Why Rear-End Accidents Are Particularly Dangerous for Motorcyclists

When a vehicle hits the back of another vehicle, causing a rear-end collision, the accident is often called a rear-ender. These types of accidents frequently happen at slow speeds, but they can also happen when one or both vehicles are going fast. Airbags and seat belts provide protection for passenger vehicle drivers and passengers in these types of accidents. Unfortunately, motorcyclists do not have external protection. Rear-end collisions involving motorcycles can be some of the most devastating accidents on the road, leading to severe injury and death.

When the motorcycle is the front vehicle and a passenger vehicle hits it from behind, the back of the motorcycle is often sent upward. The motorcyclist is thrown forward off of the motorcycle toward the ground. The force of the accident and the fall can cause serious injuries to the face, jaw, and teeth. Even when the motorcyclist is wearing a helmet, they may experience a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Motorcyclists often reflexively put their arms out to cushion the fall. The force of the fall can result in a shattered or broken hand and arm bones.

When a motorcyclist suddenly hits the back of a car, the sudden impact can throw the motorcyclist off of the motorcycle and into the car. Sometimes a motorcyclist bounces off of the car and lands on the ground. These types of incidents can cause multiple points of impact, resulting in multiple traumatic injuries for the motorcyclist. Neck and back injuries, broken bones, and spinal cord injuries are all common in these types of motorcycle accidents.

The injuries caused by rear-end motorcycle accidents can be severe and costly due to ongoing medical treatment; it is important to recognize who was at fault for the crash. The first step in obtaining compensation should be discussing your case with an attorney to investigate your case and gather evidence. Your attorney can help you identify who caused the motorcycle accident.

Under North Carolina law, when a driver's negligence results in a motorcycle accident, that driver is financially responsible or liable for expenses related to the victim's injuries. The majority of rear-end motorcycle accidents are caused by a driver who is distracted, intoxicated, or not paying attention to the vehicle in front of them. It only takes a few seconds for a rear-end motorcycle accident to occur. Some of the most common causes for these types of accidents include the following:

• Distracted driving
• Following too closely
• Failing to obey traffic rules
• Impaired driving
• Fatigued driving
• Aggressive driving
• Brake lights that do not work
• Braking suddenly for no reason
• Illegal lane changes

The steps you take after being involved in a motorcycle accident will hurt or help your future legal claim for compensation. If you are able to, call 911 and request an ambulance and for a police officer to come to the scene of the accident. The officer will write a report about the accident that you can use later in your claim. Do not admit fault to the officer. you will need to contact your insurance company and tell them that an accident has occurred. It is important that you do not admit fault to the at-fault driver's insurance company or provide a statement until you have spoken to an attorney.

Likewise, do not sign a settlement agreement from the insurance company until you have asked an attorney to review it. It can be tempting because you probably have expensive medical bills you need to pay. However, insurance companies are known for offering settlements that are too low for motorcycle accident victims. Your attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement agreement that includes all of your expenses.

When another driver's negligence or recklessness causes you serious injuries, you need an experienced North Carolina motorcycle accident attorney on your side. Rear-end accidents can cause devastating injuries. You may be wondering how you will pay your mounting medical bills, especially if you cannot return to work because of your injuries. The attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC have extensive experience obtaining compensation for motorcycle accident victims just like you. Contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation and learn more about your legal options.