Many Hackensack area residents own a motorcycle. They ride these motorcycles for fun on the weekends, to their jobs, or just to get places. Motorcycles are popular modes of transportation and most of the time motorcyclists can safely share the road with other vehicles. But, in the unfortunate event of a motorcycle crash, a motorcycle driver can be seriously injured.
Motorcycle crash statistics
Due to the lack of protection motorcyclists have, the fact that they are less visible to other drivers and that they are less stable than cars, a motorcycle crash can lead to serious injuries and even death. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2019 over 5,000 motorcyclists were killed in the U.S. For the thousands more who were injured, they had many common injuries. These include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries. A spinal cord injury can lead to paralysis and permanent disability.
- Lower-extremity injuries. Leg injuries and bone fractures are common in motorcycle crashes.
- Internal injuries. Damage to internal organs and internal bleeding can be caused by blunt-force trauma.
- Victims of motorcycle accidents often have broken legs, arms, wrists, and other bones.
- Road rash. When a rider makes contact with the road surface, serious skin abrasions called road rash can occur. These injuries are susceptible to infection and permanent scarring.
Help for motorcycle accident victims
A legal professional who is skilled in personal injury can help a victim of a motorcycle accident. They can visit the accident scene and interview witnesses, review the police report, and help their client understand what happened to cause the accident. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages.