Motorcycle Accidents: What Happens if an Accident Leads to a Fatality?

There are many reasons for fatal motorcycle accidents every year in the U.S. Some of them happen because of the motorcycle rider themselves making an unsafe move that they never expect to lead to devastating consequences. In other cases, it is the fault of another party who was not abiding by the rules of the road. This can happen in cases where a motor vehicle driver was speeding, driving distracted, not heeding attention to other riders on the roadways, or driving too fast for dangerous road conditions. No matter the occasion, a fatality could change the lives of many parties involved. These accidents could lead to a wrongful death case, which you will bring when your loved one passes due to injuries caused by a motorcycle accident.

A Closer Look at Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycles, as a whole, are less stable and also less visible than vehicle counterparts on the roadways. Because motorcyclists are offered less protection from the elements, they sustain more deadly accidents in even the simplest situations, especially when they are not wearing a helmet or are thrown from the motorcycle. In 2015, the number of deaths of motorcyclists far exceeded the number of car drivers by nearly 29 times.

In 2015, other statistics were compiled that showed just how prevalent and awful these accidents can truly be. In 2015, there were approximately 4,976 motorcyclists killed in accidents involving motor vehicle drivers. This was an 8% increase from the year before. In all of 2015, there were about 88,000 motorcyclist injuries as well.

A Study in Fatal Accidents in 2015

A study done by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that fewer helmet laws actually lead to more deaths in states. Though many states require all riders to wear a helmet, some still do not. According to the NHTSA, however, if you wear a helmet you are 37% less likely to be involved in a fatal crash. Still, riders continue to go without helmets and risk their lives in accidents caused by other drivers.

What Damages Can Stem From a Wrongful Death Suit?

It is not uncommon to hear of dependents filing wrongful death cases when a motorcycle rider has been killed in an accident by another driver. Were you able to identify the party who is liable for the accident to your loved one? You may wonder what damages you are able to claim from this party in your time of need, especially when your loved one played an integral role in the lives of many, giving financial stability.

You may be able to ask for damages like loss of future income and future benefits that you would have otherwise received from your loved one. You may also receive damages related to loss of companionship and loss of the relationship and love that you shared with your loved one. Perhaps you need help covering funeral costs. Though damages will not replace the loss of your loved one, you may be able to move on with your life and receive a fresh start with compensation. At the Los Angeles Injury Group, we want to talk to you about your case as soon as possible. Call us for more information at 310-954-7248 and we will help you in your time of need when you have lost your loved one. You gaining compensation means everything to us, so act now.

Sources:

http://www.iihs.org/iihs/topics/t/motorcycles/fatalityfacts/motorcycles

https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812353

https://www.consumerreports.org/motorcycles-scooters/article-on-motorcycle-fatalities/