Cochran Firm Wisconsin Legal Blog

Although the same rules of the road apply to motorcyclists and the drivers of passenger vehicles, the injuries sustained by bikers in car vs. motorcycle accidents are often more severe.

The obvious size and weight difference is one contributing factor for injuries, but motorcyclists also have less bodily protection and face a greater risk for ejection. While all motorcyclists are advised to wear helmets, and Wisconsin mandates that all riders under 18 wear a helmet, even bikers with helmets are vulnerable to severe injuries.

Injuries commonly suffered by bikers in collisions with cars include:

• Broken/fractured bones
• Cuts/lacerations
• Disfigurement
• Internal injuries
• Severed limbs
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries

The occupants of cars can certainly experience the same types of injuries, but motorcycle riders are at a much higher statistical risk for catastrophic and fatal injuries.

Like other types of traffic accidents, driver error is to blame in most car vs. motorcycle accidents. Though negligence by either driver can contribute to an accident, a majority of car and motorcycle collisions are the result of the car’s driver not being aware of the motorcycle’s presence.

Other common causes of car vs. motorcycle accidents include:

• Driving under the influence
• Failure to yield or stop
• Speeding
• Tailgating
• Unsafe lane changes or passing

If you were injured in a car and motorcycle accident and have questions about your legal options, please contact the Milwaukee personal injury attorneys at The Cochran Firm Wisconsin for a free consultation.