Being involved in any collision is almost always a harrowing experience. However, the outcome can be very different depending on the type of vehicle you’re in. For example, if you are riding a motorcycle and get hit by a car, you will, unfortunately, probably suffer severe injuries as a result. As such, it’s crucial to stay aware of how different a motorcycle accident is from a car crash before you get on a bike. If you’re injured, it’s essential to contact a Broward County motorcycle accident lawyer immediately to help you recover compensation.
How Are Motorcycle and Car Accidents Different?
It’s necessary to consider the significant differences between car and motorcycle accidents. Unfortunately, because motorcyclists do not have the material of a car to surround and protect them, they are much more vulnerable to the risk of catastrophic injury or death. This is illustrated by statistics, which show that despite making up just 3% of registered vehicles and .6% of miles traveled on the road, motorcyclists suffer fatal injuries 14% of the time they’re involved in a collision. It’s also important to consider that nearly 80% of accidents result in serious bodily harm to motorcyclists.
Because motorcyclists are much more vulnerable when on the road, they can suffer significant injuries if struck by another vehicle. This is because a car weighs more and can cause wheels to come out from under the motorcycle or launch the driver forward. As such, motorcyclists can suffer the following injuries:
- Broken bones
- Neck and spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Road rash
- Disfigurement
- Lacerations
- Amputation
- Wrongful death
What Should I Do If I’m Hurt In a Motorcycle Accident?
If you own and regularly operate a motorcycle, it’s first important to ensure you have the necessary protective equipment while riding. This includes a helmet, long pants, and a sturdy jacket. Though these may not prevent accidents, they can reduce the risk of injury in some circumstances.
In the event that you are involved in an accident, it’s essential to contact emergency services as soon as possible to report the collision. Not only will the police arrive to file a report, but 911 dispatchers will also send emergency medical technicians to your location to treat the injuries you sustained.
It’s critical to retain all documentation regarding your injury if you plan on suing the negligent party, such as photos and videos from the scene, the police report, medical records, and hospital bills. These can provide the necessary evidence to help you win your case.
Unfortunately, many who ride motorcycles have a negative reputation. At the Finizio Law Group, we believe everyone has the right to representation when they’re injured due to another party’s negligence. As such, we will work tirelessly to ensure no bias impacts the outcome of your case. Call our office today to learn how our dedicated legal team will fight for you.
