Protecting Motorcyclists: The Risks They Face and How We Can Help
Motorcyclists face unique risks on the road because of their exposure and limited protection compared to drivers of cars and trucks. Even when wearing safety gear and helmets, bikers remain vulnerable to serious injuries and fatalities in accidents. In Louisiana, a 2017 report showed that 1,385 people were injured or killed in motorcycle crashes, many of whom were wearing helmets as required by law. However, helmets do not prevent all injuries, especially in high-impact collisions with larger vehicles, which can result in violent ejections and severe Injuries and trauma.
Statistics highlight the dangers faced by motorcyclists. In 2016, most motorcycle fatalities involved riders wearing helmets, illustrating that protective gear cannot eliminate the risk of death or serious injury. The physics of a collision between a motorcycle and a much heavier vehicle often results in severe injury, particularly in crashes involving sudden lane changes, turns, or other unexpected maneuvers.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents include distracted driving, speeding, alcohol impairment, and reckless behavior. Motorcyclists also face specific hazards such as being rear-ended, caught in unexpected left turns, or cut off by inattentive drivers. Lane-splitting, although illegal in Ponchatoula, and other risky maneuvers increase the likelihood of crashes. Because of these dangers, motorcyclists often need legal support to seek compensation after accidents caused by negligent drivers.
