Motorcycle accidents are among the most serious and life-threatening types of vehicle collisions, often resulting in severe injuries. In Forest Park, Ohio, a community known for its scenic roads and active motorcycling population, the risks associated with riding a motorcycle are ever-present.
If you or a loved one is facing the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to contact the legal team at Kruger & Hodges. We care about your well-being and will do everything we can to guide you through all the legal steps.
The Rising Concern of Motorcycle Accidents in Forest Park
Forest Park is a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and green spaces. The city’s roads, including major thoroughfares like Route 4 and Winton Road, see a significant amount of motorcycle traffic, especially during the warmer months. Unfortunately, this also means that motorcycle accidents are a frequent occurrence.
Unlike car drivers, motorcyclists have little protection in the event of a collision, making them more vulnerable to serious injuries. According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, motorcycle accidents account for a disproportionate number of traffic fatalities in the state. This trend is mirrored in Forest Park, where the combination of busy roads and sometimes inattentive drivers can create a dangerous environment for motorcyclists.
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Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents can help both riders and drivers in Forest Park be more vigilant and potentially avoid dangerous situations. Some of the most prevalent causes include:
- Driver Negligence: Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence of other drivers on the road. This can include failing to yield the right of way to a motorcyclist, changing lanes without checking for motorcycles, or running red lights and stop signs. Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, drivers may not notice them until it’s too late.
- Distracted Driving: The rise of mobile device use while driving has led to an increase in distracted driving incidents. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted may not see a motorcyclist in their path, leading to collisions. It also happens the other way around, motorcyclists manipulate their smartphones with one hand while riding their motorcycle with the other.
- Speeding: Both motorcyclists and car drivers who speed create dangerous conditions on the road. Speeding reduces the time available to react to hazards, and in the event of a collision, the impact is more likely to result in severe injuries or fatalities.
- Left-Turn Accidents: One of the most common types of motorcycle accidents occurs when a car makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. The driver may misjudge the speed of the motorcycle or fail to see it altogether, leading to a collision.
- Lane Splitting: Lane splitting, or riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, is illegal in Ohio. However, some motorcyclists still engage in this practice, which can be extremely dangerous. Drivers may not expect a motorcycle to pass them in this manner, leading to accidents.
- Road Hazards: Motorcycles are more susceptible to road hazards such as potholes, gravel, wet pavement, and debris. A minor hazard that might be a mere bump for a car can cause a motorcyclist to lose control and crash.
- Alcohol and Drug Use: Impaired driving is a leading cause of all types of motor vehicle accidents, including those involving motorcycles. Both motorcyclists and drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a significant risk on the road.
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The Serious Consequences of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protection that motorcycles offer. Some of the most common injuries sustained in these accidents include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even when wearing a helmet, motorcyclists are at risk of sustaining severe head injuries in a crash. TBIs can have long-lasting effects, including cognitive impairment, memory loss, and personality changes.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly altering a victim’s quality of life. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Broken Bones: The impact of a motorcycle crash can cause multiple fractures, particularly to the arms, legs, and ribs. These injuries may require surgery and lengthy recovery periods.
- Road Rash: When a motorcyclist is thrown from their bike, they may slide across the pavement, resulting in severe abrasions known as road rash. These injuries can be painful and may lead to infections or permanent scarring.
- Internal Injuries: The force of a motorcycle accident can cause internal injuries, including damage to organs, internal bleeding, and other life-threatening conditions.
- Fatalities: Tragically, many motorcycle accidents result in fatalities. The loss of a loved one in such an accident is devastating and can have far-reaching emotional and financial consequences for the surviving family members.
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The Legal Implications of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accident cases can be complex, and it is essential to contact a personal injury lawyer to take the proper steps to protect your interests.
- Determining Liability: One of the first steps in a motorcycle accident case is determining who is at fault. In many cases, the other driver may be found liable if they were negligent or violated traffic laws. However, there are situations where multiple parties may share responsibility, such as if a road hazard contributed to the accident.
- Comparative Negligence: Ohio follows the doctrine of comparative negligence, which means that if the injured motorcyclist is found to be partially at fault for the accident, their compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a motorcyclist was speeding at the time of the accident, they might be found partially responsible for the collision.
- Insurance Issues: Insurance adjusters may try to minimize the amount they pay out, especially if they believe the motorcyclist was partially at fault. Having an experienced attorney on your side can help you navigate these negotiations and ensure that you receive fair compensation.
- Damages: If you are successful in your motorcycle accident case, you may be entitled to various types of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and compensation for any long-term effects of your injuries. In cases of wrongful death, surviving family members may also be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related costs.
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Motorcycle Accident Lawyers In Forest Park Can Help You
A personal injury attorney will have a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by motorcyclists in Forest Park. They can provide personalized service and guide you throughout the legal process. Apart from hiring a lawyer, it’s important to follow these steps if you ever find yourself in these types of accidents:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine, it is essential to get checked by a medical professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Call the Police: A police report is a crucial piece of evidence in any accident investigation. Make sure the accident is reported, and try to get a copy of the report for your records.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take pictures of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This documentation can be invaluable for your case.
- Gather Information: Obtain the contact and insurance information of the other driver, as well as contact information for any witnesses. This information will be critical when filing a claim.
Conclusion
If you find yourself involved in a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance. The complexity of motorcycle accident cases requires the expertise of a skilled attorney who can fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move forward with your life. At Kruger & Hodges, our lawyers will be more than happy to help with your legal matters and get you the best possible outcome. Contact us now.
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