Motorcycle riders and passengers are at the greatest risk for serious or fatal injury when involved in an accident. This makes it important to understand all legal options before accepting a settlement from an insurance company. Insurance companies are infamous for offering inadequate settlements. With an attorney on your side, you may be able to seek compensation well beyond these initial offers.
Head and brain injuries are the most common types sustained in motorcycle accidents. These can permanently alter a person’s abilities, emotional functioning, and cognition. They can also result in death. In fact, 34% of all traumatic deaths in the United States are head injury-related.
All riders in Tennessee must wear a motorcycle helmet by law. Motorcycle helmets have been shown to reduce the risk of head injury in an accident by nearly 40%.
Motorcycle Accident Injuries
In addition to head injuries, harm sustained by motorcyclists in accidents often includes:
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Broken and Pulverized Bones
- Lacerations and Disfigurement
- Road Rash and Burns
- Internal Organ Damage
The only thing between a motorcyclist and the road is whatever safety equipment is worn by the rider. The better prepared you are, the higher your chances of surviving an accident.
In the state of Tennessee, all motorcyclists are required to have eye protection. Motorcycles must also have working signals and lights, a daytime running headlamp, and proper seating for all riders. Rearview mirrors are required on all motorcycles as well.
While not required, safety equipment that can help prevent serious or fatal injury in a motorcycle accident includes:
- Leather Boots
- Jeans and Leather Chaps
- Leather Gloves and Jacket
- Helmet and Goggles
Typically referred to simply as “leathers,” there are several casual options that provide additional protection from the road when involved in an accident. Specially designed suits, jackets, and pants intended to cushion common impact points can also be found at most motorcycle shops.
Do You Need Help?
Even the safest motorcyclists cannot always avoid an accident. If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed while riding in Chattanooga or a nearby area of Tennessee, please call Herbert Thornbury, Attorney at Law at 423-265-1100 for a free consultation.
