The Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Few things compare to the open road, especially when you’re riding a motorcycle. However, one wrong move by you or another motorist could cause a catastrophic injury or even death. Motorcycle crashes can happen in the blink of an eye—and the repercussions could be devastating and irreversible.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common injuries we see at Shapiro Law Team and how we can help you win maximum compensation following a motorcycle crash.

Arizona Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Did you know that motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to suffer from life-threatening injuries or fatalities than those who drive enclosed vehicles? In Arizona, Maricopa County tops the charts with an astounding 1,939 motorcycle crashes each year. Of that number, 1,619 riders were injured and 86 were killed. Most of these crashes resulted from left-hand turns and rear-end collisions.

Many of these motorcycle riders fall between the ages of 25 and 34.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

As a personal injury law firm, we see our fair share of motorcycle accidents. What we have found is that almost all motorcycle accidents can be tied to negligence. Below are several of the most common causes of motorcycle crashes we see at Shapiro Law Team.

• Cars Making Left-Hand Turns
  Left-hand turns are particularly dangerous for motorcycle riders. If a driver or another motorcyclist is making a left-hand turn without properly checking the flow of oncoming traffic, a motorcyclist could slam into the vehicle making the turn. These accidents are common and often happen when a motorcyclist travels through an intersection.
• Motorcycle Lane Splitting
  Even though lane splitting is legal in some states, it is illegal in Arizona. Lane splitting is when a motorcyclist rides down the center of traffic in between stopped or slow-moving vehicles. Many accidents happen as a result of lane splitting since a vehicle might not expect a motorcyclist to ride between lanes. If a vehicle tries to make a lane change while a motorcyclist lane splits, the consequences can be disastrous.
• Distracted Driving
  Distracted driving accounts for many of the motorcycle accidents we represent. If a driver is distracted, it means they’re taking their eyes off the road to either use their phone, eat or drink, reach for an object, adjust their GPS, or talk to other passengers. This increases the risk of a major collision with a motorcyclist.
• Driving While Impaired
  Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous for everyone on the road. It’s the leading cause of traffic accidents, injuries, and deaths in Arizona. When a driver is under the influence, they can’t make quick decisions resulting in delayed reaction times and impaired judgment. The reckless driving of an alcohol-impaired driver can lead to serious and fatal injuries for drivers and motorcyclists alike.
• Speeding
  Speeding is considered reckless driving. If a driver is driving beyond the legally posted speed limit, they will experience reduced reaction times. This can result in severe crashes between other vehicles and motorcyclists.

The Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Most Common Injuries in Motorcycle Crashes

Since motorcycles aren’t enclosed, injuries can happen anywhere on the body. Even the safest of helmets can fail if a crash is severe enough. From lacerations and broken bones to paralysis and traumatic brain injuries, the aftermath of a severe motorcycle accident can be devastating and life-changing.

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
  Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are the leading cause of death among motorcycle crash victims. If a victim survives a traumatic brain injury, they will likely face lifelong cognitive issues and motor impairments. Wearing a helmet minimizes the risk of a TBI; however, some motorcycle crash victims can still sustain a brain injury if the collision is catastrophic.
• Spinal Cord Injuries
  The spine protects the spinal cord, a column of nerves connecting your brain to the rest of your body. It’s also one of the most susceptible areas to injury during a motorcycle crash. When the spinal cord is injured, the victim often sustains lifelong and permanent injuries such as chronic nerve pain or paralysis. Spinal cord injuries can also result in the death of a motorcycle accident victim.
• Broken or Fractured Bones
  Many motorcyclists will sustain broken or fractured bones. Fractures are common and are typically not life-threatening. Areas where motorcyclists can sustain a fracture include the femur, forearms, and pelvis.
• Foot and Leg Injuries
  In addition to broken bones and fractures, motorcyclists often retain foot and leg injuries following a motorcycle accident. These types of injuries can range from bone fractures and burns to lacerations and severed limbs.
• Abdominal Injuries
  Other than bruising, abdominal injuries often go unnoticed until examined by a health professional. Abdominal injuries can range from a partial lung collapse or rib fracture to a heart laceration or other severe internal injury. These injuries are usually caused by blunt force trauma.
• Burns
  If gas spills during a motorcycle accident, the motorcyclist could suffer from second or third-degree burns. These burns often require extensive surgery, skin grafts, and a long recovery period.
• Muscle Injuries
  A motorcyclist might experience muscle damage if road rash is severe enough. That’s why it’s so important to wear the correct protective gear when riding a motorcycle. Armored jackets, hoodies, pants, and boots should all be worn to minimize the risk of road rash and muscle injuries.
• Hand and Arm Injuries
  When we fall, it’s our instinct to throw our hands and arms out in front of us. That’s why bikers often experience severe injuries to their hands and arms, especially if they’re not wearing the correct protective gear. Wearing protective gear and armored clothing is the best way to protect yourself against these types of injuries.
• Facial Abrasions and Lacerations
  Finally, a biker’s face might be injured following a motorcycle accident. Common facial injuries include abrasions, lacerations, jaw dislocation, and orbital bone fractures. Wearing a certified DOT-approved helmet can help lessen the severity of facial injuries.

Motorcycle Passengers Face High Risk of Brain Injury in Motorcycle Crashes

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 21% of non-helmeted motorcyclists suffer from traumatic brain injuries compared to 15% of helmeted motorcyclists. Wearing a helmet can be a life-saving decision; choosing not to wear one can result in permanent, lifelong injuries.

If a loved one has suffered from a TBI, contact Phoenix’s trusted motorcycle accident attorneys at Shapiro Law Team to begin building your case.

How to Prevent and Mitigate Motorcycle Accidents

Now that you know the most common motorcycle accident injuries, it’s time to be proactive. As a motorcyclist, you should take these steps to reduce your risk of getting injured:

• Always wear a helmet
• Ride defensively
• Wear appropriate gear such as long pants and boots
• Take motorcycle education and safety classes
• Perform regular maintenance on the motorcycle
• Ride a motorcycle appropriate for experience and skill level
• Abide by posted speed limits and obey the rules of the road
• Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles
• Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to contact motorcycle accident attorneys at Shapiro Law Team. David Shapiro will fight for your rights and do whatever it takes to win the compensation you need to change your life. Get started by contacting us for a free consultation.

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