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Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Grand Rapids, MI

Nothing beats the feeling of riding a powerful motorbike in the afternoon when the road seems to be empty. However, this feeling is accompanied by moments of carelessness, which can result in an injury that will change your life forever. Michigan, particularly Grand Rapids, is famous for making automobiles, explaining why it has so many motorcycle enthusiasts and, of course, many motorcycle accidents. If you get involved in a motorcycle accident and are not in the wrong, an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Grand Rapids, MI, can help file your case to get compensated. 

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Grand Rapids, MI

In 2019, there were about 3,000 motorcycle accidents in Michigan. Of these, 639 resulted in serious injuries, while 116 resulted in fatalities. Motorcycles, unlike cars, require more concentration and skills to operate. These requirements are essential because motorbikes are less visible and are smaller than motor vehicles. If you are riding a motorbike on the highway, you must be extra careful and attentive. The most common causes of motorcycle crashes include: 

Unsafe driving

Abrupt maneuvers, aggressiveness, and excessive speed can increase the chances of collisions on the road, whether it’s another motorbike or vehicle or the motorbike’s operator causing the crash. There are many cases where motorcycle operators try to maneuver their way out of traffic jams without caring about the other road users. This behavior has resulted in many accidents. 

Impaired Driving

Impaired driving refers to driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It can also happen due to a lack of adequate sleep. Most victims of impaired driving have caused severe accidents. You can also increase the chances of other road users hitting your motorcycle when riding while impaired. 

Road conditions

Motorcycles are more dangerous to ride on bad roads than cars. A huge bump or pothole can throw you in the air while riding your motorcycle at high speed. You must look for potholes and bumps when riding on an unfamiliar road. Do not drive at high speed on a road you’ve never used before. 

Weather

Bad weather accident
Photo by Nick Fox on Unsplash

Unfortunately, motorcycles don’t have as much traction as motor vehicles, explaining why they are highly likely to slide and fall on wet roads. Heavy rains and snow can make the road slippery. When the road is slippery, it also becomes difficult to stop a motorcycle, and this can result in a collision with other road users. That’s why it’s best not to ride your bike when the weather is bad. Use a car instead. 

Mechanical Problems

Although rare, mechanical problems are among the causes of motorcycle accidents. Abrupt gear shifts or brake failures sometimes cause these accidents. To avoid such an accident, ensure your motorbike is well serviced before hitting the road. 

Operator Error

Before you start riding a motorbike, you must be 100% sure you can control it, especially on a highway. It’s easy to cause an accident due to errors when riding a motorbike you aren’t familiar with. Operator errors are common with new riders who have not mastered the skills of riding motorcycles. But even as an experienced rider, you must know that motorcycles come in different designs and shapes. 

Distracted Driving

When on a motorbike, you must not allow yourself to get distracted by anything, whether by other road users, pedestrians, or something you are doing while riding. For example, some riders like to receive or make phone calls while on the road. You may also get attracted by something until you forget you are riding a motorcycle. 

Injuries Caused by Motorcycle Accidents

Unlike motor vehicles, accidents resulting from motorcycles tend to be very catastrophic, particularly for the riders and passengers. This is because, on a motorcycle, the passengers and the riders are exposed. This can result in injuries such as:

  • Loss of hearing or vision
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement
  • Severe scarring or burns
  • Crush injuries
  • Injury to Internal Organs
  • Amputations or severed limbs
  • Several broken bones
  • Paralysis resulting from spinal cord damage
  • Traumatic brain injury and concussion 

If you aren’t in the wrong, you can be compensated for any injury you suffer due to a motorcycle accident. Work with a reputable medical expert to determine the extent of your injury and the cost of treatments and therapies so you can receive the highest compensation possible. 

What Compensations Are Available for Motorcycle Accidents?

When you get involved in a motorcycle accident, one of the steps you should take is to consult your personal injury lawyer. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Grand Rapids, MI, can help you seek maximum compensation, not only for your injury but also for your emotional losses. 

You can claim damages, including past, present, and future medical expenses, suffering and pain, property damage, and loss of income. It’s up to your lawyer to determine the compensation you should claim. As expected, the lawyer will fight tooth and nail to ensure you get a better deal. 

To increase your chances of getting compensated, you should hire an attorney immediately after the accident. You should also involve your doctors, therapists, and all medical experts who attended to you. 

Your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the accident. The lawyer will work with accident reconstruction professionals and investigators to assemble evidence by evaluating what took place. Your attorney will also interview witnesses to make a strong case on damages and liability in your favor. 

How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Grand Rapids, MI

No amount of compensation can pay for the financial and emotional loss you suffer as a result of a motorcycle accident. However, getting compensated can go a long way in providing some consolation. It will also help you pay for your medical expenses and rebuild your life after the accident.

That’s why it’s best to choose the most experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. Your lawyer should be someone who empathizes with you and not someone who’s out to benefit from your suffering.

The lawyer should have a track record of winning cases and dealing with insurance companies. Above all, the attorney should be honest, trustworthy, and reputable.

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