From cruising scenic roads to navigating busy streets, motorcycles offer a feeling of freedom that other vehicles can’t match. As they travel on two wheels, riders enjoy an experience that is both practical and exhilarating.
But significant risks come with that freedom. When a collision occurs, a motorcyclist is far more likely to suffer serious injuries than occupants of passenger vehicles. Understanding the reasons behind that can help riders and drivers make safer choices on the road.
Less physical protection
Motorcycles lack the protection found in cars. Drivers and passengers have safety features such as seat belts, airbags, reinforced frames and crumple zones, which are designed to absorb the force of an impact. Motorcycles have none of these protections.
In crashes, the rider’s body is more likely to absorb much of the impact directly. Even with helmets and protective gear, riders are still vulnerable to severe injuries.
In car accidents, occupants wearing seat belts are usually able to remain inside the vehicle. However, motorcyclists are often thrown from their bikes during a collision.
After they are thrown, they may strike another vehicle, guardrails, the roadway or other objects. Secondary impacts can increase the severity of injuries and lead to long-term disabilities.
One of the primary causes of motorcycle accidents is that drivers fail to notice riders. Inattentional blindness, which is the failure to notice something visible, occurs frequently, particularly at intersections and during lane changes.
Motorcycle accident victims often face lengthy recoveries involving surgeries, rehabilitation and time away from work. The costs associated with medical care and future treatments can quickly become overwhelming, especially when there is no income to cover them and other living expenses.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, Nevada’s comparative negligence rule means that you may still receive compensation, as long as you were not more than 50% responsible for the accident. However, any compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto motorcyclists, which means you need someone fighting for your rights. A legal professional can gather and present evidence on your behalf. With their help, you have a better chance of recovering the compensation you deserve.
