For many motorists, rear-end collisions are minor accidents. If another car hits your bumper in a parking lot or at a stop light, then the most you would suffer is probably some minor damage to your rear fender and possible mild whiplash.
However, motorcyclists are much more exposed than drivers and
occupants of passenger vehicles. A rear end collision for a motorcyclist could be deadly. Because they are so unprotected, motorcyclists could go sprawling through the air and suffer catastrophic injuries when they crash to the ground.
If you are a motorcyclist who has been injured in a rear-end collision or other accident, compensation might be available. Contact a motorcycle accident attorney at Kapuza Lighty for more information.
Why Motorcycles are Rear Ended
It is risky to ride a motorcycle in Washington. Many motorists cause accidents because they are not paying attention to motorcycles out on the road. Many bikers are justifiably shocked that they are rear-ended while sitting at a stop sign or a stop light.
Other reasons for rear end accidents are:
- Distracted
driving. A motorist might be looking at a cell phone and not paying attention while driving. - Drowsy driving. A
tired driver has slower reflexes, which could prevent them from hitting the brakes in time to avoid a crash with a motorcycle. - Reckless driving. A motorist might be tailgating a motorcyclist and crash into them when the biker slows down.
Sometimes, motorists overlook bikers who do not stand out. You can increase your visibility by choosing brightly colored helmets and jackets or painting your bike a bright color. You can also install a rear light on your motorcycle, which can increase the odds that a motorist will see you in time to avoid a collision.
Rear-End Collision Injuries
After being struck, motorcyclists can go flying off their bike.
Remember, they do not have air bags and seat belts to restrain them. As a result, a motorcyclist could crash into another vehicle, a fire hydrant, or the road and suffer bad injuries, including:
- Fractures
- Nerve damage, such as nerve damage in their arm
- Road rash
- Bruises and other soft-tissue injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord damage
Motorcyclists are also at risk for getting run over by other vehicles once they land in the road. Unsurprisingly, many will die or suffer devastating internal organ damage that can leave them fighting for their lives.
Protecting Yourself
If you ride a bike, then the possibility of an accident is probably always on your mind. The single best form of protection would be a motorcycle helmet. Look for one that has been approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation and make sure to wear it at all times. Helmets can dramatically reduce brain injuries and fatalities, and they do not appreciably restrict a rider’s field of vision.
Speak to a Yakima Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Rear end collisions cost many motorcyclists their lives. If your motorcycle was rear ended, please reach out to Kapuza Lighty today. Our lawyers have years of experience handling these types of claims, and we can help you obtain compensation from a motorist responsible for your injuries.
If you would like to meet for a case evaluation, call us today.
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