Riding a motorcycle offers a sense of freedom as you cruise down the open road without the constraints of being inside a vehicle. However liberating as it may seem, motorcycles are extremely dangerous, and accidents are devastating. Although motorcycle and car accidents result in injury, the similarities stop there, as motorcycles are much more hazardous. It is no secret that motorcycles are far more dangerous than cars. Accidents are especially tragic for motorcyclists as they are more susceptible to catastrophic injuries due to limited outside protection. Motorcyclists also deal with unfair biases and stereotypes when establishing fault. That said, motorcycle accident claims are much harder to resolve than car accident claims. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact our adept Santa Clara Motorcycle Accident Attorneys, who can help you seek reasonable compensation for your damages. Please continue reading to learn about the critical differences between motorcycles and car accidents.
What are the main differences between motorcycle and car accidents?
Firstly, motorcyclists are considered vulnerable road users as they have limited protection compared to car occupants. Cars are built with metal frames and equipped with safety features that protect occupants from the impact of a collision. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are not afforded the same protections. Without airbags, a seatbelt, or a sturdy outside frame, there is nothing to shield riders from the impact of a crash. Helmets are one of the only protections motorcyclists are offered. In California, motorcyclists are required to wear a helmet at all times. That said, motorcyclists are more susceptible to life-threatening injuries. While injuries can vary depending on the accident’s severity, riders often suffer severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, broken bones, internal injuries, and road rash. Car accident victims, on the other hand, are more susceptible to injuries such as whiplash, concussions, fractures, and internal injuries.
Do motorcyclists face stereotypes?
It is critical to note that motorcyclists face serious stereotypes that influence public opinion on those that choose to ride motorcycles. They are often viewed as thrill-seekers that like to engage in reckless behavior. This stigma significantly affects a motorcyclist’s ability to recover monetary compensation for their damages, as there is an unfair bias that causes insurance companies and other parties to assume the motorcyclist is always at fault for collisions. Due to the stereotypes and increased severity of injuries, motorcycle accident claims require more evidence to satisfy the burden or proof. This may include accident reconstruction experts, expert testimonies, and other evidence to build a solid case and establish liability. Car accident victims do not have to deal with unfair biases as they are not automatically considered reckless.
Establishing liability in a motorcycle accident can be tricky. That said, if you were injured in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, it is in your best interest to retain the legal services of a skilled Santa Clara motorcycle accident attorney from the Law Offices of Brian J. O’Grady today. Our firm is prepared to help you fight for the just compensation you deserve.
