baltimore School of Law in 2012 magna cum laude. He was also inducted into the Heuisler Honor Society for finishing in the top ten percent of his class. During law school, Joshua served on the Executive Board of the University of Baltimore Law Review.