In 2019, there were almost 30 times as many deaths from motorcycle crashes as there were for car crashes. The nature of riding a motorcycle without any added vehicle protection puts motorcycle riders at greater risk of severe injury and death. 

You might be asking the question, 'should I get a lawyer for a motorcycle accident?' If you or a loved one have been part of a motorcycle or car accident, then you know how debilitating and life-changing it can be. 

If you have an interest in learning more about the differences between these two accidents, then keep reading on. 

Car Accident

A car accident is a bit different than being involved in a motorcycle crash since the risk of injury is much lower. In a car, you have the safety of a seatbelt, airbags, and the encasement of the vehicle. Motor vehicle accident victims, do not get that extra layer of safety on the road.

This can prevent more serious injuries or deaths in the case of a motorcycle accident. There are a few different types of auto accidents commonly seen which include: 

  • Rear-end

  • Rollover

  • Side-swipe

  • Head-on

  • Single car

  • Multi-car

Some collisions, such as a rollover or head-on collision with other vehicles, can prove more deadly than other ones like a side-swipe collision. Head-on collisions are usually one of the more deadly accidents since it typically involves high speeds from both vehicles. 

A single-car collision happens when the driver loses control at the wheel. This can be from fatigue or a malfunction in the car. 

Motorcycle Accident

When looking at car vs motorcycle accident cases, many of the accidents for motorcyclists are similar to the ones listed above. However, motorcycle accidents vs car accidents have a few distinguishing factors such as lane splitting and colliding with fixed objects.

Those two types of accidents are more commonly seen for motorcyclists as are left-hand turn collisions and hazards on the road. Motorcyclists have a higher risk of an accident with slick road conditions, construction, or debris. 

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

The type of motorcycle accident you have and the injuries you incur help determine if you have a case to present to a motorcycle accident lawyer. Head injuries are one of the most common types of injuries that happen from crashes.

Upwards of 50% of collisions result in a head trauma. This can result in long-term disabilities or even death. Other orthopedic injuries like broken bones and fractures are common for various mechanisms of injury, especially for lower extremities. 

Cervical spine injuries are less common than head injuries but still occur in less than 10% of motorcycle collisions. However, spinal cord injuries are a serious complication and can lead to paralysis of the motorcycle accident victim.

Internal injuries such as organ damage or hemorrhaging can also sometimes occur. If this goes undetected, it can lead to medical complications. Since motorcyclists are more exposed, they are at a higher risk of more permanent injuries and fatal accidents. 

Minor injuries are anything from sprained joints to road rash. These lead to the least amount of complications and long-term effects.

Motorcycle Safety

There are a few things motorcyclists can do to make sure they are prepared when venturing out on the road. This can help prevent injuries or crashes. First, make sure that you or a loved one has a proper helmet and is always wearing it. Universal helmet law in California requires a DOT compliant motorcycle safety helmet to be worn at all times when riding a motorcycle

Helmets play an extremely critical role in preventing serious head and brain injury. Also, check your tire pressure, tread, brakes, and lights before you take off. Taking the extra time ensures that everything is working properly and avoids collisions from a motorcycle malfunction. 

Lastly, never ride your motorcycle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This inhibits your coordination and judgment which are both extremely crucial to have when operating machinery or vehicles. In turn, being more aware of your surroundings on the road increases your chances of avoiding serious accidents.

Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Even if you have insurance, a motorcycle accident lawyer is critical in handling a motorcycle accident. The insurance company can misrepresent their clients and can pressure you into signing statements. 

A qualified attorney gives you proper representation and helps handle the complexities of your case. There are many misconceptions and an over-reliance on insurance companies.

For example, the at fault driver that caused the accident should handle the following things:

  • Medical bills

  • Lost earnings

  • Emotional trauma

  • Impaired quality of life

  • Punitive damages

Additionally, personal injury cases arise when a person has been injured by another individual. Motorcycle accidents can lead to harm, disfigurement, emotional trauma, and additional pain and suffering.

A personal injury lawsuit with a motorcycle accident attorney can help you obtain maximum compensation to give you back thousands of dollars and pay for medical expenses and possible lost wages. 

Saving Money

One of the biggest reasons that you need representation from a lawyer for a motorcycle crash is to save you the money and headache down the road. Attorneys and law firms are paid based on hourly, fixed, or contingent wages. 

Contingent wages are common with a personal injury claim and essentially mean that your attorney is not paid until you are. When you win your case, you will have to eventually pay the attorney fees. This provides a higher incentive for success with your case.

If you are unsure of what kind of payment your law firm uses, then be sure to ask beforehand. Additionally, your attorney fees are different from the case fees. However, when you factor in thousands of dollars saved, then a percentage of that going to an attorney can save you money in the long-term through medical expenses, therapy, and lost property. 

Should I Get a Lawyer for a Motorcycle Accident?

When you google the question, 'should I get a lawyer for a motorcycle accident case', the answer is - yes! Oakland motorcycle accident lawyers with a strong track record can help you navigate the challenging waters of court, subpoenas, and offer other legal advice to make a motorcycle accident claim.

They can also help you recover expenses and costs that were associated with any injuries or disabilities from your motorcycle accident that you were not responsible for. If you are in need of experienced local motorcycle accident lawyers, then contact us today to receive a free consultation, and you get a step closer to fair compensation.