Motorcycle Accidents
Many people enjoy the freedom of riding a motorcycle. With high performance capabilities and much smaller frames, riders take to the open roads on motorcycles every day. Unfortunately, although motorcycles only account for a fraction of all motor vehicles, motorcycle accident fatalities accounted for nearly 13% of all traffic fatalities in 2015. The sad reality is the majority of motorcycle accidents could be avoided if other drivers exercised caution.
Causes of Motorcycle Crashes
While some motorcycle crashes are single vehicle accidents, other drivers cause the majority of bike accidents. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle wrecks include:
- Passing too close to motorcycles
- Not signaling when turning
- Changing lanes without looking for motorcycles
Why Are Motorcycle Accidents So Deadly?
Unlike cars and other types of passenger vehicles, motorcycles do not offer any protection to riders in the event of an accident. This means motorcycle accidents usually cause much more serious injuries than other types of motor vehicle crashes.
The most common types of injuries caused by motorcycle accidents include:
- Road rash
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Neck and spinal cord injuries
- Back injuries
- Paralysis
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
Serious injuries like these can place a huge financial burden on the victim and his or her family. Many victims of motorcycle accidents suffer permanent injuries limiting their earning ability or completely preventing them from working.
Who Is Most At Risk?
While anyone can be injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, statistics from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) show men made up 91% of motorcycle accident fatalities in 2015. Of these fatalities, 30% were males under the age of 29 and 35% were males over the age of 50.
Houston Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Regardless of who is riding a motorcycle or how an accident happens, all motorcycle riders have rights. Many people wrongfully assume motorcycle riders accept additional risks when they choose to ride, but motorcycle riders have the same rights as any other motorist. If you or someone you love was injured or killed in a Houston motorcycle accident, you deserve to hold the negligent party responsible. Call a Houston motorcycle accident lawyer at Nabers Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.