Motorcycle riders rarely get the respect they deserve on the road. This can create very serious risks. People may not see a motorcycle rider until it is too late. Even when they do see a motorcycle, they may inadequately assess what is a safe operating distance to keep between the vehicles. This can lead to motorcyclists being run off the road or having cars or trucks pull out in front of them when it is too late to avoid a collision.
If you or someone you love is suffering serious injuries after a motorcycle accident in Clarksville, TN, turn to the team at Pete Olson Injury Attorneys. Our Clarksville motorcycle accident attorney can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Motorcycle Accidents by the Numbers
- 4,985 motorcyclists died in roadway crashes in the United States in 2018 alone.
- Motorcyclists are roughly 28 times more likely than people in passenger vehicles to die in a crash.
- The proportion of fatally-injured motorcyclists age 50 and older has dramatically increased over time, jumping from 3% of all rider deaths in 1978 to 37% in 2018.
- Most motorcycle-related fatalities occur on weekends after 6 pm.
Do You Have to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet in Tennessee?
In Tennessee both the rider and passenger are required to wear a motorcycle helmet that meets federal DOT requirements while riding. There are some exceptions where a rider doesn’t have to wear a helmet, but they are situational.
Aside from it being required by law in Tennessee, wearing a motorcycle helmet is a good idea. Helmets will reduce the risk of a head injury like a concussion or a traumatic brain injury. When you’re on a motorcycle, you’re much more vulnerable to being injured if you get into an accident compared to people in a vehicle. People in vehicles have a lot more protection around them, whereas someone on a motorcycle only has the gear they’re wearing to protect them. A helmet will also protect you from debris like rocks, dust, or other things kicked up from vehicles.
Catastrophic Injuries Are Common in Motorcycle Accidents
Without the safety of having two tons of car or truck wrapped around them, motorcycle riders are exposed to the full force of impacts with other vehicles, trees, light posts, and the road.
That exposure can lead to incredibly severe injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries (paraplegia, quadriplegia, partial paralysis)
- Neck and back injuries
- Amputations
- Broken bones
- Road rash
Recovering from your injuries after a Clarksville motorcycle accident can be a long and painful process that will place a difficult financial burden on you and your family. Medical bills and lost wages can create financial uncertainty for even the most prudent households.
You deserve to be fully compensated for all your losses. At Pete Olson Injury Attorneys, we understand how to build highly effective cases that can secure the compensation you are seeking.
A Track Record of Success
At Pete Olson Injury Attorneys, our firm brings decades of experience and a record of success for each client. Our motorcycle accident attorney in Clarksville has successfully resolved thousands of cases and obtained multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements for our clients. Attorney Pete Olson understands the difficulties people face after serious accidents, and he is committed to helping people get through those tough times.
Motorcycle Accidents FAQ
Q. What are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents?
Statistically, some of the most common causes of motorcycle crashes are:
- Excessive speed (either of the motorcyclist or another motorist)
- Failure to properly check for motorcyclists when changing lanes
- Drunk driving
- Failure of a motorist to stop in time in stop and go traffic
- Failure to notice motorcyclists who are lane-splitting
- Failing to yield to the motorcyclist in an intersection where they have right-of-way
Q. How can you prevent motorcycle accidents?
As a motorcyclist, there are certain steps you can take to help prevent being in an accident:
- Wear appropriate safety gear including a helmet, reflective or bright-colored gear, long sleeves or pants, etc.
- Do your best to always be seen by other motorists; honk if you aren't sure a motorist sees you and keep your headlights on during both the day and evening.
- Stay alert and always anticipate that other motorists may not be paying attention; be prepared for sudden stops, swerving drivers, and other road hazards
More often than not, motorcycle accidents are the fault of the other driver. If you have been injured as a result of another motorist's negligence, you deserve compensation. Call today for the representation you need.