Rear-end accidents may not seem like such a big deal for those inside traditional passenger vehicles, but they are a very big deal for motorcyclists. When a motorcyclist is rear-ended, this can lead to major injuries that affect their entire lives. Here, we want to discuss why rear-end accidents are so dangerous for motorcyclists as well as some of the most common injuries that result from these incidents.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Rear-End Collisions
Motorcycle rear-end collisions happen in a wide variety of ways. More often than not, these incidents occur due to the careless or negligent actions of a rear driver. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Impairment by alcohol or drugs
- Distraction by cell phones or other devices
- Operating too fast for conditions
- Following a motorcyclist too closely
- Fatigued driving
In many cases, these incidents involve only the motorcyclist and one other vehicle. However, there are times when a motorcyclist ends up rear-ending another vehicle because they themselves were rear-ended. This could result in multiple impacts; one from the rear and then another with the vehicle in front of the motorcyclist.
Motorcycle Rear-End Collision Injuries
Rear-end accidents are much more dangerous for motorcyclists than they are for others inside traditional passenger vehicles. Motorcyclists do not have much protection from the force of these impacts, even if they are wearing a helmet. These incidents can lead to the motorcyclist coming into direct contact with the vehicle or with the ground, which can cause significant injuries.
It is not uncommon for a motorcycle rear-end collision to lead to the following:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Severe external head trauma
- Broken or dislocated bones
- Severe lacerations
- Amputation or crush injuries
- Road rash
- Internal organ damage
- Spinal cord trauma
In addition to these physical injuries that a motorcyclist could sustain, there are also various types of psychological and emotional traumas that can occur. Unfortunately, the impact, as well as the injuries and medical treatment, can all lead to significant physical and emotional pain and suffering. Some motorcyclists may even sustain post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of the collision.
Working With an Attorney
If you or somebody you care about has been injured in a motorcycle rear-end collision, we encourage you to reach out to a skilled lawyer as soon as possible. Even though it may seem like fault is relatively straightforward, that may not always be the case. When you have an attorney by your side, you will have an advocate ready to represent you with your insurance claim and at a personal injury trial, if one becomes necessary. Your lawyer will fully investigate what happened, gather the proof needed to show liability, and negotiate vigorously with those involved to recover complete compensation.
Rear-end motorcycle accident victims should be able to recover compensation for their medical bills, lost income, property damage expenses, and pain and suffering damages. The total amount of compensation available to motorcycle crash victims will vary depending on a variety of factors, including the severity of the injuries, the length of the recovery time, the level of property damage, and whether or not a person is able to work.
