Motorcyclists are more susceptible to serious injuries in motorcycle accidents are also more likely to be killed than drivers in other kinds of motor vehicles. In 2019, more than 5,000 motorcyclists were killed in crashes, according to the NHTSA. In addition, over 80% of all motorcycle collisions result in death or severe injuries to motorcyclists. Below are the three major causes of death in motorcycle accidents.
1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
These are brain injuries with varying degrees of severity and occur when the brain is subjected to trauma. They usually occur when the head is shaken violently and suddenly back and forth or when the head is hit or collides with an object will massive force. While some TBIs could be treated, the majority of TBIs sustained in motorcycle accidents lead to more serious secondary injuries and death. Some of the more serious TBIs that could be fatal include:
- Skull Fractures
- Brain Hemorrhage
- Cerebral Edema
- Cerebral Lacerations or Contusions
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
One of the most sensitive and vital parts of our bodies is the spinal cord. Injuries to the spinal cord resulting from motorcycle accidents could be particularly catastrophic and deadly since most will suffer from temporary or permanent paralysis. Likewise, the top causes of death in individuals with spinal cord injuries who managed to recover but were left with lingering side effects are septicemia, pulmonary embolism, and pneumonia. In addition, suicide, subsequent trauma, alcohol-related deaths, and heart disease were also cited as leading causes of deaths following permanent spinal cord injuries.
3. Organ Injuries
In serious motorcycle accidents, injured victims may also sustain internal organ damage. Solid organs, including the kidneys, spleen, liver, and lungs, are the most vulnerable to lacerations or tears in motorcycle accidents due to trauma to the flank, back, or abdomen. Internal bleeding is likewise common and could result in death if not treated as soon as possible. It’s also invisible, which makes it particularly dangerous.
How our Experienced Garden City Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you sustained serious injuries or a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, let us help. Our experienced Garden City motorcycle accident lawyer here at the Falkowitz Law Firm can pursue fair compensation for all your losses and/or hold the negligent party that killed your loved one liable in a wrongful death claim. Call us at 844-385-4279 or complete our online form to arrange your free case evaluation today.
Motorcycle Accident FAQs
Can I Seek Compensation in a Motorcycle Accident?
Yes. You can recover compensation from your own no-fault insurance and the liable party that caused the accident, depending on the severity of your injuries.
What Should I Do If a Loved One Died in a Motorcycle Accident?
Contact a lawyer immediately to help you file a wrongful death claim against the negligent party that took the life of your loved one.
What Damages Can I Recover?
It depends. But, in most cases, injured victims can typically recover medical expenses, lost wages, and even pain and suffering in an injury claim against the at-fault party.
Gary P. Falkowitz is the Managing Partner and Founding Attorney of the Falkowitz Law Firm PLLC‚ one of the premiere personal injury law firms in New York. Gary received his J.D., in 2005 from St. John’s University School of Law and served as an Assistant District Attorney with the Kings County District Attorney’s Office.
