Motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation in New Orleans. Those who enjoy the freedom of the open road and the fuel efficiency that these vehicles have to offer may also face a higher risk of being involved in an accident. Motorcycle crashes often cause serious injuries, even death, but there are steps that you can take to shield yourself from unnecessary harm.
Preventing motorcycle accidents
As a biker, there are things you can do to keep yourself safe. Taking every precaution is critical because many drivers do not know how to safely share the road, and many motorcycle accidents are caused by careless, aggressive or negligent drivers. Any of the following are steps you can take to practice safety:
- Taking a motorcycle safety course
- Wearing a helmet
- Avoiding driving in bad weather
- Wearing protective gear
- Following traffic laws
- Being aware of other vehicles and drivers
Despite your best efforts, it is impossible to guarantee your safety 100 percent of the time. Unfortunately, motorcycles are largely unprotected when involved in accidents, and even minor collisions can have catastrophic consequences.
Common motorcycle accident injuries
Motorcyclists are nine times more likely to suffer injury and 35 times more likely to be killed in an accident than those who are riding in another type of vehicle. Orthopedic injuries are some of the most common that victims of motorcycle accidents suffer, such as:
- Broken bones
- Spine injuries
- Fractures
- Injuries to the hands and wrists
- Head trauma
- Internal injury
Bikers who do not wear appropriate safety gear, particularly helmets, are significantly more likely to suffer traumatic or fatal head injuries.
Who is at fault?
Approximately half of all motorcycle accidents that involve passenger vehicles occur at intersections. Failure to properly yield or share the road may be to blame, and the drivers of larger vehicles bear the burden of exercising caution when motorcycles are around. If you were hurt in an accident involving another vehicle, it may not be your fault. In fact, you may have a rightful claim to compensation for the following:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages
In order for you to claim what is rightfully yours and protect your interests, you must clearly establish that another person or party is liable for what you suffered. Building a strong claim after a motorcycle accident is a key component in your road to financial recovery, and the first step in that process is to secure appropriate legal guidance.