How is a motorcycle accident different from a car accident?

Motorcyclists know all too well the issues and viewpoints they face as owners of a bike. But when it comes to accidents on the road, things can be even more complicated and often unfair.

How exactly is a motorcycle accident different from a car accident? Read on to learn about the challenges you’ll face if you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another party’s negligence. 

Fighting a Bias Against Motorcycle Drivers

Motorcyclists are often pegged as aggressive and reckless when it comes to on-the-road behavior—and this stereotype can be amplified at the scene of a collision. Many people consider motorcyclists to be irresponsible on the road—and this includes jurors. It is essential for any legal case regarding a motorcycle accident to expose biases and show in court that the bike owner has a history as a responsible driver. Insurance adjusters may also try to place blame on the motorcycle owner, even if the driver of a car is responsible. 

Serious Injuries Resulting From A Motocycle Accident

Overall, motorcycle accident injuries tend to be more severe than those in an auto accident. Motorcycle riding is obviously more open and exposed, which increases risk. One particularly difficult injury is known simply as road rash—many motorcyclists who have been in accidents consider this to be more painful than even broken bones. Road rash should be worked into any compensation claim, as it is a part of recovery just as a fracture would be. 

Environmental Risks 

Simply being on the open road can put you at risk—both when it comes to safety and who is to blame when something goes wrong. In many collisions, a car driver blames the motorcyclist when the weather isn’t ideal. While rain and wind gusts can definitely affect a motorcycle more than a car, the truth of the matter is cars often do not leave enough room for motorcyclists to make corrections. Rain can also cause hazards and a heightened risk of losing control of a bike, and dark skies make it more difficult for car drivers to see motorcyclists. Car drivers will sometimes claim they can’t see motorcyclists even in ideal weather conditions, also known as a “Looked But Failed to See” (LBFTS) accident.

Have You Been Injured In A Motorcycle Accident?

If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident you need to speak with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Fairfax, Virginia personal injury law office at 703.277.2811 to schedule your free consultation. We help clients throughout Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia and look forward to helping you.