Even though and account for less than 1% of all miles traveled in the U.S., they still make up 14% of all traffic deaths. That’s actually a massive imbalance. To put it another way, if you ride a motorcycle, you’re exposed to far more danger on the road than people in cars, SUVs, or trucks.
Things are actually getting worse, too. Motorcycle fatalities went up by 8% from 2020 to 2021. Over a ten-year stretch, there’s been an increase in motorcycle deaths.
In 2021 alone, 5,932 people died in motorcycle accidents. At the same time, nonfatal injuries increased, meaning more people are surviving crashes, but often with serious, life-altering injuries. The type of injuries you can only get full and comprehensive compensation for if you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer from Emroch & Kilduff.
The Long-Term Effects of Motorcycle Accidents
The consequences of a motorcycle accident are not only immediate but can also echo through a person’s entire life. Here are a few of its long-term effects:
Physical effects
Motorcycle accidents can cause serious injuries such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and broken bones. These kinds of injuries often lead to long-term pain, sometimes requiring lifelong treatment or rehabilitation.
Spinal injuries, for example, can lead to paralysis, while TBIs may cause memory loss or difficulty concentrating. Victims may also suffer from chronic pain that requires regular medical treatment or pain management therapies.
Injuries like fractures or severe road rash can leave permanent scarring, affecting mobility and comfort for the rest of a person’s life.
Emotional effects
The emotional toll of a motorcycle crash can be just as serious as the physical injuries. Victims of these accidents may develop mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
These conditions can interfere with their ability to interact with others, leading to social isolation or withdrawal. For many riders, the trauma of the crash can make it impossible for them to ride again, which might add to their emotional burden.
Financial effects
Dealing with the financial consequences of a motorcycle crash can feel overwhelming. The costs of treating severe injuries often run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Hospital bills, long-term care, and physical rehabilitation can put a heavy financial strain on the victim and their family.
If the accident leads to a permanent disability, it may prevent the person from working or reduce their ability to earn a living. Victims may also need to modify their homes to accommodate their disabilities, adding another layer of financial strain.
How a Motorcycle Accident Claim Can Help
In light of these serious long-term consequences, it’s critical to pursue a motorcycle accident claim. While no amount of money can take away the pain or reverse the damage, compensation can help victims cover the costs associated with their injuries, both now and in the future.
For example, compensation can help with:
- Ongoing medical care
- Diminished earning potential
- Loss of quality of life
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
Getting help from a skilled lawyer is critical in these situations. They can ensure that you are fairly compensated for not only the immediate effects of the accident but also for the long-term consequences. This includes things that you may not even realize will affect your life down the road.
