What Are Common Injuries from Michigan Motorcycle Accidents?
In 2018, 134 Michigan motorcyclists lost their lives in fatal accidents, and over 2,000 more were injured. Compared to other vehicle occupants, motorcyclists are at greater risk of severe and catastrophic injuries because their vehicles provide very little physical protection, and unfortunately, Michigan’s auto insurance laws often make it more difficult for injured motorcyclists to obtain the compensation they need. If you have been in a motorcycle accident and suffered one of the following injuries, an experienced attorney can help you understand your options for recovery.
Motorcycle Injuries Can Be Severe
In a car accident, motorcyclists may suffer from both blunt force trauma from the initial collision and additional injuries after being thrown from their vehicles. Some of the most common injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents include:
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Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Concussions and more severe head injuries can result in temporary or permanent impairment and loss of regular brain functions.
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Spinal injuries: Motorcyclists may suffer fractured vertebrae or damage to the spinal cord, which can result in full or partial paralysis.
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Broken limbs: Broken arms and legs are common both from the force of the initial impact and from motorcyclists’ attempts to brace themselves against impact with the ground or another stationary object on the road. Serious accidents can also result in total or partial loss of limbs.
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Broken ribs and internal organ damage: Broken ribs are especially common among older motorcyclists, and they can cause internal bleeding or damage to the lungs, kidneys, and other organs that may prove fatal.
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Lacerations and road burn: High-speed contact with road surfaces after an accident can cause cuts, scrapes, and burns that may result in permanent scarring or disfigurement.
Protection and Recovery from Michigan Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists can take some precautions to mitigate the effects of injuries. Perhaps the most effective strategy is to always wear a helmet and to practice safe driving habits. Motorcyclists can also purchase medical benefits insurance coverage in $5,000 increments, which may cover some injury expenses from accidents in which no other drivers are involved.
However, motorcyclists are ineligible to purchase the same no-fault Personal Injury Protection insurance coverage available to other motorists, and if they are injured in an accident with another vehicle, they usually must pursue compensation from the other driver and his or her insurance company. A reputable attorney can help you file a claim for compensation through the driver’s no-fault insurance policy, or pursue additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit if the other driver was at fault for the crash.
Contact a Grand Rapids Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
At John D. Tallman, PLC, we understand how difficult it can be for motorcyclists to recover from an accident, and we are committed to helping you obtain as much compensation possible for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Call our accomplished Kent County personal injury attorney today at 616-361-8850 to schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
https://www.michigan.gov/documents/msp/2018_Year-End_for_Web_653222_7.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3217482/
https://www.michigan.gov/documents/cis/ip227_172811_7.pdf
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