Statistics show that motorcycles only make up about 3% of all registered vehicles on the roadways. Yet, motorcycle accidents account for 14% of all fatalities sustained involving vehicle accidents and a large portion of injuries. These accidents can often be devastating, causing a significant loss for the driver, including costly medical bills, loss of ability to work, and, sometimes, chronic pain and suffering. If you are one of the many people that’s experienced a motorcycle accident, it is critical to know your rights when someone else causes that loss. Our motorcycle accident lawyers in Washington Court House, OH, can provide you with the support and guidance you need as you aim to recoup your losses.
There is no cost to you to reach out to Kruger & Hodges to learn more about your motorcycle accident rights. Our team will provide a free consultation to discuss your case.
Crash Statistics
The Department of Public Safety in Ohio reports that, in 2021, 11 motorcycle accidents occurred in Fayette County. Across the state, 212 motorcycle riders lost their lives in accidents. For many other people, serious accident injuries occurred, creating the need for surgeries, rehabilitation, pain, and long-term limitations on the quality of life.
Without a doubt, the loss of life is difficult for families, but often, the cause of that loss is not the rider’s fault but another person’s. When that is the case, it is critical to seek out the help of an experienced team of motorcycle accident lawyers in Washington Court House, OH, who can offer one-on-one support and guidance.
Common Types of Injuries from Motorcycle Crashes
Car accidents can create life-changing injuries to many people. The extensiveness of those injuries ranges widely from minor scrapes and bruises to serious, life-altering outcomes that leave families until to maintain their lifestyles. Some of the most common types of motorcycle accident injuries involve:
Traumatic brain injury: Due to the exposure of a rider to the elements, even with a helmet, there is a high risk of traumatic brain injury, which can make it difficult for anyone to recover or maintain normal function.
Broken bones: From fractures to crushing accidents, motorcycle riders often face significant injury from broken bones. These are often complex fractures that require extensive surgical steps to store function, such as the ability to walk.
Road rash: Riders who fall from their bike or those pulled behind it often face road rash, a condition in which their skin is ripped and shredded from being pulled or pushed along the pavement. Infection risks are significant here.
Spinal damage: It is not uncommon for motorcycle riders to be thrown from their bikes or to become crushed between vehicles or objects. This can lead to spinal damage, sometimes so severe that it means a person is unable to walk or must go through extensive rehab.
Post-traumatic stress disorder: Individuals related to the body are one thing, but motorcycle accident victims often face injuries brought on by PTSD, reliving the events that occurred, the pain, and the overall experience over and over again.
Any of these injury risks can mean life-changing outcomes. Fatalities are not uncommon, and that often means a devastating loss to families.
Preventative Measures Motorcycle Riders Can Take
Can motorcycle riders do anything to prevent such injuries? Many times, other vehicle operators do not pay attention to motorcycle riders, or they may be distracted on the roadways. It may be impossible to prevent other people from creating these types of injuries. Riders may be able to reduce risk to their well-being by wearing helmets and being observant of others on the roadways with them.
What to Do After an Accident
When an accident like this occurs, the most important first step is to get the necessary medical care. If possible, move away from risk, such as off to the side of the road. Call 911 and have the police and ambulance arrive. Even if you think you are okay, you need medical care to provide a full evaluation. Most often, that means going to the emergency room.
If it is safe, take a few additional steps:
Get the contact information for anyone involved as well as witnesses.
Do not admit guilt or apologize for what’s occurred.
Take photos of the surrounding areas and of the damage.
Be sure to file a police report.
Then, speak to our motorcycle accident lawyers in Washington Court House, Ohio. Do not speak to insurance companies for the other party until you speak to your attorney.
Claims Process – Let Your Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Washington Court House, Ohio Help You
The insurance company will try to reduce what they pay out, rather than work to support you. They will take steps to reduce what they pay, such as trying to blame you for the accident or getting you to settle too fast. That’s why you need attorneys by your side.
We will work closely with you to determine what your losses are and then file a claim for you. We will handle any negotiations as well.
The best way to find out if you have a case is to contact motorcycle accident lawyers in Washington Court House, OH, to get more information. We can provide you with a formal case review to determine what you could be compensated for based on the evidence in your case.
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for Me
Choose an attorney that is reliable, experienced, and has the compassion you desire. It helps to have an attorney who has supported other motorcycle accident clients in the past. You also want to gather insight into their case results.
How Kruger & Hodges Can Help
With many years of combined services, Kruger & Hodges can help you through even the most difficult of motorcycle accident cases. Set up a free consultation with our team today to discuss your case and determine what the next steps are in getting the compensation owed to you.
