Many Canadians take their motorcycles out for a spin during the warmer months of the year.
Riders enjoy the freedom that motorcycles allow, but sometimes that freedom comes at a price. Without the structure of a sedan or SUV, riders only have their helmets to protect them in the event of an accident. Such exposure can leave one vulnerable to injuries. In addition, circumstances along fast-paced roadways often create increasingly dangerous conditions, leading to catastrophic injuries in the event of a motorcycle accident.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
High speed is often the culprit in catastrophic injuries that motorcycle riders endure after an accident. Other drivers may not be checking their mirrors or blind spots when merging, braking suddenly and unexpectedly, or not leaving enough space when driving near a bike. All of these could play a factor in a collision. However, a rider may also experience unsafe road conditions. Gravel can be particularly difficult to maneuver with these types of vehicles, and unkempt roads with plenty of potholes pose an increased threat due to the force of driving over them.
Another reason for motorcycle accidents could be due to faulty machinery or parts. Many individuals take great pride in the upkeep of their bikes, using specialized features to enhance their driving experience and the motorcycle’s appearance. Unfortunately, in some cases, these parts can be dangerous, poorly made, or not correctly installed. They may cause problems for riders who are unable to stop safely or stall unexpectedly.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle Accidents often result in the rider being thrown from their bike, which can cause multiple injuries. Adrenaline may take over, leading the motorcycle owner to believe they are uninjured or less hurt than they really are. Spinal cord and brain injuries are common due to the extenuating circumstances the body has to endure when it hits the ground. This could cause the brain to swell from the trauma, or shift a disc in their vertebrae, which could leave the injured unable to move certain limbs, leaving them paralyzed. It is common to suffer from broken bones while trying to protect the head or kick away from a dangerous situation. Soft tissue damage from the impact of falling on the pavement can be particularly difficult to recover from as well.
Helmets are the only safety equipment that protects motorcyclists. Still, if their headgear is not properly secured or fitted to their head, a motorcycle accident can easily cause it to fall off. In some extreme accident cases, wrongful deaths happen due to high-speed collisions or an inadequate helmet.
A peaceful afternoon ride could turn into a life-altering event. If you survive a motorcycle accident, you will require immediate medical attention and care.
Working with an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Injury Lawyer
After suffering from any kind of motorcycle accident, your focus should be on your recovery. It can take time for medical professionals to understand your injuries accurately and determine a strategy to help improve your symptoms. However, taking the time to recover both mentally and physically can be taxing with mounting medical bills and limited financial means. In addition, you may be unable to return to your day job or require additional assistance to complete the tasks you were once able to do yourself.
Dealing with insurance companies can be a long, complex process, and you may consider filing a lawsuit to receive the compensation you need to get by. For example, you might bring a tort claim against another driver, the manufacturer of a faulty part, or the city if you were injured due to unsafe road conditions.
That’s where Bergeron Clifford comes in. Our firm has extensive experience working with clients who have suffered personal injuries due to motorcycle accidents. There are unique circumstances surrounding these incidents and their outcomes, and we can be in your corner to help ensure you are fairly compensated to cover medical and rehabilitation costs. If you are the family member of a deceased rider, we can also help file claims for Ontario accident and death benefits in addition to a tort claim for the emotional duress, pain, and suffering you have had to endure.
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury from a motorcycle accident, our team can give you the support you need to seek compensation. Contact us today for more information.
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Brain Injuries and Concussions
- Amputation
- Broken Bones and Orthopedic Injuries
- Chronic Pain, Headaches and Chronic Fatigue
- Injuries to Children
- Depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
- Wrongful Death
- Other Injuries and Claims
- Insurance Denials
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Contact Bergeron | Clifford LLP
Contact us if you have suffered a motor vehicle injury in Eastern Ontario. Call us at 866-384-5886 or fill out our online form. We can meet you in Kingston, Ottawa, Whitby, Carleton Place, Perth or wherever is most convenient for you.
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