Many people enjoy riding on motorcycles as they feel a sense of freedom from the activity. Unfortunately, however, motorcyclists are at an increased risk of serious injury or death in the event they are involved in a collision. Motorcyclists simply have less protection in an accident than do people who are riding in other types of motor vehicles.
When a motorcycle crash occurs, cyclists have a 26 times greater likelihood of dying than people in cars. They are also five times likelier to be seriously injured. In two-thirds of motorcycle-vehicle collisions, the other motorist is at fault and violated the motorcyclist’s right-of-way.
Several factors can lead to the increased risk to cyclists. As they are simply smaller than other vehicles, they are likewise more difficult to see. Many motorists are involved in collisions with motorcyclists when the motorist turns left across a highway, failing to notice an oncoming motorcycle when doing so. Around 70 percent of these collisions occur at intersections. Motorcycles also have wobble in their front tires at higher speeds, making it more likely the cyclist will lose control. Road hazards, such as potholes and others that are easy for vehicles to deal with are difficult for cyclists, and some cyclists are simply inexperienced and unable to drive defensively.
Motorcycle accident are often catastrophic, resulting either in death or lifelong disability. People who are seriously injured by negligent motorists in a motorcycle crash are often left with a stack of bills and expenses while also being left unable to work. Victims may recover damages by holding the motorist civilly liable for his or her negligence. Through filing a personal injury civil lawsuit against the driver, victims may recover compensation for the losses they have sustained, and a personal injury attorney may be able to help.