The number of registered motorcycles in the United States has risen in recent years. Because so many more motorcycles are on the road, accidents are becoming increasingly frequent. When a motorcyclist has an accident, their injuries are likely to be far more serious than victims riding in passenger cars, trucks, or SUV’s. This is because there is little protection surrounding a motorcycle rider, unlike a passenger vehicle which has several tons of protective metal. The following is an overview of motorcycle accident statistics in the United States and how personal injury law may help an injured rider obtain compensation for his injuries.
Number of Registered Motorcycles in the U.S.
As of 2015, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics states there are 8,417,718 registered motorcycles in the United States today. California has the highest number of registered motorcycles, followed by Florida and Texas.
Motorcycle Accident Injury Statistics
In 2015, 88,000 people were hurt in motorcycle accidents, which is down from 92,000 the previous year.
Fatal Motorcycle Accident Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 4,976 people died in 2015 in motorcycle accidents which is an increase from the previous year. In 2014, 4,594 people died in motorcycle crashes.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
While there are many different types of injuries that motorcyclists can sustain in accidents, some are more commonly reported than others. The most common motorcycle crash injuries include:
- Facial Fractures
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Closed Head Injuries
- Paralysis
- Facial Lacerations
- Broken Bones
- Internal Organ Damage
- Severed Limbs
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries like the ones mentioned above, you may benefit from speaking with a personal injury attorney to discuss all of your options.
What Damages You Could Recover
While no amount of money can truly compensate you for serious accident injuries, you could be awarded a settlement if you file a lawsuit and are successful. Some examples of damages typically awarded in these types of personal injury cases include:
- Ambulance Fees
- Hospital Bills
- Emergency Room Costs
- Cost of Alternate Transportation to Doctor Visits
- Speech, Physical, or Occupational Therapy Fees
- Pain and Suffering
- Lost Income
- Emotional Distress
If your injuries are so severe that you cannot return to work and are deemed disabled by your doctor, you may be able to obtain a settlement for future lost wages. This type of monetary compensation is designed to compensate you for money you can no longer earn during your career. If you can return to work but can no longer perform your job duties and must change occupations, you can also receive a partial settlement for future lost wages because your earning capacity is diminished.
With over eight million motorcycles on the road, it is little wonder why so many people are hurt in accidents each year. Contact a motorcycle accident attorney Las Vegas for information on your case and learn how personal injury law may work for you.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from Nadia von Magdenko & Associates for their insight into motorcycle accident cases.
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