Motorcycle Accidents Can Cause Serious Injuries

Monday, September 9, 2019

Motorcycle Accidents Can Cause Serious Injuries

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Illinois motorcycle accidents result in thousands of injuries and fatalities annually. According to the Insurance Information Institute, motorcyclists are much more likely to suffer a fatal injury in a motor vehicle collision. In 2015, there were approximately 3,506 motorcycle accidents statewide, resulting in 147 fatalities and 2,643 injuries.

Motorcycles offer minimal protection during collisions, resulting in a motorcycle rider absorbing the impact of their bodies. The State of Illinois does not mandate helmets, making Illinois motorcyclists twice as likely to sustain head injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact the Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys of Malman Law for a free case evaluation and legal consultation today.

Common Motorcycle Injuries

Common injuries sustained in Illinois motorcycle accidents include the following:

• Head Injury – Traumatic head injuries are caused by a severe, violent strike or blow to the head that causes the brain to bump against the skull. The degree of the injury will depend upon several factors, including the nature of the accident and the force of the impact. Traumatic brain injuries can also result in severe long-term complications, as well as death.
• Road Rash – Road rash is an injury sustained when a motorcyclist’s body slides across the pavement, and concrete rubs against the skin as the body skids across the pavement at a high rate of speed. 
• Muscle Damage – During a motorcycle accident, a motorcyclist is at risk of suffering muscle damage anywhere on the body. 
• Biker’s Arm – Biker’s arm is a common injury and occurs when a motorcyclist is thrown from his or her bike and stretches his or her arms forward to lessen the impact. However, this movement can result in severe nerve damage to the biker’s arms.
• Lower Extremity Injury – Motorcyclists who are involved in a serious collision commonly suffer injuries to their lower extremities, including their legs and feet. 

What Damages Can I Recover?

Motorcycle injury victims who have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence may be entitled to compensation. Injury victims who have incurred medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering can file a lawsuit to recover their economic damages. Injury victims who have suffered non-economic damages, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may also file a lawsuit to recover compensation.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Illinois Motorcycle Accidents?

The statute of limitations is the time limit by which someone must file a lawsuit. In the State of Illinois, a personal injury lawsuit must be filed two years from the date of the accident. It is important to speak with a Chicago motorcycle accident attorney early on so that the statute of limitations is confirmed.

Call a Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today

At your initial consultation, the experienced attorneys of Malman Law will advise you as to the merits of your case. If you decide to retain us, Malman Law will immediately begin to investigate your claim, contact insurance companies, and assist you with pursuing a monetary settlement or personal injury litigation. 

To schedule a free consultation and case evaluation with a Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer, please give us a call at (312) 629-0099 or contact us online for more information.