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South Carolina Personal Injury Law Blog

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How Do Motorcycle Accident Cases Differ from Car Accident Cases?

Lacking the protection of an enclosed vehicle, motorcyclists are at a higher risk of injury or death than motor vehicle drivers. Studies have shown that a bike rider is 27 times more likely to die in a crash than a motor vehicle occupant. Since a motorcyclist must balance on two wheels, loss of stability is a significant reason riders are injured. This, combined with motorcyclists not being easily seen by other drivers, places motorcyclists in more significant danger on the road.

At Oxner & Stacy Law Firm, LLC, our Georgetown motorcycle accident lawyers understand the risks that motorcyclists face each time they mount their bikes. Our legal team wants to hear whether you have recently been injured in a crash.

Less Visibility

Motorcycles are less visible to other vehicles, causing them to be at greater risk of being hit. The reasons for visibility issues include the following:

Accordingly, motorcyclists are advised to wear brightly colored and/or reflective clothing to improve their visibility to other drivers. Increasing your visibility to other drivers may save your life.

Less Control and Stability

A motorcycle’s steering capabilities are more sensitive than motor vehicles. Also, a motorcyclist must balance on two wheels, making it less stable. Given the lack of control and stability, a spooked motorcyclist is likelier to drive into a stationary object, causing extensive damage to the rider and the bike. If a motorist cuts off a motorcyclist and the motorcyclist attempts to maneuver quickly to avoid being hit, this instability can result in catastrophic injuries.

More Severe Injuries

Motorcyclists are more likely to suffer traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) compared to motor vehicle drivers, although using a helmet does decrease the risks of severe injury. Unhelmeted riders are three times more likely to suffer TBIs compared to helmeted riders.

Additionally, given the crash’s speed and the vulnerability of riding a motorcycle, riders are prone to abrasions. More commonly referred to as “road rash,” it is a condition in which the top layer of skin is rubbed off due to meeting a rough surface. A motorcyclist who suffers an abrasion should seek medical attention if there is any drainage from the abrasion site, excessive bleeding, or if the wound is hot to the touch (since this may be a sign of infection).

Given the likelihood of suffering harm, motorcyclists are advised to wear helmets and gear to minimize injury severity. Many motorcyclists believe that if they are competent riders, they do not need to take these precautions, which makes them vulnerable.

How Can a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Help Me?

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need representation that will fight for you every step of the way. Proving liability is complicated, requiring that you provide convincing proof of the other driver’s carelessness and violation of motor vehicle laws. You should hire an attorney with knowledge of the South Carolina Motor Vehicle Code and experience establishing fault to collect maximum damages. If you are not offered the compensation we believe you deserve, our motorcycle accident lawyers are not afraid to take your case to trial.

Consult with Our Georgetown Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today

At Oxner & Stacy Law Firm, LLC, we have helped hundreds of motorcycle accident victims recover adequate compensation for injuries and accident-related losses. We believe that recovering reasonable compensation is essential for you to heal and return to the life you once knew fully. To learn more or schedule your consultation, contact us online or by phone today. We offer both office and in-home consultations.