South Florida Injury Lawyer Blog
Since Florida is warm most of the year, we see motorcycles on the road almost year-round. This means we have a large number of motorcyclists but unfortunately, this also means that we are one of the leading states for motorcycle accidents involving injuries and deaths.
To a biker, a motorcycle represents more than just a way to get from Point A to Point B. To a biker, the motorcycle represents freedom – not in a rebellious sense, but in the sense of feeling the wind rushing by and the road under your wheels. Riding requires the use of your muscle groups, heightened awareness, and thought, while at the same time providing a sense of peace and relaxation. Even if it’s just a short ride to work, every ride feels like an adventure.
Unfortunately, riding a motorcycle is also more dangerous than driving a car, and too many bikers are involved in an accident at some point in their lives. In 2018, motorcyclists in the United States were involved in approximately 79,000 crashes involving injury, and an additional 5,000 involving a fatality.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Here are some interesting statistics about motorcycle accidents:
- 75% of motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle
- 2/3 of motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle violating a biker’s right-of-way
- Most accidents occur in intersections, often when another vehicle turns in front of a motorcyclist or stops or starts suddenly
- Lack of attention is one of the most common causes of accidents with motorcycles, often because the other driver did not notice the motorcycle
- 2% of accidents are caused by road damage, potholes, or pavement ridges
- 3% of accidents are caused by vehicle failure or malfunction of the motorcycle
- 81% of injured motorcyclists are male
- The average speed of the motorcycle during an accident is less than 30 mph
Common Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
Since the bodies of their vehicles do not protect motorcyclists, injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents are prevalent. The most common injuries from a motorcycle accident include:
- Injuries to the lower body: lower leg, ankle, foot, knee, and thigh (almost half of all injuries)
- Road rash, open wounds, and contusions
- Spinal injuries: slipped discs, nerve damage, temporary or permanent paraplegia, quadriplegia, or limitation of movement
- Thoracic (chest area) damage: shoulder, rib cage, back, punctured organs
- Death
While automobile accidents can involve these injuries as well, motorcyclists often experience more serious injuries because of their complete exposure to the elements. They often need longer and more complex medical services or interventions.
Contact an Attorney
Since most motorcycle accidents involve error on the part of another vehicle operator, road damage, or equipment malfunction, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible if you or a loved one has experienced injury or death due to a motorcycle accident. As an experienced personal injury lawyer in the state of Florida, I will work hard for you to uncover every possible cause of your accident, determine what party or parties demonstrated negligence that contributed to the accident, and fight until you receive the compensation you need to heal as much as possible and have a better, healthier future. Call me today at (954)448-7288.