Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience that allows to fully experience the freedom of the open road. Still, there are risks involved. Riders face unique challenges when navigating the streets of Birmingham. Further, they are not afforded the same protections as those driving standard cars. Accordingly, when motorcyclists are struck by negligent drivers, they can suffer serious harm.
Thankfully, victims of motorcycle accidents can pursue payment for the injuries they incurred. Guidance and support from our legal team can be highly valuable to injured riders when fighting for financial compensation.
If you were hurt as the result of a motorcycle accident in Birmingham, get help from our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Howe Law by calling (844) 876-4357.
Common Locations Where Motorcycle Accidents Occur in Birmingham, AL
Motorcycle accidents are often unexpected and unavoidable. Still, there are certain locations where they happen more frequently. It may benefit you to take extra caution when riding through any of the following areas:
Intersections
A high number of motorcycle accidents happen at intersections. These crashes often occur because careless drivers disobey traffic signals and fail to yield the right-of-way. In many cases, riders suffer head-on collisions that lead to devastating injuries.
Fortunately, several forms of evidence can be utilized to prove that another driver is at fault for your intersection crash. Assistance from our motorcycle accident lawyers can be very helpful when investigating your collision and collecting the evidence needed to support your potential case.
Areas with High Traffic Congestion
Areas with high traffic congestion are also common locations where motorcycle accidents happen in Birmingham. In particular, major thoroughfares like Interstate 20 and Interstate 65 are hotspots for motorcycle accidents. The high volume of vehicles, frequent lane changes, and varying speeds can make these areas especially dangerous for riders.
Curves and Bends
Many scenic roads surround Birmingham. These roads often attract motorcycle riders who want to enjoy a day on the open road. However, such roads often include winding curves and sharp bends that pose challenges for some motorists. When negligent drivers begin to stray outside of their lanes, catastrophic collisions can occur with motorcyclists in the opposite lane of travel.
Urban Areas
The densely populated urban areas of Birmingham, such as downtown streets and residential neighborhoods, can also be very hazardous for motorcyclists. Heavy traffic, limited visibility, and unpredictable pedestrian traffic can all contribute to a higher risk of crashes. Thankfully, victims of such accidents may be entitled to payment for the harm they sustained.
Construction Zones
Finally, construction zones are also a common area where motorcycle accidents happen. Birmingham’s infrastructure is constantly expanding, leading to more construction zones across the city. These areas can present hazardous conditions for motorcyclists, including uneven surfaces, debris, and sudden lane shifts.
Common Injuries Caused by Motorcycle Accidents in Birmingham, AL
Motorcycle crashes often lead to serious injuries. There are several types of harm that victims can sustain. The following are all examples of common injuries caused by motorcycle accidents in Birmingham:
Head Injuries
Head injuries are among the most serious and common injuries sustained by victims of motorcycle accidents. Traumatic brain injuries like concussions and intracranial hematomas can lead to a wide range of debilitating symptoms. Additionally, skull fractures and facial injuries can occur, especially if a rider is not wearing a helmet or if the impact is especially forceful.
Road Rash
Road rash is another common type of harm related to motorcycle accidents. When a victim slides or skids along the surface of the road during their crash, they can suffer abrasions and lacerations on their skin. This type of injury is commonly referred to as “road rash.” Road rash can range from mild to severe, with most victims requiring costly medical treatment.
Broken Bones
Victims of motorcycle accidents also regularly suffer broken bones. These injuries can happen when riders are struck by other vehicles or when they make impact with the ground. Those who incur broken bones can experience debilitating pain. Further, in serious cases, victims with broken bones may require surgical treatment.
During their accidents, many motorcyclists instinctively extend their arms to brace for impacts. Accordingly, collarbone fractures, arm fractures, wrist fractures, and leg fractures are particularly common.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Additionally, many motorcycle accidents produce spinal cord injuries. Multiple different types of spinal cord injuries can occur. For instance, riders may sustain herniated discs, vertebral fractures, or spinal stenosis. Like broken bones, these injuries can also produce excruciating pain.
Furthermore, some victims with spinal cord injuries may experience temporary or permanent paralysis. In such cases, plaintiffs may be entitled to substantial compensation for their diminished quality of life.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are another common type of harm caused by motorcycle accidents. These injuries typically occur in the form of internal bleeding or organ damage.
Those who suffer internal injuries can develop very harmful symptoms. However, such injuries may not become painful until days after an accident. If you suspect that you may have incurred internal injuries as the result of your motorcycle accident, then you should see a doctor as soon as you can.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries are a highly common type of injury suffered by motorcycle accident victims. These injuries usually involve damaged tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Such injuries can affect nearly any area of the body and may lead to severe immobility. Many riders who incur soft tissue injuries are prevented from returning to work until their injuries heal. Fortunately, in such cases, plaintiffs may be entitled to payment for the lost wages they incurred.
Psychological Trauma
Finally, motorcycle accidents can cause serious psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and various other mental health conditions. Proving the damages caused by these conditions can be a complicated process. Guidance from our team can be valuable to plaintiffs in motorcycle accident cases when fighting for compensation related to their psychological trauma.
If You Suffered a Motorcycle Accident in Birmingham, Call Our Attorneys for Help
Get support from our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers at Howe Law by calling (844) 876-4357 today.
