Motorcycle Accidents in NH
One type of auto accident that can have devastating consequences is motorcycle accidents. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) motorcycle use is at an all-time high. With increased use come increased injuries. For example, from 2001 to 2008 motorcycle death rates increased by 55%. During the 7 year period between 2001 and 2008 over 34,000 people were killed and another 1,222,000 were injured in motorcycle related accidents. When a person is hurt in a motorcycle accident caused by another driver, they are entitled to seek compensation for their injuries.
Drivers who cause injury to other people because of negligence are liable for the damage they inflict. When this includes causing injury or death, the victim or their family can request compensation for medical bills, lost wages from missed work and pain and suffering.
New Hampshire Motorcycle Injuries
Because of their lack of safety features, motorcycle accidents tend to be more serious than the average auto accident. Riders often have nothing to protect them from falling off of their bike and being exposed other hazards. Whereas cars have airbags, seatbelts and a variety if features to keep passengers safe during an accident, motorcyclists often only have helmets to protect them. Still, a person's choice of vehicle does not prevent them from seeking compensation for injuries inflicted on them by a negligent driver. All drivers are expected to follow the laws of the road and exercise reasonable caution when sharing the road with other vehicles. The fact that a victim's injuries would have been less serious if they were driving a car is not a valid defense in a motorcycle injury case.
Motorcycle accidents can result in very serious injuries. Even a minor auto accident can lead to broken bones, soft tissue damage, and more for a motorcycle rider. Even if the rider is wearing a DOC approved helmet and thick leather clothing, their injuries could be extensive. The CDC lists the most common motorcycle injuries as the following:
- 30% suffered injury to the legs or feet
- 22% suffered injury to the head or neck
- 20% suffered injury to the upper torso
- 18% suffered injury to the arms or hands
- 8% suffered injury to the lower torso
- 3% suffered injury to other areas
Head and neck injuries are listed as the second most common result of motorcycle accidents. Nearly one fourth of all people hurt in motorcycle crashes experience injury to their heads. This can lead to brain damage, concussions or other serious side effects. Some injuries will require a lifetime of care and mat even lead to a person becoming unable to work.
Call a New Hampshire Motorcycle Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one have been the victim of a negligent driver while operating a motorcycle, call us now. Hiring an experienced attorney is the best way to make sure that you get the compensation that you need. Attorney Ryan Russman can help you deal with the insurance company and handle all of the paperwork. Call us now to get started.
