Motorcycle Accidents
A motorcycle rider is very vulnerable and an accident is much more likely to result in an injury. There are no airbags or crumple zones to absorb the impact. Some of the worst traffic accident injuries are those involving motorcycles. Because motorcycles offer little protection for their operators in comparison to cars and trucks, the fatality rate for motorcycle operators is significant. Every day motorcyclists on Canada’s roads and highways are severely injured or killed, often as a result of the negligence of other drivers. Car and truck drivers often don’t see motorcycles. No matter how careful the motorcyclist, accidents happen. When they do, the injuries are often catastrophic including head injury and traumatic brain injury.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash as a result of someone else’s negligence you are entitled to compensation for the damages you have sustained including past and future medical expense and past and future income loss, as well as pain and suffering. If a family member has been killed as a result of the negligence of another there is entitlement to compensation that will depend in part on your relationship to the person that lost their life and on other factors.
Frequent causes of motorcycle accidents
Motorcyclists are automatically placed at risk when they get on their bikes for a ride almost anywhere in Canada. Not only is the rider given minimal protection while operating their bike, but they are also incredibly difficult for other motorists on the roadways to see. The combination of a vulnerable rider with an unaware motorist can be fatal.
While a wide variety of factors typically contribute to a motorcycle accident, the following are the 6 most common causes:
- Speeding
- Poor weather conditions
- Driver distraction
- Inexperienced riders
- Driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
- Defects in the roadway
Sadly, motorcycle accidents often have far-reaching consequences for every person involved in the crash. From property damages to bodily injuries, the accident victims are often entitled to compensation from the at-fault party in the collision.
Common injuries
Both long term and short term injuries often result from motorcycle collisions. As stated earlier, motorcyclists are given minimal protection while operating their bikes. Riders may suffer from physical and mental injuries that may alter their lives permanently, especially those who travel without wearing additional protective gear such as jackets, boots, and gloves.
Common injuries following a motorcycle accident are broken bones, traumatic brain injury, internal injuries, neck and back injuries, paraplegia, concussion and whiplash.
Many of these injuries will require extensive healing times, some of which will remain as permanent injuries. In these situations, medical bills and expenses often become astronomical.
Cantini Law|Droit has been helping clients who have suffered injuries from motor vehicle accidents for over 28 years. Contact Us today at 1-800-606-2529. We have offices in Moncton, Saint John, Halifax and Charlottetown.
