Motorcycle accidents can have devastating consequences for riders
Motorcycling embodies a thrilling sense of freedom and adventure, but it also comes with risks due to negligent drivers. Every year, thousands of riders suffer injuries in motorcycle crashes, some of which can be severe or even fatal. May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month - a time to focus on why motorcycle riders make up a disproportionate percentage of traffic deaths and what can be done to prevent future crashes.
At Romanow Law Group in Pittsburgh, our motorcycle accident lawyers understand the challenges injured bikers face after a serious crash. If you were injured or a loved one died in a motorcycle accident, contact our law firm right away to see how we can help you pursue the justice and financial compensation you deserve.
Common motorcycle injuries
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, many of which could be mitigated or entirely prevented with more cautious driving from other road users. Common injuries bikers sustain in crashes caused by larger vehicles include:
- Head injuries. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries, but the actions of vehicle drivers can prevent these situations. Awareness, reducing distractions, and giving motorcyclists ample space can prevent collisions that lead to head traumas, including concussions and other types of traumatic brain injuries.
- Road rash. This can occur even at low speeds, leading to severe infections or the need for skin grafts. Drivers can help prevent these injuries by checking their blind spots and avoiding close proximities that might force motorcyclists to swerve or lay down their bikes to avoid a collision.
- Lower extremity injuries. A biker's legs and feet are vulnerable in a crash. Drivers should ensure they use turn signals and give motorcyclists the right of way when appropriate, significantly reducing the risk of side-impacting a motorcycle and causing lower-body harm.
- Spinal cord injuries. These devastating injuries can lead to paralysis or long-term mobility issues. They are often the result of high-impact collisions that can be avoided by drivers adhering to speed limits and maintaining a safe distance from motorcycles.
- Internal injuries. Caused by blunt force trauma, these injuries are life-threatening and may not be immediately apparent. Ensuring not to tailgate motorcycles and paying extra attention at intersections can reduce the risk of causing such injuries.
- Fractures and broken bones. Often resulting from the body striking vehicles or the road, these injuries can be mitigated by drivers being more vigilant, especially when making left turns or when motorcycles are navigating through traffic.
Safe ways to share the road with motorcycles
The injuries motorcyclists can sustain are profound and life-altering. However, many of these injuries are preventable with more thoughtful and attentive driving behaviors from those behind the wheels of larger cars and trucks:
- Stay alert. Give full attention to driving and avoid distractions. Recognizing the presence of motorcyclists and their vulnerability can significantly impact your driving choices.
- Respect motorcycle space. Understand that motorcycles require a full lane width, and their maneuverability is not an invitation to share their lane.
- Check blind spots. Always double-check blind spots before changing lanes or merging. Motorcycles have a smaller visual profile, making them easy to overlook without a careful check.
- Signal early. Use turn signals well in advance of making a turn or lane change. This gives motorcyclists time to adjust speed or position safely.
Pittsburgh motorcycle accident lawyers who get results
Drivers can significantly reduce the risk of causing motorcycle accidents and severe injuries. Every driver has a role in protecting the safety of motorcyclists, and through concerted efforts, we can all contribute to a safer road for everyone. At Romanow Law Group, we are always on the side of the injured victim. If you were injured or a loved one died in a motorcycle accident, you probably have a lot of legal questions. Contact us for a free case evaluation. We can listen to what happened, answer your questions, and explain your potential legal options.