Car and Motorcycle Accidents

    TAMPA, FL, October 30, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Motorcyclists must follow the same rules of the road as other drivers, but in the event of a car vs. motorcycle accident, the injuries suffered by bikers are typically more severe.

In addition to the obvious size and weight difference between the two vehicles, motorcyclists are at greater risk for ejection and have less bodily protection.

Injuries in Car vs. Motorcycle Accidents

Although motorcyclists are advised to wear helmets, laws regarding helmet use vary from state to state. Even when wearing helmets, bikers are vulnerable to injuries that require long-term or permanent medical care.

Common injuries suffered by motorcycle riders in accidents with cars include:

- Broken bones
- Cuts and lacerations
- Disfigurement
- Head, back and neck injuries
- Internal injuries
- Severed limbs
- Spinal cord injury
- Traumatic brain injury

Of course, car occupants can suffer injuries in accidents involving motorcycles as well, but bikers are at a statistically higher risk for those injuries to be catastrophic.

Causes of Car vs. Motorcycle Accidents

Driver error is a contributing factor of most traffic collisions, and it is also true in cases involving cars and motorcycles. While a significant number of car vs. motorcycle accidents are the result of a car driver not noticing the presence of a motorcycle, driver negligence on either side can contribute to an accident.

Other frequent causes of car and motorcycle accidents are:

- Driving under the influence
- Failure to stop
- Failure to yield
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Unsafe lane changes/passing

Factors such as weather, road conditions, inadequate signage and wildlife can also contribute to accidents.

What to do After a Car vs. Motorcycle Accident

If you've been involved in a collision between a car and a motorcycle, the following steps can help ensure you have the foundation for a personal injury claim should you be injured:

- Notify the authorities and request medical attention
- Accept a medical evaluation, even if you do not believe you are injured
- Notify your insurance company
- Provide accurate, honest information to police and your insurance provider
- Do not admit fault for the accident
- Do not provide statements to the insurance providers of other drivers
- Contact a personal injury attorney with experience in car vs. motorcycle accidents

A qualified accident attorney can help you objectively evaluate a potential claim and, if necessary, guide you through the legal process to help you recover the financial compensation you need and deserve.

If you live in the Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota or Gainesville, Florida, areas and would like to learn more about your legal options following a car vs. motorcycle accident, please visit the website of the accomplished personal injury attorneys at Luhrsen Law Group at http://www.luhrsen.com.

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