Motorcyclists face unique issues when they are involved in accidents with motor vehicles. Insurance companies and law enforcement officials may be quick to pin some, if not all, of the blame on the biker—even when there is little to no evidence supporting this claim. Why? Motorcyclists have long endured a reputation as daredevils and risk-takers. As such, bikers often face unfair prejudices immediately after a motorcycle accident. When this occurs, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can be an invaluable resource.
Motorcycling in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia
In the Washington, D.C. metro area, Maryland, and Virginia, all motorcyclists are required to wear helmets while riding. This has directly reduced the number of motorcycle fatalities in the area. Studies estimate that helmets can prevent 37% of fatal head injuries.
Bikers who ride in Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia have their pick of beautiful rides. From the Potomac River to the Atlantic coastline to the beautiful George Washington forest, there is something for every biker here. In fact, bikers from all over the country come here to participate in rallies, motorcycling events, protests, and historical tours.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
In 2012, 93,000 motorcyclists were injured in accidents across the United States. Sadly, nearly 5,000 bikers lost their lives in those accidents, representing a 7% increase from 2011. Motorcyclists are at an increased risk for sustaining serious life threatening and fatal injuries in an accident due to the lack of protection a motorcycle offers. In fact, per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclists are more than 26x more likely to be killed in a collision than passenger car occupants.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents
By far, the majority of motorcycle accidents involve collisions with other vehicles. In 41% of those crashes, the car or truck turned left into the oncoming motorcyclist’s path. These types of collisions occur most frequently at intersections and stop signs and the other driver just simply fails to notice the motorcycle approaching.
Other types of motorcycle collisions include:
- Head-on collisions with stationary objects
- Rear-end collisions by other vehicles
- Motorcyclists rear-ending other vehicles
- Hitting animals on the road
- Negotiating a curve or road improperly
- Speeding
- Defective tires or motorcycle parts
- Improperly maintained roadway
- Poor weather conditions
Types of Injuries Sustained in Motorcycle Accidents
While motorcycle and helmet designs have improved in the last several decades, motorcyclists still suffer serious and life-threatening injuries when they are involved in accidents. These injuries are likely to be severe, requiring extensive hospitalizations and rehabilitation. Even when motorcyclists survive the initial injury, they are at an increased risk for permanent damage and long-term disability. Common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue injuries
- Back injuries
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Road rash
- Amputation
- Crushing injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Hemorrhaging
- And more
Contact Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
At Patrick Malone & Associates, our motorcycle accident lawyers understand how catastrophic motorcycle accidents can be in the Washington, D.C. metro area, Virginia, and Maryland. Our accident attorneys work tirelessly from the very start to ensure that all our clients receive the compensation they need to fully recover. Call us at 1-202-742-1500 or 1-888-625-6635 or fill out our confidential contact form for a FREE Consultation and review of your case.
The motorcycle accident attorneys at Patrick Malone & Associates have successfully represented injured individuals in Washington, D.C., Arlington, Alexandria, Annapolis, Rockville, Baltimore, Richmond, Fairfax, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and other locations throughout Maryland and Virginia.
