Motorcyclists face a greater risk of accidents than drivers and those accidents are more likely to lead to serious injury or death. Motorcyclists and motorcycle passengers are exposed to the environment. They are not protected by steel frames, seat belts or airbags, which makes collisions more dangerous. But improved safety gear can dramatically reduce the chances of death and serious injury in an accident so long as motorcyclists routinely wear the equipment.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 4,976 motorcyclists were killed in 2015. This was an increase of over eight percent from the prior year. Motorcyclists were also 29 times more likely to die than car passengers per vehicle mile traveled. In data from The Advancement of Automotive Medicine, analysts found that thoracic injuries were the most frequent cause of death among motorcyclists in crashes. When motorcyclists are injured, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) found that the most common injuries occurred to the motorcyclist’s legs and feet. The next most common injury was sustained to the head and neck, and the third most typical injury was sustained to the trunk area.
What can motorcyclists do to protect themselves? Motorcyclists can consistently wear gear to protect every part of their bodies. Most importantly, helmets should be worn to prevent devastating head injuries. Helmets are equipped with layers of styrofoam that are specifically designed in densities that protect the head in a collision. Helmets vary in the degree of protection they provide. The standard helmet certified by the Department of Transportation is intended to withstand one significant impact. This means that subsequent minor injuries may result in damage due to inadequate head protection. In contrast, helmets that conform to European standards can withstand subsequent minor impacts after a major collision.
The CDC found that helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and the risk of head injury by 69%. In 2015, helmets were found to have saved 1,772 lives. Statistics show that safety gear designed for motorcyclists may not prevent injuries entirely. However, wearing safety gear, particularly helmets, can drastically reduce the incidence of death and severe injury. Motorcyclists can also risk the incidence of death and injury by buying a motorcycle that does not travel at excessively high speeds, enrolling in a motorcycle safety class, avoiding distractions on the road, and refraining from riding when road conditions are poor.
If you or a member of your family was injured in an accident involving a motorcycle, contact Alexander Law Group, LLC. Our exceptional personal injury lawyers will be sure you get the maximum compensation possible. Call 888.777.1776, or contact us online.
