Northridge Motorcycle Accident Brain Injury Lawyers
Motorcycle Accident Brain Injury
Motorcycle accident brain injury victims often get the short end of the stick when it comes to treatment and public sympathy.
When a motorcycle collides with a larger vehicle–be it a car, 18-wheeler—the bike often suffers more damage. A motorcycle weighing 500 pounds traveling at 60 miles an hour will have a quarter of the momentum of a 2-ton sedan driving at just 30 miles per hour. The more momentum you have in a crash between two vehicles, the easier it is to avoid damage and injury (in general). Thus, unfortunately, motorcyclists often find themselves at a distinct disadvantage.
A motorcycle brain injury can happen whether or not you are wearing a helmet.
Of course, it's safer to bike while wearing a helmet. But just because you wear a helmet doesn't guarantee that you will be protected against brain damage.
What factors can influence the severity and likelihood of brain damage?
- Force of impact between the motorcyclist and the object that ultimately stops him or her
- Angle of impact
- Effectiveness of any safety apparatus (e.g. helmet, gloves, etc)
- Physical health and general constitution of the rider
- Whether additional injuries compound the brain damage
What can you do to minimize your risk of motorcycle brain injury?
- Wear a helmet that has been safety tested and approved for your kind of riding.
- Get your bike regularly inspected to make sure that the critical system are up to spec, such as tires, brakes, and drive train, and that other components are functioning properly.
- Avoid driving during particularly dangerous times of day and night. New Year's Eve, Super Bowl Sunday, 4th of July, and late night/early morning on Fridays and Saturdays are particularly bad times to be out on the road.
- Pay attention to your driving. Any time you distract yourself – loud music, speaking on a phone or to a passenger, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol -- you increase your risk for an accident.
- Think About the Color of your bike. Studies show that red bikes and cars get into more accidents than do bikes and cars of other colors.
- Get licensed and trained. Good coaching can leave you better prepared to encounter chaotic events on the road.
- Don't drive if you are under age or if you don't have a license.
- Keep up to speed on any developments in the arena of motorcycle safety.
If you or a loved one has suffered traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle accident, the lawyers here at the Mandell Law Firm can provide savvy and effective guidance. We are experienced in catastrophic brain injury cases in San Fernando Valley, and we can provide a free, confidential, compassionate consultation about your motorcycle accident. Contact us today at 818-886-6600.