Riding a motorcycle is different than driving a car – regardless of whether it is for fun or as primary transportation. It can be thrilling, and it might even help you unwind. Despite the fun and ease of use that motorcycles offer; they are inherently more dangerous than cars. They do not provide the same protection that a traditional vehicle does and they’re harder for motorists to see. These just two of the reasons that increase the amount and severity of motorcycle injuries compared to automobiles.
For our motorcycle enthusiasts out there in South Florida, understanding the most common motorcycle injuries can help you take some of the necessary precautions to avoid them. Just like when you’re behind the wheel of a car, your safety is never guaranteed on the road, and that’s why the things you can control yourself are more important. At Weinstein & Cohen, we care about your safety and that’s why we’ve compiled this list of some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries.
INJURIES
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcycle riders continue to be overrepresented in fatal traffic crashes. In 2019, 5,014 motorcyclists died, and the most common motorcycle injury was lower leg fractures. Other motorcycle injuries include:
- Fractures of arms, wrists, and hands
- Road rash
- Back muscle injuries
- Neck muscle injuries
- Spinal injuries and fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal injuries – bleeding or organ damage
RIDING SAFELY
To avoid injuries, the best thing you can do is to ride safely. And the number one thing you can do is wear a helmet. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that, since 2002, more than 25,000 lives have been saved by wearing motorcycle helmets. This includes 1,872 lives saved in 2017. If all motorcyclists had worn helmets, an additional 802 lives could have been saved in 2017. Motorcycle helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle operators and 41% effective for motorcycle passengers.
Some other safety gear to consider beyond a helmet includes:
- Boots
- Jackets and pants designed to protect against road rash
- Never wear shorts and sandals
ENSURE VISIBILITY
Motorcycles are smaller than a car or truck. That means you’re always at a visibility disadvantage. Make sure your lights are always working correctly. And if you need to ride at night, consider purchasing a reflective vest or other material to enhance your visibility to others on the road.
RIDE CAREFULLY
Above all else, ride carefully. Avoid vehicle blind spots, avoid distractions, and always avoid alcohol or drug use. Being careful is your responsibility.
SUFFERED A MOTORCYCLE INJURY
At Weinstein & Cohen, we have more than 50 years of combined experience fighting for accident victim’s rights. Motorcycle accidents is a specialty practice of ours. Our experienced Miami and Naples accident attorneys at Weinstein & Cohen will put your priorities first. If you or someone you care about has been injured or involved in an accident across South Florida or Southwest Florida, contact the accident lawyers and Miami and Naples personal injury attorneys at Weinstein & Cohen at 305-374-1011 or 239-793-3331, or visit fairnessforall.com for an absolutely free legal consultation to learn more about your options.
