California is no stranger when it comes to motorcycle accidents. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents result in far more injuries and fatalities than car accidents by several times. Speeding in California is the most common action that leads to motorcycle accidents. However, broadside collisions are the most common type of motorcycle accident, followed by overturning accidents and striking objects.
Motorcycle accident victims are entitled to greater compensation for their injuries and medical care since their injuries are almost always more severe than other traffic participants. If you or someone you know suffered a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, contact a
motorcycle accident lawyer to file a personal injury claim and receive the compensation that you are entitled to. Here is what you should know about California’s most common type of motorcycle accident!
Why Broadside Collisions Occur So Often
A broadside collision is as devastating as a head-on collision, and it is also known as a t-bone or side-impact collision. It occurs when a motorcyclist is struck from their side by a distracted automobile driver who changes lanes. According to the University of California, Berkeley, broadside collisions represent about 25.1% of all crash types in motorcycle accidents, while overturn accidents represent 21%.
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Broadside collisions most commonly occur in intersections when an automobile is traveling perpendicular to a motorcyclist, striking them in the side. Distracted drivers aren’t the only reason why this type of motorcycle accident occurs, but rather a failure to yield the right of way at intersections.
This often occurs because drivers don’t check the road long enough but merely take a small glance. Because of this, the motorcycle might go unnoticed, and a broadside collision could occur. Drunk driving is also a common cause of broadside collisions since drivers no longer have the same reflexes while driving or have a decreased sense of awareness. This makes motorcyclists even less visible to them and prone to become traffic collision victims.
Another reason why broadside collisions are so common is due to poor visibility. Since motorcycle vehicles aren’t as big as cars, they are harder to see. To avoid broadside collisions, motorcyclists can take preventive measures such as wearing reflective clothing and enhancing their visibility on the road.
Broadside Collision Injuries
Broadside collisions can result in severe injuries or fatalities. The lower body and the limbs are the most susceptible to injuries during this type of accident. For example, bone fractures in either the legs or hips are almost always present, but broken or dislocated knees, ankles, and feet are also very common.
Most of these injuries require surgery and extensive physical therapy so that the victims can regain their mobility. Yet, spinal cord injuries are also very likely to occur as well. These types of injuries in broadside collisions can result even in paralysis. The lower back or lumbar region is very sensitive, and victims can also experience nerve pain and limited mobility for a long period. The lower internal organs, including the intestines, urinary systems, and reproductive organs, are also susceptible to injury in this type of collision.
Depending on the force of the impact, motorcyclists can also suffer traumatic brain injuries and other severe wounds. These injuries aren’t easy or cheap to heal and treat. Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer to receive the compensation you are entitled to and treat your injuries.
