Springfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Illinois has one of the highest rates of registered motorcycles in the country, with approximately 300,000 registered motorcycles in the state, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. While motorcyclists in Illinois enjoy riding for transportation and pleasure, the sheer number of motorcycles on the roads also means that riders are at a high risk of sustaining injuries in a crash. While single-vehicle accidents involving motorcycles do occur, many collisions involve other vehicles and happen because of a driver’s negligence. Getting hurt in a motorcycle crash can be devastating, but it may be possible to file a claim for compensation. Contact our experienced Springfield motorcycle accident lawyer today to find out about your options.
Get the Facts About Springfield Motorcycle Accidents
Springfield motorcycle accidents have many different causes, and they can occur on major highways like I-55 or on local roads. Even in low-speed crashes, motorcyclists can sustain devastating injuries since they do not have the same protections as a vehicle occupant inside a car or truck. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there have been an average of 6,000 motorcycle fatalities nationwide annually in recent years, and motorcycle deaths represent almost 15 percent of all traffic deaths. There are approximately 80,000 nonfatal injuries each year in addition to those fatal crash reports.
The NHTSA reports that alcohol is often a factor in motorcycle crashes — including alcohol consumption by other motorists who cause collisions involving motorcyclists, as well as motorcycle rider drinking. Other common causes of serious crashes include:
- Car or truck driver following too closely behind a motorcyclist;
- Car or truck driver failing to see a motorcyclist in a blind spot and changing lanes;
- Hazardous roads, including slick areas and gravel;
- Dooring, or a motorcyclist being struck by a driver-side car door when a motorcyclist rides alongside parked cars; and
- Distracted car or truck drivers striking a motorcyclist.
Common Injuries in Springfield Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accident injuries can be devastating. Beyond injuries that ultimately prove fatal, many nonfatal injuries in motorcycle collisions often result in permanent disabilities. Common types of injuries in Springfield motorcycle crashes include but are not limited to:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), including concussions;
- Spinal cord injuries (SCIs);
- Back and neck injuries;
- Severe road rash and abrasions;
- Broken bones;
- Disfigurement;
- Traumatic amputations; and
- Internal bleeding and organ damage.
Given that motorcyclists are fully exposed on their bikes, it is critical to take safety precautions in the event of a single-vehicle crash or a collision with another automobile. Riders should always wear a DOT-approved helmet, appropriate pants and jacket to help prevent road rash, and appropriate footwear to help protect against burns and to maintain grip. It is also important to wear gear that increases your visibility, particularly if you are riding at night.
Contact Patel Law, PC Today
If another party’s negligence caused your injuries in a motorcycle crash, it is critical to get in touch with an attorney who can help you to file a claim for compensation. One or more parties could be liable, and we can assist you with your insurance negotiations and a civil lawsuit against any responsible parties. Contact our experienced Springfield motorcycle accident lawyer today to learn more about how we can help you with your case.
