Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries, even when it is a low-speed impact. Despite helmets and other types of protective gear, the impact of the large and heavy steel frame of a passenger vehicle is no match for a person on a bike. This is why it is particularly crucial for drivers to know how to share the road safely with bikers.
There are other factors that could also affect the likelihood of a motorcycle accident. For example, motorcycles may be less visible to other drivers, which may increase the chance of a driver coming too close, side-swiping the bike or hitting it directly. Often, collisions involving bikes and larger vehicles are the result of driver error or reckless actions, such as speeding or following too closely.
Why do these accidents happen?
Motorcycle crashes can happen for various reasons, and it takes a certain level of skill, practice and training to operate a bike safely. However, even the safest and most experienced biker is still vulnerable to the actions of others. Looking at accident statistics from the last few years, it appears that while the overall number of motorcycle accidents is decreasing, the number of fatalities from these accidents is increasing. The injury rate in bike accidents remains high. Consider the following:
- From 2015 t o 2016, the number of motorcyclist fatalities increased from 5,029 to 5,286.
- Statistics indicate that most motorcycle fatalities take place between the hours of 3:00 and 6:00 on weekday afternoons.
- Based on statistics from 2016, bikers were 28 times more likely to suffer fatal injuries in an accident that people who were occupants of passenger vehicles.
There are many factors that can increase the likelihood of a motorcycle accident. Drunk driving, distracted driving, speeding, aggressive driving and other things increase the chance that a driver will cause an accident involving a biker.
Are you a victim?
If you are the victim of a motorcycle accident, you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone. It can be confusing to determine exactly what happened and decide if you have grounds to move forward with legal action. Through a personal injury claim, you may be able to claim compensation for your losses and other damages you suffered.
An assessment of your case can help you understand if a civil claim is the appropriate course of action for you. If another Colorado driver caused your motorcycle accident, it is possible to seek justice and pursue the restitution you need to put your life back together and move forward.
