Motorcyclists Are More Like To Sustain Fatal Injuries in an Accident Than Car Passengers?

That motorcyclists are more likely to sustain fatal injuries in an accident than car passengers is an undeniable truth, which makes it crucial for riders to understand the risks. Unlike cars, motorcycles provide minimal protection, and conditions in states like New Mexico—such as open highways and unpredictable weather—can further exacerbate these risks. At Parnall Law, we’re here to provide the legal support bikers need after an accident.

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In this blog, we will examine why motorcycles are riskier than cars, the typical injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents, the primary causes, and the steps to take if you are injured in a crash. Gaining insight into these risks can help riders enhance their safety on the road.

Are Motorcycles More Dangerous than Cars?

Motorcycles are significantly more dangerous than cars due to a combination of factors stemming from their inherent lack of protective features. Unlike car occupants shielded by a reinforced metal frame, airbags, and seatbelts, motorcyclists lack such safeguards, leaving them highly exposed to the elements and directly vulnerable to impact forces in a collision. This lack of protection, including the absence of crumple zones and the increased risk from road debris, combined with the limited visibility of motorcycles to other drivers, contributes to much higher fatality rates.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), two-wheel users are 28 times more likely to die in a traffic accident compared to car passengers. In 2020 alone, 5,579 motorcyclists were killed in crashes across the United States, a stark contrast to fatality rates for car users. Studies show that in bike crashes, injuries are often more severe, and fatalities are more habitual, particularly when high speeds or other vehicles are involved.

In New Mexico, riders face additional challenges such as long stretches of rural roads where emergency medical assistance might be delayed and frequent changes in weather conditions that can increase the likelihood of an accident. These factors combine to make motorcycling a riskier mode of transportation compared to cars.

Common Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents

When a motorcyclist is involved in a collision, the types of injuries sustained tend to be more harsh than those of car passengers. Regular injuries include:

1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even though helmets can greatly reduce the risk of a fatal head injury, TBIs remain one of the most common and severe outcomes of motorcycle accidents. Riders who are thrown from their bikes suffer from concussions or more serious brain trauma.
2. Spinal cord injuries: They can result in partial or total paralysis, depending on the gravity of the damage. They occur when a biker’s body directly contacts the ground or another vehicle.
3. Fractures and broken bones: Motorcyclists frequently experience broken bones due to their lack of physical protection. Their legs, arms, and ribs are especially vulnerable in an accident.
4. Road rash: A grave type of skin abrasion caused by sliding across the pavement. It can range from mild to life-threatening if it involves deep tissue damage or results in infection.
5. Internal injuries: The force of a crash can cause internal injuries, such as damage to the lungs, liver, or kidneys. They are typically not immediately apparent and can be life-threatening without prompt medical attention.

These incidents can lead to long-term disability and overwhelming medical expenses. It’s important to understand these risks when riding the road. Riders should always wear helmets and protective gear and take every precaution possible to mitigate injury risks.

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Main Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

They can happen in the blink of an eye, and while there are many potential causes, some factors contribute to a significant percentage of crashes. The leading causes of motorcycle accidents include:

1. Lack of visibility: One of the greatest hazards for motorcyclists is the inability of other drivers to notice them. Due to their smaller size, motorcycles are less visible than cars, particularly in blind spots. This becomes especially dangerous when vehicles are changing lanes or turning.
2. Distracted driving: In today’s fast-paced world, distracted driving is a major problem. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are less likely to notice bikers in time to avoid a collision.
3. Speeding: Speed plays a significant role in the severity of any incident. For motorcyclists, high speeds can make it nearly impossible to react to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions. Additionally, crashes that occur at higher speeds often result in more severe injuries and fatalities.
4. Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s reaction time, coordination, and judgment. Motorcyclists and car drivers alike are at a much greater risk of being involved in a fatal situation if one or both parties are impaired.
5. Road conditions: Poorly maintained roads, gravel, potholes, and unexpected debris can cause a biker to lose control. Weather conditions, such as rain or strong winds, can also make it difficult to maintain stability on a motorcycle.
6. Failure to yield: Many motorcycle accidents happen when drivers neglect to yield the right of way at intersections. This negligence can stem from distracted driving, lack of attention, or misinterpreting traffic signals, and it can lead to devastating outcomes for two-wheel users.

By comprehending the main causes of these collisions, riders can take steps to protect themselves. To reduce the risk of an incident, always remain alert, drive defensively, and be mindful of your surroundings.

What to Do if I’m Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?

If you’ve been injured, taking the proper steps to protect your health and legal rights is critical. Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek medical attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel okay immediately after the event, some injuries, such as internal bleeding or a concussion, may not be apparent right away. It’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible.
2. Document the scene: If you’re able, take pictures of the accident scene, your wounds, and any damage to your motorcycle. These can be valuable pieces of evidence if you decide to file a personal injury claim.
3. Gather contact information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. If there were witnesses to the accident, get their names and phone numbers as well.
4. Report the accident: Notify the police of the situation so they can file an official report. This report can be fundamental in proving liability in your case.

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Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorneys.

Two-wheel crashes can be legally challenging, especially if serious injuries or fatalities are involved. You need an experienced motorcycle injury attorney who can guide you through the legal process and guarantee that you receive fair compensation for your damages, medical bills, and lost wages.

At Parnall Law, we are dedicated to assisting injured motorcyclists in obtaining the justice they deserve. If you’ve suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident in New Mexico, contact us today for a complimentary consultation.