Riding a motorcycle is one of the most exhilarating activities you can do. The feeling of traversing an open road on two wheels is like flying! Unfortunately, motorcycle riders have less protection on the road. The risk of dying in a fatal crash is 28 times higher than those traveling in passenger cars. Motorcycle accidents happen because of the ride fails to exercise precautionary measures. Learning about the common injuries you can get from motorcycle accidents can help you be prepared.
If you’ve suffered serious injuries in a crash, a motorcycle accident attorney in Lansing can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. From broken bones and road rash to traumatic brain injuries, an experienced lawyer can navigate Michigan’s complex insurance laws and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Common Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents
The 2022-2023 Michigan State Police Traffic Crash Summary shows that about 3000 motorcycle-involved crashes are reported each year. Of these cases, more than a hundred are fatal. Fortunately, there is a decreasing trend in the figures. Motorcycle accident injuries are more complex because of the lack of a protective barrier. They can also be severe and may need immediate medical attention. Here’s a closer look at the common motorcycle injuries:
- Head and neck trauma – You may have concussions, which can manifest symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and headaches.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) – The effects of severe TBIs can be permanent. It may include behavioral and emotional changes, cognitive impairment, and permanent disability.
- Facial injuries – You may get broken bones in the face if you get thrown off your bike or collide with objects. It’s also possible to have complex fractures that need surgery.
- Dental damage such as broken, chipped, or lost teeth requires restorative dental procedures. Jaw injuries affect your ability to eat and speak, needing to undergo reconstructive surgery.
- Road rash – You may suffer from skin abrasions if you get dragged across the road surface. The injury varies from mild scrapes to deep wounds that expose layers of muscle and fat. The risk of infection increases, and skin grafting or wound care may be needed.
- Muscle injuries – The impact of the accident can cause strain, tear, or stretch the muscles. These can be painful and affect your mobility. Treatment involves ice, rest, compression, and elevation. This should be followed by physical therapy and rehabilitation to help you recover strength and flexibility.
Can You Claim Compensation for Your Injuries?
The recovery times of these injuries vary from weeks to years. The impact on your finances can be significant. Consult a Michigan personal injury lawyer to recover calculable and verifiable losses such as:
- Medical expenses – These are current and future medical expenses incurred from the accident. Examples include doctor consultation, ambulance fees, hospitalization, surgery, medicines, and transportation costs.
- Lost wages – Compensation for lost wages for not being able to work after the accident.
- Future income loss – Coverage for lost income if you can’t work for an extended period.
- Rehabilitation – This includes occupational, speech, physical, and other types of rehabilitation.
- Non-economic damages – There is also compensation for less tangible injuries due to your motorcycle accident. Examples include pain, suffering, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Seeking compensation for this type of damage is more challenging because it doesn’t come with invoices or receipts. A Michigan motorcycle accident lawyer will help you determine the amount you should receive.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident?
What you do after a motorcycle accident largely depends on whether you sustained injuries and what these injuries are.
Always remember to prioritize safety and seek medical attention regardless of the severity of your injuries. Once the paramedics arrive, report all your symptoms and injuries to help them determine the suitable treatment.
If you plan to file for compensation, make sure to do the following:
- Discuss what happened with the police: Contact the police and give them all the details of the accident. This will ensure that any traffic citations or charges are correctly assigned. Don’t forget to ask for a copy of the police report. The document is important for court proceedings and filing an insurance claim.
- Collect evidence: Gather important evidence such as hospital bills, CCTV footage, and photos of your injuries. Keep a detailed account of any ongoing treatments that can affect the amount of compensation you can receive.
- Get the contact details of the parties involved: The contact information of the parties involved is crucial if legal action is needed. This will speed up any required follow-up of your lawyer for building a strong case.
There are also actions that you MUST AVOID doing, such as:
- Removing anything from your body: Don’t take off your clothes. If you feel something stuck, wait for the paramedics to arrive.
- Moving your motorcycle: The police will inspect the scene of the accident. Avoid tampering with the evidence unless you were pinned under the bike.
- Admit fault without your lawyer: Don’t say anything that might give the impression that you caused the accident. Let your lawyer take care of the legalities.
- Flee from the scene of the accident: Fleeing may increase your liability. You may suffer penalties such as jail time, fines, or license suspension.
Michigan doesn’t put a cap or limit on the compensation you can receive. This applies to all types of damages unless it involves medical malpractice or product liability. The jury can set any amount for motorcycle accident victims. The amount may decrease if you share the blame for the crash.
How a Lansing Motorcycle Crash Lawyer Can Assist You
The events following a motorcycle accident can overwhelm you, especially while dealing with physical injuries. Unfortunately, insurance companies go to great lengths just to lowball you. You need an experienced Lansing motorcycle accident lawyer to advocate for you.
The lawyer will guide you through the legal technicalities after a motorcycle crash. They will make sure that you have the required evidence to strengthen your case and maximize compensation.
Contact The Clark Law Office Today
The Clark Law Office is composed of top-notch lawyers with expertise in handling personal injury cases. We are committed to protecting our clients from insurers who take advantage of their vulnerable state. Need a personal injury lawyer in Lansing? We are eager to help. Book an appointment today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Lansing
What are the most common injuries from a motorcycle accident in Lansing?
Motorcyclists often suffer road rash, broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, internal injuries, and soft tissue damage. The severity of injuries depends on factors like speed, protective gear, and the impact of the crash.
What should I do if I suffer a serious injury in a Lansing motorcycle accident?
First, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you feel fine, some injuries—like concussions or internal bleeding—may not be obvious right away. Then, report the accident to the police, gather evidence if possible, and contact a Lansing motorcycle accident lawyer to understand your legal options.
Can I recover compensation for my motorcycle accident injuries?
Yes. If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs. Michigan’s no-fault insurance laws can be complex, so consulting an attorney can help maximize your claim.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident injury claim in Lansing?
Michigan law generally allows three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, exceptions may apply, such as if the accident involved a government vehicle. It’s best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.
Are motorcycle injuries more severe than car accident injuries?
Yes. Since motorcycles lack the protective structure of a car, riders are more vulnerable to serious or fatal injuries, even in low-speed crashes. While car accidents in Lansing can result in serious harm, motorcyclists face a much higher risk of catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and severe road rash. Helmets, protective gear, and defensive riding can help reduce injury risks, but they don’t eliminate them entirely.
Should I see a doctor even if I don’t feel injured after a motorcycle accident?
Yes. Some injuries, like whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding, may not show immediate symptoms but can worsen over time. Seeing a doctor right away ensures proper treatment and creates medical documentation that could support your injury claim.
