Rear-End Motorcycle Accidents Can Have Devastating Consequences
Motorcycle accidents tend to have much more severe repercussions for riders than they do for motorists, who have the benefit not only of seat belts and airbags, but also a metal cage between themselves and the road. Even accidents that would normally qualify as relatively minor, or even fender benders, can result in serious injuries for motorcyclists. This is especially true for motorcycle riders who are struck from behind, as they are often thrown over the handlebars and into the road or onto the car in front of them.
Common Rear-End Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycles are generally at a disadvantage when they are struck by larger, heavier passenger vehicles because of their smaller size and the riders’ lack of protection. The impact of rear-end motorcycle accidents, in which a motorcycle is struck from behind is often primarily felt on the back tire, causing it to rise off the ground and throw the rider from the motorcycle entirely. Common injuries among motorcycle accident victims involved in these kinds of crashes include:
- Spinal cord injuries;
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Rib and collarbone fractures;
- Lacerations and road rash;
- Abdominal injuries, including internal bleeding;
- Hip and pelvic fractures; and
- Fractures to the limbs, especially the lower legs.
Treating these injuries can be prohibitively expensive, which can be particularly frustrating for those who were not at fault for their accidents, but were the victims of someone else’s negligence. Fortunately, in rear-end accident cases, the driver in the rear who struck the other vehicle is generally presumed to be at fault for the crash, which means that injured parties can seek compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
The most important thing that an accident victim can do after a motorcycle crash is to seek immediate medical attention. The injuries sustained by riders in rear-end motorcycle accidents are often severe and may even be life-threatening, so it’s not uncommon that they require emergency medical attention. Once these injuries have been diagnosed and treatment has begun, the injured party can take additional steps towards seeking recovery, such as:
- Gathering documentation from witnesses who saw the accident and who may have taken photos of the crash;
- Collecting video records of the accident from nearby traffic or security cameras;
- Obtaining a copy of the police report;
- Avoiding the posting of photos or comments on social media, especially in regards to the case; and
- Reaching out to an experienced attorney before speaking with insurers or filing a claim.
To learn more about the steps you should take after a motorcycle accident, reach out to our legal team today.
Complimentary Consultations Available
At Levinson Law, P.C., we know how devastating rear-end motorcycle accidents can be for victims and their families. We are here to help support and guide you through the legal process as you attempt to recover from your own accident-related injuries. Call our experienced Tulsa motorcycle accident lawyers at 918-492-4433 to get started on your own case today.
Sources:
one.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/pedbimot/motorcycle/safebike/anatomy.html
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3217482/
