Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road because they do not have a steel frame and other safety features afforded to other motor vehicles. While many motorcyclists are aware of this and are overly cautious, it only takes a single negligent driver to cause a motorcycle accident with catastrophic consequences.
At Oklahoma Injury Law, our Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyers help hold negligent drivers accountable when they injure motorcyclists. We help accident victims recover fair compensation. Our Oklahoma City personal injury attorneys work closely with motorcycle accident victims and understand how these crashes can affect them physically, emotionally, and financially. Let us help you navigate this difficult time and advocate for your rights.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Many motorcycle accidents happen due to the negligence of motorists. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Speeding – Speeding is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. When motorists speed, they have less time to stop once they notice a hazard. Injuries are also more likely to be severe.
- Left-hand turns – Many motorcycle accidents happen when a vehicle turns left into the pathway of an oncoming motorcyclist.
- Distracted driving – Motorists who are texting, talking on the phone, adjusting vehicle controls, eating, or grooming may not notice motorcyclists around them and may cause collisions.
- Impaired driving – Alcohol and drugs can impair a motorist’s coordination, reaction time, and decision-making skills.
- Unsafe lane changes – Because motorcycles are much smaller than other vehicles, motorists may not notice them in their blind spot. They may change lanes and hit a motorist in an adjoining lane.
Because motorcycles are lower to the ground and only have two wheels, they are also more susceptible to dangerous road conditions, such as potholes and debris.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycles – even at lower speeds – can cause serious or even catastrophic injuries due to the massive difference in the size and weight of a motor vehicle vs. a motorcycle. Some common injuries in motorcycle accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries, which can cause permanent brain damage and lead to long-term complications
- Spinal cord injuries, including injuries that paralyze the victim or cause significant nerve damage
- Road rash is a serious condition that occurs when the skin comes in contact with an abrasive surface, sometimes removing layers of skin, muscle, fat, and tissue
- Amputations, which can sever a body part due to the force involved in the crash
- Burns, which can occur when the bike or other hot object lands on the motorcyclist
- Broken bones, including in the pelvis and wrists
- Soft tissue injuries to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments
- Internal injuries, including bleeding and damage to the spleen, liver, or kidneys
Many of these crashes cause permanent scarring and disfigurement. They can also cause lasting psychological damage.
Financial Compensation for Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can cause significant injuries and damages. Personal injury victims can recover compensation for the following:
- Past, current, and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
An experienced Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyer can compile evidence of the full value of your case and relentlessly pursue the compensation you deserve.
Hurt in a Motorcycle Accident? Contact Oklahoma Injury Law for Legal Advice and Guidance
An experienced Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyer can guide you through the legal system. Contact us today and call (405) 310-8800 to learn more.