Thousands of motorcyclists are killed and injured in motorcycle accidents each year in the United States. During 2016, 5,286 motorcyclists died in crashes, and 88,000 riders were injured in motorcycle accidents during 2015. Because of the lack of protection motorcyclists and their passengers have in a collision, traumatic injuries are common in crashes involving motorcycles. Sadly, many of these injuries are the result of accidents caused by other parties that could have been avoided.
When another party causes an injury in a traffic accident, that party may be held liable for damages. Our Maryland motorcycle accident attorneys assist victims in filing insurance claims for damages. Call 410-661-9440 for a free consultation with an attorney at Pinder Plotkin LLC.
Five Common Injuries Sustained in Motorcycle Accidents
Many of the injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents are severe and life-threatening. Motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) — According to a recently released study, researchers found that TBIs were the most common type of injury to drivers and passengers in the accidents they studied. A TBI can result in long-term disabilities that impact the victim’s daily life, including preventing the person from working. Any head or brain injury can result in substantial damages for the accident victim.
- Broken Bones and Fractures — Fractures and broken bones are common injuries, especially when the rider is thrown from the motorcycle or pinned between vehicles. In many cases, the victim needs surgery and physical therapy to recover from the injury. Some victims never recover fully from broken bones and fractures.
- Burns and Abrasions — “Road rash” is a common injury in motorcycle accidents. Abrasions are caused when the rider’s body slides along the pavement. The abrasions can cause extreme pain, scarring, and disfigurement. In addition, riders can suffer severe burns if the vehicles catch fire.
- Spinal Cord and Back Injuries — Accident victims who suffer spinal cord and back injuries may be partially or fully paralyzed. In some cases, a victim may require ongoing medical treatment and personal care for the rest of the victim’s life. These damages result in substantial medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
- Internal Bleeding and Organ Damage — Riders should always see a doctor after a motorcycle accident, even if they believe they did not suffer a severe injury. Symptoms of internal bleeding and organ damage may not appear until hours after the crash; however, these injuries can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.
Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Maryland
Many insurance companies use unfair tactics to deny or undervalue motorcycle accident claims. For example, the companies use the unfair stereotype that motorcyclists are aggressive drivers who often exceed speed limits and drive recklessly. This stereotype is unfounded, but it does not stop the insurance company from attempting to use it to pay less than your claim is worth.
In addition, insurance companies try to blame the motorcyclist in an accident the rider did not cause. If the company can cast doubt on the rider’s involvement in the crash, the rider’s claim may be denied, or he may receive much less than the claim is worth. The tactic is common in accidents involving failing to yield the right of way crashes. Alleging that the motorcyclist was speeding is one way the insurance company can place blame on the driver.
The Maryland motorcycle accident attorneys on the Pinder Plotkin Legal Team understand how insurance companies handle motorcycle accident claims. We fight insurance companies to protect your legal rights to get you the compensation you deserve for your claim. However, the sooner you contact our office, the more we can do to protect your rights. We encourage you to call for your free consultation today.
Damages in a Motorcycle Accident Claim
The damages in a motorcycle accident claim include the financial losses of the victim. Financial losses typically include the cost of medical care, property damage to the motorcycle, loss of income, travel expenses, personal care, and other out-of-pocket costs. However, the victim also deserves to be compensated for the pain and suffering caused by the accident. These non-economic damages include physical pain, scarring, mental anguish, emotional stress, and permanent impairment.
Carefully documenting damages is important in a motorcycle accident claim. The Pinder Plotkin Legal Team works closely with you, your doctors, and others to ensure that we include all damages in the settlement demand. If the insurance company refuses to negotiate a fair settlement, we are prepared to take the case to court to protect your rights.
Call a Maryland Motorcycle Accident Attorney for Help
For legal advice and help with your insurance claim, contact Pinder Plotkin LLC for a FREE consultation with one of our lawyers. Call 410-661-9440 now to discuss your motorcycle accident with an experienced and trusted accident attorney in Maryland.
