While motorcycle and car accidents are vastly different, they share some similarities. While this is true, the injury potential in motorcycle accidents is much higher than in car accidents.
For example, the NHTSA has stated that 13 of every 100,000 cars are involved in fatal accidents, while 72 of every 100,000 motorcycles are. Additionally, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to be killed in an accident than people in cars.
If you think about it, this makes sense. A motorcyclist does not have the same protection as people in cars. There is no physical barrier between a motorcycle rider and the pavement.
At Zimmet & Zimmet, our Florida accident attorneys understand the devastating losses that can occur in car and motorcycle accidents. If you are in this situation, contact our office to learn more about your rights and options for legal action.
The Main Differences in Car and Motorcycle Accidents
Usually, motorcycle accidents are more likely to be catastrophic than car accidents. One reason is that motorcycles have no airbags or seat belts, are on two wheels, and are much smaller (in size and weight) than other vehicles.
Another serious risk is that motorcycles are harder to see by other drivers. They are not as stable, and if a rider encounters road hazards, such as mud, debris, or rocks, an accident is almost inevitable.
Motorcycle accidents are harder to manage than car accidents for several reasons, including the following:
- Motorcyclists typically suffer more permanent and serious injuries due to their lack of protection and vulnerability.
- Motorcyclists will likely require longer-term financial support to cover the ongoing medical care related to brain or spinal cord injuries.
- Those who endure motorcycle injuries may face other challenges in court, as jurors may view their actions as reckless or risky.
- In many situations, motorcycle accidents result in wrongful death claims by the rider or passenger’s family.
Common Causes of Car and Motorcycle Accidents
Some causes of car and motorcycle accidents are similar; however, there are unique factors in both situations.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
The most common causes of car accidents include the following:
- Distracted driving. It is estimated that up to 25% of car accidents are caused by mobile phone usage.
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and speeding. Speeding and drunk driving are related to about 50% of all accidents.
- Aggressive driving. Examples of aggressive driving include ignoring traffic signals, tailgating, weaving in and out of lanes, and failing to yield.
- Driver fatigue. Around three percent of traffic fatalities are caused by drivers falling asleep and driver fatigue.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
While many issues can cause motorcycle accidents, some of the most common include the following:
- Vehicle making a left turn. When a car makes a left turn, it is extremely dangerous for motorcyclists because they may be struck traveling straight through the intersection, while trying to overtake a vehicle, or trying to pass.
- Lane splitting. Lane splitting is illegal in Florida (which is not the case in other states). While it is illegal, some motorcyclists still do it. If a motorcyclist travels between two lanes, they are at a higher risk of being involved in an accident because of how close they are to other vehicles, drivers who do not anticipate being passed in stopped or slow-moving traffic, and reduced space to maneuver.
- Under the influence of drugs or alcohol and speeding. Around 50% of motorcycle accidents involve alcohol or speeding.
- Hitting a fixed object. Motorcycles colliding with a fixed object make up 25% of fatalities; however, this is only 18% for car accident fatalities.
- Road hazards. Motorcycles are smaller and less stable than cars. This means things like slick roads, uneven lane heights, potholes, and other hazards are a bigger threat to them.
Motorcycle Accident-Related Injuries
Injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident are usually more severe than what is seen in car accidents. Some of the most common injuries seen include the following:
- Cuts
- Road rash
- Facial disfigurement
- Burns
- Tissue damage
- Fractured bones, especially the pelvis, and collarbone
- Traumatic brain injuries
Any injury sustained in a motorcycle accident can cause serious complications like permanent disability, paralysis, blood loss, and even death. The severity of an injury can change depending on things like if the rider was exposed to the pavement, if they were wearing a helmet, and more.
Let Our Legal Team Help After a Florida Accident
Contact our legal team if you are involved in a Florida motorcycle or car accident. We can review the facts of your case and help you recover the compensation you are entitled to. At Zimmet & Zimmet, you can count on our attorneys to help you get the full compensation you are entitled to for the injuries and losses you sustain.
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