Motorcycling continues to be a popular mode of transportation, a source of leisure, and a hobby for many. While enjoyable, it also carries significant risks. With the increasing presence of drivers and large trucks on the road, motorcyclists face a heightened risk of being involved in accidents.
Motorcyclists and drivers share the road and must do so as safely as possible. To prevent these fatal accidents, everyone should know the laws of the road and how to operate their vehicles.
If you’re part of a serious motorcycle accident, it’s crucial to have a knowledgeable attorney on your side. A lawyer well-versed in motorcycle accident cases will be able to fight for the compensation you deserve and ensure you aren’t stuck with a mountain of medical bills relating to the accident.
The Fitch Law Firm has represented victims’ and their families for more than three decades and continues to fight diligently for those injured or killed in severe motorcycle accidents.
May is recognized as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of safe riding practices and remind both motorcyclists and drivers to share the road responsibly. As the weather warms up, more riders hit the streets, making it crucial for everyone to stay vigilant and cautious.
During this month, we encourage drivers to be especially aware of motorcyclists, while riders should take steps to protect themselves by wearing proper gear and practicing defensive driving. By working together, we can help reduce accidents and keep our roads safer for everyone.
Ohio Motorcycle Accident Statistics
With over 500,000 motorcycles registered in Ohio, the state ranks in the top 5 for most motorcycle usage in the country. As the weather starts to get warmer, more motorcycles will be sharing the roads with other vehicles, and it is crucial to maintain heightened awareness while driving or riding. According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, 82% of motorcycle crashes occur between May and October.
In 2023, 230 Ohioans tragically lost their lives in motorcycle accidents, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation (Ohio DOT). Shockingly, 78% of these fatalities involved untrained riders, highlighting the critical need for proper training for all motorcyclists.
These alarming statistics emphasize the fact that motorcycle crashes are preventable, but it requires a united effort from both riders and drivers to prioritize safety on the roads.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle crash, an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process, fight for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, and hold all involved parties accountable.
A skilled attorney can also assist in obtaining the training records and expert testimony needed to build a strong case, ensuring that riders and their families get the justice and support they deserve.
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Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can happen in an instant and are often caused by factors that are preventable with proper awareness and caution. Understanding the most common causes of these crashes is essential for both motorcyclists and drivers who share the road.
Below is a list of frequent causes of motorcycle accidents that drivers and riders should be aware of:
- Impaired/Drunk Driving
- Unsafe Road Conditions
- Speeding/Reckless Driving
- Distracted Drivers
- Road Hazards (Potholes, loose gravel)
Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents is the first step in preventing them. Whether due to driver negligence, road hazards, or rider error, these factors can have serious consequences.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle crash, consulting with an experienced attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists face unique risks on the road, and staying safe requires following key safety practices and preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer, taking proactive steps to minimize risk can significantly reduce the chances of an accident. Here are essential safety tips for motorcyclists to help protect yourself and others:
- Always Wear Protective Gear
Prioritize wearing a motorcycle helmet, as it can be a life-saving piece of equipment in the event of an accident. Additionally, consider wearing protective clothing such as durable jackets, gloves, and eye/face protection to minimize the risk of injury in a crash.
- Maintain Your Bike
Regularly inspect and maintain essential parts, such as the brakes, tires, and lights. Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to mechanical failures, which may result in dangerous accidents.
- Avoid Blind Spots
Stay vigilant about other vehicles’ blind spots and make a conscious effort to avoid them. Ensuring that you’re visible to other drivers is key to reducing the likelihood of a collision, particularly when changing lanes or merging.
- Remain Visible
Keep your headlights on at all times, even during the day, to ensure you’re easily seen by other drivers. Use turn signals whenever changing lanes or turning and consider wearing reflective or brightly colored clothing to enhance your visibility, especially in low-light conditions.
- Maintain Safe Following Distance
Always keep a safe distance between your motorcycle and other vehicles on the road. This gives you enough time to react quickly to sudden braking or unexpected changes in traffic, helping to prevent accidents caused by close following.
- Avoid Road Hazards
Be cautious of potential hazards like potholes, road debris, or slippery oil patches. These can cause a loss of control and increase the risk of crashing. Stay alert and maneuver carefully to avoid obstacles when riding.
Safety Tips for Drivers Around Motorcycles
Sharing the road with motorcycles requires extra caution and awareness from drivers. Because motorcycles are smaller and more vulnerable than other vehicles, even a minor mistake can lead to a serious or fatal crash. By following a few key safety practices, drivers can help prevent accidents and protect motorcyclists on the road. Here are important tips every driver should keep in mind when driving near motorcycles.
- Always be alert
It is crucial to consistently scan the road for motorcycles because they are often difficult to see, especially in dense traffic areas. Avoid any distractions such as your phone or any other electronic devices to stay alert.
- Avoid Lane Sharing
While motorcycles are compact, there is not enough space for both a car and a motorcycle to safely share a lane. Always ensure that motorcyclists have ample room to operate independently, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring their safety on the road.
- Check Blind Spots and Look Before Turning
Motorcycles are smaller and can easily be overlooked by other drivers, especially in their blind spots. Always check your surroundings and make sure you signal your intentions well in advance before making a turn. This extra precaution can help prevent collisions with vehicles that may not see you, reducing the risk of a potentially serious accident.
- Don’t tailgate motorcycles
Motorcycles can stop relatively quickly; however, a tailgating driver may not have enough time to stop and cause a collision. Motorcyclists have limited protection, so even in the case of fender bender, it is highly possible that the motorcyclist will be ejected from their bike and sustain severe injuries.
- Be extra cautious during hazardous weather
Motorcyclists are more likely to crash when the roads are wet or slippery. Make sure to keep an eye out for motorcyclists when the weather is less than ideal to avoid any unwanted contact.
Common Injuries Caused by Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often cause severe injuries because riders don’t have the same level of protection as those in other vehicles. Even with a helmet and protective gear, motorcyclists are highly exposed during a crash, making them more vulnerable to serious and sometimes life-altering injuries.
Understanding the types of injuries that commonly occur in motorcycle accidents can help victims recognize the importance of seeking both medical and legal help.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Even when wearing a helmet, riders can suffer head injuries from the impact. TBIs range from mild concussions to severe brain damage and often require long-term care and rehabilitation.
- Road Rash
When a rider slides across the pavement, it can cause severe abrasions known as road rash. Road rash can lead to nerve damage, infections, and permanent scarring if not treated properly.
- Spinal Cord Injuries
Damage to the spine may cause partial or complete paralysis. These injuries can permanently alter a person’s mobility and quality of life and often result in significant medical expenses.
- Fractures and Broken Bones
Arms, legs, ribs, and wrists are especially prone to fractures during a crash. Some breaks may require surgery, physical therapy, or long-term recovery.
- Internal Injuries
The impact of a crash can cause damage to internal organs, often without immediate symptoms. These injuries can be life-threatening and require emergency medical attention.
- Facial Injuries
Riders not wearing full-face helmets are at a higher risk of suffering facial fractures, dental injuries, or disfigurement during a collision.
Motorcycle accident injuries can be physically, emotionally, and financially devastating. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, it’s important to consult an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer.
An attorney can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages—allowing you to focus on your recovery while they handle the legal complexities.
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What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Following a crash, it’s essential to remain calm and take the necessary actions to safeguard your health, legal rights, and chances of receiving compensation.
Whether you’re at the scene or navigating the days and weeks that follow, knowing what to do can make a significant difference in your recovery and your case.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
- Ensure Safety and Call 911
If you are able to, relocate to a secure area and contact emergency services right away. Reporting the incident helps ensure prompt medical attention and the creation of an official police report.
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine after an accident, it’s essential to get medical attention. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away but could worsen with time.
- Document the Scene
Take photos of the accident scene, your motorcycle, any vehicles involved, road conditions, and visible injuries. This evidence may play a vital role in your legal case later on.
- Exchange Information
Gather the names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers of everyone involved. Additionally, obtain the contact information of any witnesses.
- Do Not Admit Fault
Avoid discussing who was at fault at the scene, even casually. Statements made at the moment can be used against you later.
- Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurer about the accident as soon as possible but stick to the facts and avoid giving detailed statements without legal guidance.
- Keep All Records and Receipts
Save medical records, repair estimates, prescription receipts, and any documentation related to missed work or other accident-related expenses.
- Consult a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Before accepting any settlement or giving a formal statement to the insurance company, speak with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney to protect your rights.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Ohio?
According to the Ohio Revised Code, Section 2305.10, you have two years from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a personal injury claim. This statute of limitations is strictly enforced, meaning if you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation entirely, no matter how strong your case may be.
It’s important to understand that while two years might seem like plenty of time, building a solid claim takes work. Gathering evidence, reviewing medical records, interviewing witnesses, and negotiating with insurance companies all take time, and delaying can weaken your case.
Additionally, if the accident resulted in a fatality, surviving family members may also have two years to file a wrongful death claim, starting from the date of death, not necessarily the date of the accident.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash, speaking with an experienced Ohio motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible ensures your case is filed on time and supported with strong evidence.
Early legal guidance can also protect you from insurance tactics aimed at minimizing your compensation.
Contact an Ohio Motorcycle Accident Attorney
At The Fitch Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges motorcycle accident victims face. From dealing with insurance adjusters to building a strong legal case, we’re here to handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing.
We offer personalized, aggressive representation to fight for the compensation you deserve—including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Contact us today at (614)-953-6072, or our website, for a free consultation and let us help you focus on recovering.
