As reported by the Department of Transportation (DOT), there are 8,410,255 registered motorcycles across the United States. Motorcycle fatalities have increasing rates by more than 8% between 2014 and 2015, and almost 5,000 people die in fatal crashes each year. Rates of motorcycle-related injuries have slightly decreased, however, almost 90,000 individuals are hurt annually. A Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer at Moss & Colella can be a valuable resource for anyone injured in a motorcycle accident in Michigan.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported that 15% of all vehicle crashes included motorcycles in 2015. Motorcyclists are far more likely to be involved in a crash than people in cars; approximately 27 times more. This may very well be a consequence of riders having little to no protection and being less visible to other vehicles on the road.
Helmets are proven to save lives, unfortunately, not every state requires motorcyclists to wear one. The IIHS data shows that helmets are 37% effective at preventing death and protect people against brain injuries 62% of the time. Shielding against a brain injury is highly important, considering that the most frequently occurring types of motorcycle accidents end with a traumatic head injury, a road rash, and multiple bone fractures. If more states order legislation to require riders to wear helmets, the number of fatal and permanent injuries that transpire would definitely decrease.
Head injuries are the first cause of disability and death in motorcycle accidents. The DOT has documented that not only do helmets decrease the chances of brain and head injuries, they also result in reduction of healthcare costs for the serious injuries that a victim may endure. Road rash is a typical motorcyclist injury that result from riders meeting the surface of a road during collision. Symptoms may include skin abrasions and reddened skin. In some more serious cases the skin can be completely removed, exposing layers of fat and tissue beneath. Speaking with a Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer at Moss & Colella can answer any question you may have about motorcycle accident laws in Michigan.
Riders sustain common arm and leg fractures. Motorcycles are extremely heavy and can easily crush a rider’s limb. Motorcyclists are also more likely to fracture their arms or wrists when they attempt to catch themselves while falling. To decrease the amount of head injuries, road rash and bone fractures, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) pushes motorcyclists to follow safety tips and to wear appropriate safety gear. It is reported by the administration that death is a result of 80% of all motorcycle accidents, so taking as many precautionary measures to reduce the chances of danger is crucial.
Motorcycles are dangerous for the rider and other drivers on the road because of the increased accident hazards in which they can potentially create. As with all dangerous activities, being prepared, aware, and cautious can help to eliminate the risks. A few of the top safety tips from the NHTSA that will aid in keeping all drivers safe are:
Speeding or drinking and driving accidents are 100% preventable. According to the IIHS, speeding is an issue in 48% of all fatal crashes, not too far ahead of the drinking and driving collision rate of 42%. All drivers can always easily prevent these sorts of crashes from happening by never driving after drinking alcohol and obeying the posted speed limit. Motorcyclist who are also senior citizens should be especially careful when driving motorcycles; data shows that people over the age of 60 are up to 3 times more likely to require aid and hospitalization after a crash.
To withstand accident and fatality rates, multiple states offer low-cost or even free motorcycle safety programs that go into training and defensive driving techniques to new and experienced riders in great detail.
If you or a loved one was injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, please contact a trusted Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer at Moss & Colella. We will always have an experienced Michigan Motorcycle accident lawyer or Detroit Motorcycle accident lawyer ready to assist you.
The attorneys of Moss & Colella have carefully chosen their career paths to fight for those that have suffered from injury and wrongful death. We believe every citizen should have the right to hire the best lawyer who will actively advocate for their case.
David Moss and Vince Colella have over 60 collective years of personal injury trial experience that provides you a level of legal services and success unmatched by other firms. By working together, we have the ability to find creative, effective, and efficient solutions to even the most complex cases. No matter what situation you face, we will help you get through it.
28411 Northwestern Hwy
Suite 1150
Southfield, MI 48034
