Motorcycle crashes often lead to devastating injuries for riders, even when the best protective equipment is worn. There is no question that a motorcyclist is more likely to suffer severe injuries in a crash than occupants of other motor vehicles. To illustrate these points, researchers will often use comparison studies which prove that severe injuries are 10 times more likely with motorcycle crashes.
Because motorcyclists are much more exposed on the road, there is a greater risk that a collision will result in life-changing injuries or death. While a helmet can lessen the degree of a traumatic brain injury by distributing the force of impact, helmets only go so far and do not protect the rest of the body. Injuries to the torso, arms, and legs are common. Riders can rely on boots, gauntlets, heavy pants and jackets for some protection. Even then, motorcyclists who wear all the recommended safety equipment can still suffer severe injuries or death.
What are the differences in injury rates?
A Canadian research team examined data on 26,831 patients injured in motorcycle crashes and 281,826 patients injured in car crashes. One of the first things they noted was that the injury rate for motorcycle crashes was three times higher than the injury rate for car crashes. Specifically, 2,194 out of every 100,000 registered motorcycle owners were injured, compared to 718 people for every 100,000 registered car owners.
In a collision, motorcyclists can risk suffering traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, paralysis, amputation, compound fractures, and road rash, among others. If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle crash, it is important to discuss your situation with a skilled personal injury attorney with experience representing motorcyclists.
Because motorcyclists are much more exposed on the road, there is a greater risk that a collision will result in life-changing injuries or death. While a helmet can lessen the degree of a traumatic brain injury by distributing the force of impact, helmets only go so far and do not protect the rest of the body. Injuries to the torso, arms, and legs are common. Riders can rely on boots, gauntlets, heavy pants and jackets for some protection. Even then, motorcyclists who wear all the recommended safety equipment can still suffer severe injuries or death.