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Where Do Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
As we know by now, motorcycle accidents can be some of the most severe because riders have very little protection. However, we also want you to understand where many motorcycle accidents occur and how they happen. Unfortunately, several drivers are negligent in these areas, and it's vital for motorcyclists to stay as safe as possible.
Intersections
Intersections are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. Left-turn accidents involving motorcycles are some of the most common as motorcyclists try to turn left and vehicles speed through the intersection. In some cases, the vehicle may try to make their left-hand turn in front of a motorcyclist. Either one can lead to a severe accident.
Intersections, in general, can become more dangerous if a driver is distracted or intoxicated. Negligent drivers may run red lights or stop signs, crashing into any vehicle driving across their traffic. As a result, the motorcyclist can sustain some of the worst injuries.
What Makes Motorcycle Crashes So Dangerous?
We know how motorcycle accidents occur at an alarming rate. Unfortunately, they're some of the most dangerous situations you can encounter. But what makes them so dangerous? Below, we will explain the biggest concerns for motorcyclists and how some of the most severe harm occurs.
Lack of Protection
If you drive a passenger vehicle, you know that you have a large metal frame to protect you. In a crash, the frame will experience the damage first and soften the impact of the crash on your body. However, a motorcyclist is not afforded those same protections. The only type of protection that a motorcyclist has is the gear they use, such as special clothing or a helmet.
While the gear and equipment will help, it does not soften the impact. If a car crashes into your motorcycle, your body is susceptible to severe harm. Your body might experience severe injuries because of the collision, making it more challenging to recover from a motorcycle crash than other types of accidents.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
When a motorcycle accident occurs, it's crucial to recognize the cause. Proving causation allows injured individuals to seek the compensation they deserve, so looking for signs of distracted driving or other negligence is crucial following a crash.
Here are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents and what you can do to stay safe.
Left Turns
Left turns are very dangerous for all drivers. Motorcyclists are commonly injured when drivers either speed through intersections or attempt to turn in front of a passing motorcyclist. Intersection accidents involving motorcyclists often occur because of:
- Speeding
- Distractions
- Reckless behavior
- Intoxication
Any motorist making a left turn must yield when necessary (unless they have a green left turn light). Failure to do so puts many people at risk.
Low Visibility
Motorcycles are smaller than other vehicle types. They may not be as visible to other drivers on the road. As such, a driver might not see a motorcyclist in their mirror or blind spot as they begin to merge. This can cause drivers to sideswipe motorcyclists, pushing them off their motorcycles or causing them to slide on the road. As a result, the motorcyclist might suffer severe injuries.
5 Most Common Injuries In a Motorcycle Accident
So many people enjoy the freedoms they feel when riding a motorcycle. In fact, millions of motorcycles are registered in the United States. However, they are some of the most dangerous types of vehicles. A crash can result in some of the most severe injuries. If you ride a motorcycle, you should know the most common injuries you can sustain as the result of someone else's negligence.
Five of the most common motorcycle injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Back and spine injuries
- Burn injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Leg injuries
If you suffer harm in a motorcycle accident, call our firm to discuss your rights: 703-591-0067.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries can occur in motorcycle accidents because riders don't have the same protection as motorists in cars. Even with a helmet, riders are susceptible to severe damages as their head hits the ground. The impact can cause your brain to rattle around inside your skull, which is enough to cause a concussion or another mild TBI.
Do I Need to Call 9-1-1 Immediately After a Crash?
The things you do after a car accident can significantly impact your claim. One thing that you may be wondering is if you have to contact law enforcement immediately following the collision. The answer is not so clear-cut, as the situation will always determine if you need to contact 9-1-1 following a crash.
When You Need to Call 9-1-1
The law in the state of Virginia says you need to call 9-1-1 if the crash results in physical injury or property damage exceeding $1,500. In these situations, it's necessary to call 9-1-1 and report the crash. Law enforcement officers will come out and investigate the accident scene, then compile a written report within 24 hours of the accident.
If you do report the accident and law enforcement officers don't come out to the accident scene, you must file an accident report with the DMV yourself.
Keep in mind; it is illegal to leave the scene without calling 9-1-1 when you are legally obligated to do so. Not only that, but you run the risk of negatively impacting your claim if you don't report the crash. Accident reports can serve as significant evidence to help you build your case.
How Does Memory Loss Impact My Claim?
The things you do and say after a car accident can impact your case. However, you may suffer injuries that can also cause you to experience memory loss. If this happens, insurance companies may look to take advantage of your rights.
Our team wants you to understand how memory loss can impact your claim and what it means for you moving forward.
How Can Memory Loss Occur?
Memory loss is a common symptom of a head injury. For instance, a crash may cause your head to slam into the vehicle's frame or the steering wheel. The impact alone can cause anywhere from mild to severe brain injuries. No matter how severe the brain injury is, it can be accompanied by memory loss (short- and long-term).
Do Insurance Adjusters Use Memory Loss to Their Advantage?
If you suffer memory loss, insurance adjusters may use it against you. They might try to discredit your claim, saying that your statement is not reliable because of your damages. It is important that you take immediate steps after a crash so that you can safeguard your rights.
5 Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident
Right after a crash occurs, you must work to protect your rights. Unfortunately, many people commit some of the most common mishaps that prevent them from obtaining as much compensation as they deserve. In fact, insurance adjusters will often look for the mistakes you make so that they can minimize or deny your claim.
If you suffer injuries because of someone else's actions, it is crucial to seek compensation. As such, you should recognize some of the mistakes that you may encounter throughout the process.
These are 5 mistakes that you should avoid after a crash occurs
- Speaking with insurance companies on your own
- Apologizing for the accident
- Leaving the scene without reporting the crash
- Missing out on vital information
- Trying to navigate your claim without a lawyer
Injured in a car accident? Call our firm today at 703-591-0067, and get a free and confidential consultation.
Speaking with Insurance Companies On Your Own
Drunk Driving Around the Holidays
We know what the holidays mean: plenty of celebrations. Unfortunately, celebrating and getting together with loved ones often means drinking. Responsible drivers know not to drive while intoxicated, but not everyone thinks with other people's safety in mind.
It's crucial to recognize how drunk driving increases around the holidays and the numbers concerning the dangers. Our Fairfax drunk driving accident attorneys are here to explain.
The Numbers to Know
Around the holidays, drunk driving makes up about 37% of all crashes. In the eight-year span from 2010 to 2018, roughly 6,000 fatalities occurred during the holidays because of drunk drivers. The week from Christmas to New Year's Eve, in particular, can be one of the most dangerous because people have school or work off, and they are spending more time celebrating.
On average, there are roughly 300 drunk driving deaths during the week between Christmas and New Year's. It is a worrisome statistic if you intend on driving during this time frame, and you should be sure to watch for potential negligence.
Safe Toys and Gifts Month: What You Need to Know
December is officially Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month. And with the holidays here and the season of giving, you should be sure to know the best ways to give to those you love. Of course, there is always a risk with certain gifts, but you should pay close attention to what you are giving and how they may cause harm.
How Can I Participate?
Participating in Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month means ensuring you follow guidelines that keep your loved ones safe, no matter their age.
- Check all toys and gifts before you buy them to ensure they are free of defects and problems that can create choking hazards or other hazards.
- Know who you are purchasing for and what is appropriate for age ranges. You never want to buy an item for a child when they are not within the target demographic.
- Understand what materials are on the gifts. Lead can be on toys, and exposure can result in poisoning, especially for children who may try to eat the toy.
- Give soft toys and those without small pieces to avoid a choking hazard or something that can harm your child or loved one.
What Are the Dangers of Black Friday?
We all know what Black Friday is and how many people respond. It's the time of year when countless consumers rush to nearby retailers for the best deals on items. However, one crucial thing you should know is that the day also increases the dangers for all those on the road and in stores. Below, we will explain some of the most common dangers and what you can do to protect yourself.
In-Store Dangers
Black Friday causes a big frenzy as people try to grab the limited stock of the deals available to consumers. As such, people can become aggressive when someone else gets their desired item. It is up to stores to provide proper security measures to prevent harm. If you suffer harm in the store, speak with a lawyer about your rights.
Parking Lot Dangers
As we mentioned, several consumers go out the night of Thanksgiving and the morning after to get the best deals. As a result, parking lots are far more crowded than usual with impatient shoppers who want to get in the store. In parking lots, drivers and pedestrians are at significant risk of harm when others rush to get into a parking spot.
703-591-0067
10513 Judicial Drive, Suite 200, Fairfax, VA 22030
703-591-0067
From our office in Fairfax, Shevlin Smith, P.C. serves clients throughout Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C., including Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Ashburn, Burke, Centreville, Dale City, Fair Oaks, Leesburg, Manassas, McLean, Oakton, Reston, Springfield, and Woodbridge, as well as Fairfax County, Arlington County, Fauquier County, Loudoun County, and Prince William County.
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