Common Injuries Sustained in Motorcycle Accidents in NC

The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) estimates that there have been 5,932 fatal motorcycle accidents in the United States in 2021. Another 82,528 riders have sustained non-fatal injuries, many of them due to speeding and drunk driving. Our motorcycle lawyers review the most common types of motorcycle accident injuries in North Carolina and explain your options for recovering compensation after an accident.

What Are Some of the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in North Carolina?

According to the NHTSA, alcohol use, speeding, and riding without a valid motorcycle license are among the leading causes of severe and fatal accidents nationwide. The agency estimates that as many as 47% of all fatal motorcycle accidents involve the use of alcohol.

In addition, speeding has been identified as a common accident cause among younger motorcycle operators, and it is not uncommon for intoxicated riders to also engage in speeding and unsafe operation of their motorcycle. Finally, the lack of proper licensing and training to operate a motorcycle is also a common cause of serious accidents. Our motorcycle injury attorneys in North Carolina can help those struggling with these common injuries associated with motorcycle accidents.

What Are NC’s Most Frequent Non-fatal Motorcycle Accident Injuries?

Motorcyclists in North Carolina and all across the country are more vulnerable to serious and often fatal injuries due to the nature of their vehicles. Unlike a passenger vehicle with various safety features, such as seatbelts and airbags, a motorcycle offers little to no protection during a collision.

Motorcyclists are most likely to suffer injuries to the chest, abdominal trauma (such as rib fractures leading to internal organ injuries), and fractures to major limb bones and pelvic bones. A recent study of injury patterns among hospitalized motorcyclists reports that the most common body region of injury was the rider’s lower extremities, followed by upper extremities. Other frequent injuries were observed in the spine, thorax, face, and neck. Spine injuries were determined to be more common among younger riders (under 40 years old). For any non-fatal injuries, legal representatives for motorcycle accidents in NC can discuss your case with you to determine whether your non-fatal two-wheel accident potentially entitles you to compensation.

Are Helmets Mandatory for Riders in NC?

North Carolina has a universal helmet law that requires all riders to wear a DOT-approved helmet while operating a motorcycle. The law also applies to passengers of all ages. It is estimated that over 100 lives are saved in North Carolina each year due to the proper use of helmets.

What Should You Do if You Were Hurt in a Motorbike Accident?

If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident, contact the attorneys at Brent Adams & Associates to discuss your case. Call us at (910) 249-6891 for a free consultation.