While motorcycle accidents may not be the most frequent type of motor vehicle crashes, they often result in more severe injuries and damage compared to typical traffic collisions. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PA DOT), the state sees 3,580 motorcycle crashes each year, leading to over 220 rider fatalities and numerous serious injuries. Rear-end impacts account for approximately one-third of all traffic crashes, posing a particularly dangerous situation when motorcycles are involved. Despite these risks, Pennsylvania laws provide avenues for seeking compensation, and a skilled Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process. To gain a better understanding, let’s delve into some key aspects of rear-end motorcycle accidents.
Common Causes Behind Rear-End Motorcycle Crashes
While there are various specific reasons for these collisions, the underlying cause of most traffic accidents is driver negligence. Negligence extends beyond mere carelessness in the legal context and requires proving that the at-fault driver failed to operate their vehicle safely, resulting in the motorcycle crash.
Some examples of driver negligence that commonly lead to rear-end crashes include:
- Running red lights and stop signs.
- Speeding.
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Failure to yield right of way, which can be a significant issue with motorcycles due to limited visibility.
- Distracted driving, such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using a GPS.
Serious Injuries for Motorcycle Riders
Riders involved in rear-end motorcycle accidents often suffer devastating injuries due to the absence of a protective metal shell. Several factors contribute to the severity of these injuries. Firstly, the weight disparity between a typical passenger vehicle and a motorcycle amplifies the impact on the rider. Additionally, there is usually a secondary impact when the rider is thrown off the motorcycle after the initial collision, resulting in further injury upon hitting the ground or another hard surface.
As a result, motorcycle riders may experience the following injuries:
- Head injuries, including concussion, penetrating head injury, and traumatic brain injury (TBI).
- Spinal cord injuries, herniated and bulging discs.
- Broken bones, sprains, strains, and lacerations.
- Amputation.
- Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries.
In addition to these injuries, many motorcycle riders suffer from road rash, a unique injury caused when exposed skin skids along the surface of cement or asphalt. Road rash is a combination of burns and abrasions, resulting in excruciating pain and scarring for the victim.
Seeking Legal Guidance
Understanding the potential for serious and catastrophic injuries resulting from motorcycle crashes highlights the importance of asserting your rights. If you require assistance with the legal process, please contact the Quinn Law Group in Philadelphia. By calling (215) 360-3666 or visiting our website, you can arrange a free case evaluation with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. After reviewing your circumstances, we can provide further information about your available remedies and guide you through seeking the compensation you deserve.
