Obtaining Compensation for Damages in Motorcycle Accidents

Of all operators of motor vehicles, no one stands to incur more bodily harm than motorcycle drivers. There are no airbags, no side protection, and no roof to secure their safety and well-being in the event of a high-speed accident. Ideally, motorcycle drivers should be extra careful on the roadways, right?

Unfortunately, not all motorcycle drivers observe proper conduct and diligence while on the street. Without regard for their safety and that of others as well, they recklessly maneuver through the roadways. Much like a speeding four-wheel vehicle, they emerge out of nowhere when other people least expect it, causing a whole lot of trouble for everyone else. And like their four-wheeled counterparts, motorcycles too can cause severe injury and damage.

On the other hand, motorcycle drivers also fall victim to the reckless or negligent manner of driving by others. In many cases, it ends with serious injuries or even death.

What Are the Contributing Factors That Lead to Motorcycle Accidents?

Because of their smaller frame, motorcycles can easily slip through traffic. This mobility is very inviting for reckless behavior. Which is why these motorized vehicles are more prone to road hazards and accidents compared to their four-wheeled counterparts.

Did you know the majority of roadway accidents in the State of Nevada involve motorcycles? According to the Nevada Department of Transportation, there are more deaths and injuries involving motorcycles than crashes involving just sedans, SUVs, and trucks.

The statistical discrepancies are shockingly high. Close to 80 percent of motorcycle accidents involve serious bodily injuries (only 37 percent in accidents). The fatality rate in motorcycle accidents is roughly 5 percent; it’s just 0.25 percent for car accidents. The average annual increase in the rate of motorcycle accident injuries is about 15 percent.

So what are the factors that increase the likelihood of motorcycle accidents from happening?

The Human Factor

Human error accounts for many vehicular accidents these days. Drunk driving tops the list of motorcycle accidents. Did you know 26 percent of motorcyclists involved in vehicular accidents had drivers with a high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level? In a lively city such as Las Vegas where alcohol is flourishing, this is a problem.

Intoxication usually goes hand in hand with poor judgment. Which probably explains the correlation between drunk driving and excessive speeding. With higher speed comes greater impact in the event of a collision. This also means more severe injuries, including a higher risk of death among the parties involved.

Distracted driving is another contributing factor in motorcycle accidents. Taking the eyes or hands off the road or lacking the presence of mind during driving can lead to a greater chance of roadway accidents. Whether driving a motorcycle or operating a four-wheeled vehicle, it is crucial that the driver pays extra attention. Thus, avoid texting while driving or looking around while the car is in motion.

Finally, rider inexperience is an all too common cause of motorcycle accidents. Many people think it is exactly as simple as riding a bike. Well, it’s not. There are many factors to take into account when operating a motorcycle. Among them are the safety measures, which every rider must know to protect oneself as well as ensure the safety of others on the roadway.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you or your loved ones are involved in a motorcycle accident, you are entitled to seek compensation for damages by filing the appropriate case in court against the erring party. For this reason, get in touch with a motorcycle accident attorney to help you pursue your legal action.