Posted in Motorcycle collision,Uncategorized on March 30, 2017
Motorcycles have been surging in popularity for the last decade. The number of registered motorbikes in the United States, including traditional bikes, 3-wheelers, pocket bikes, mopeds and scooters, has climbed by around two million units since 2006. There are now approximately 8.5 million registered motorcycles across the country.
Fairmont, West Virginia is a particularly fine place to own a bike. If you are a biker, the winding roads and stunning scenery provide great escapes for you, and the nearby I-79 allows you easy access to points north and south. Motorcyclists share these roads with other motorists, however, and sometimes accidents happen. Seldom do the outcomes favour the riders.
Statistical look at motorcycle accidents
In 2015, 4,976 motorcyclists died in traffic crashes. That number was up 8 percent from the 2014 total. Although only 3 percent of registered vehicles in the U.S. are motorcycles, a disproportionate 14 percent of all vehicular fatalities were motorcyclists. Here in West Virginia, 29 riders lost their lives in accidents in 2015.
Looking at non-fatal collisions, 88,000 motorcyclists suffered injuries in 2015 in motor vehicle accidents, a significant number despite a 3 percent drop from the previous year. Not surprisingly, a motorcyclist is about five times more likely to suffer an injury in a crash than is a passenger vehicle occupant.
Small protection leads to big injuries
Even if you are a rider who has the best riding gear, it will provide you with relatively minimal protection in an accident. Though a properly worn helmet offers a demonstrably effective amount of protection, sometimes it’s just not enough. In West Virginia, 78 percent of riders killed on the road were wearing helmets.
Motorcyclists are highly susceptible to serious injuries such as:
If you were a victim of a motorcycle crash and suffered serious injuries, they can have a long-lasting impact on both your life and your loved ones.
You may ride alone, but a partner can help with the legal battle
Recovery from a serious motorcycle accident can be slow and painful. Surgery may be required, along with an extended stay in the hospital. Major injuries could require ongoing treatment and therapy. The worst injuries may even limit your ability to care for yourself and to make a living.
If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident that was not your fault, you may be uncertain about your future. Talking with a truly caring personal injury lawyer might help to set your mind at ease. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can fight to help you arrive at the settlement you deserve for your pain and suffering.
