North Carolina Law Updates
Motorcycle accidents are often different than car accidents, at least from the perspective of a personal injury lawyer’s role in seeking a full and fair recovery for damages sustained in the wreck. 
There are several reasons for this; motorcycles lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle. The physics of trauma also differ, as the motorcyclist bears the brunt of the forces created in a wreck.
Motorcycles also have longer stopping distances, are more difficult for other motorists to see, and do not enjoy the protections afforded by seatbelts and airbags.
This means that motorcyclists are more likely to suffer serious injuries in a crash.
Indeed, according to the NHTSA – National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are nearly 29 times more likely than passengers in a car to die in a wreck per vehicle miles traveled.
In this blog post, we will discuss some of the differences between motorcycle accidents and car accidents, as well as the injuries that are common to both types of crashes.
How do motorcycle accidents differ from car accidents?
First and foremost, motorcyclists are more likely to suffer serious injuries and substantial trauma as a result of a crash.
No such thing as an “Accident”
Another difference is that car accidents are often caused by driver error, while a motorcycle accident can be caused by both driver error and road hazards.
Finally, insurance companies often treat motorcycle accidents differently than car accidents, which can make it more difficult to recover damages. 
That’s true for juries as well.
It’s common in society to assume motorcycle crashes are, more often than not, caused by the driver of the motorcycle.
Biases associated with other types of motor vehicle accidents, such as car accidents and 18-wheeler wrecks, tend to be less problematic in that regard.
An experienced motorcycle accident attorney will want to immediately address biases and assumptions. Statistics indicate both motorcycle accidents and bicycle accidents are often caused by motorists in cars and trucks – Danny Glover, OBX Motorcycle Accidents Lawyer
What are some common injuries in motorcycle accidents?
Some of the most common injuries in motorcycle accidents include road rash, fractures, and head injuries.
One would be remiss in failing to note, that wrongful death claims involving the tragic and untimely loss of motorcycle riders are not unusual.
If you’re looking for a motorcycle accident lawyer, we think it’s important to establish an attorney-client relationship with 
a lawyer who understands how motorcycle and car accidents are handled throughout the claims process as well as in court.
OBX Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Danny Glover offers a free legal consultation.
He possesses substantial experience handling different types of personal injury claims, including those involving motorcycles and bicycles.
Call Danny NOW to schedule your free case review: 252-299-5300
What is Road Rash?
Road rash is a condition that occurs when the skin rubs against the pavement.
It’s a good idea to weather protective clothing and footwear when riding a motorcycle, as road rash can lead to serious infection.
What are fractures?
A fracture is a break in the bone.
Fractures are common in motorcycle accidents, as the force of the impact can cause the bone to snap.
Motorcycle riders often suffer from fractures of the hands, wrists, arms, feet, ankles, and legs.
Motorcycle accidents are different in that the motorcyclist’s body bears the brunt of force at impact in a motorcycle crash.
Car drivers wear seatbelts. Motorcyclists don’t.
What are head injuries?
Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries, are also common in motorcycle accidents. 
This is due to the fact that motorcyclists are not protected by a car’s frame and they can be thrown from their bikes during a crash.
What is a TBI – Traumatic Brain Injury?
A TBI is a type of head injury that can occur when the brain is shaken or jarred.
TBIs can range from mild to severe, and they can have a number of long-term effects.
If you or someone you love has been involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to seek legal assistance
Are there more Wrongful Death claims in motorcycle accident cases?
Yes, generally speaking, wrongful death claims tend to be more common in motorcycle accident cases.
This is because the injuries suffered in motorcycle accidents are often more severe than those suffered in a car accident.
If you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses.
Are hand and leg injuries common in motorcycle wrecks?
Yes, hand and leg injuries are common in motorcycle wrecks. This is because motorcycle riders often use their hands and legs to brace themselves during a fall. 
If you have suffered a hand or leg injury in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
How can an experienced personal injury lawyer help?
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident on the Outer Banks, we believe it’s a good idea to seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury lawyer.
A lawyer can help you understand your rights and options.
We can also help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
What are some common injuries in car accidents?
While there are many different types of car accidents, some of the most common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, and head injuries.
What is whiplash?
Whiplash is a type of neck injury that can occur when the head is suddenly jerked forward or backward.
Whiplash can cause a great deal of pain and suffering, and it often requires extensive medical treatment.
What does “Compound Fracture” mean?
Broken bones are another common injury in car accidents.
The force of the impact can cause the bone to break or fracture.
A Compound Fracture is a break in the bone that protrudes through the skin.
Compound fractures can be very painful and they often require surgery to heal properly.
Why are head injuries so serious?
Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries, are also common in both car accidents and motorcycle 
accidents
This is because the head can be thrown around violently during a crash, and it can strike the steering wheel, dashboard, or window.
One reason head injuries are serious is that they can lead to long-term problems such as memory loss, problems with balance, and difficulty concentrating.
Are Property Damage claims allowed in motorcycle accidents?
If you have suffered damage to your motorcycle as a result of a car accident, you may be able to make a Property Damage claim.
This type of claim allows you to seek compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement of your motorcycle.
To be clear, in impacts between motorcycles and other vehicles, motorcycle accident victims often experience a total loss of the value of the motorcycle.
It doesn’t take much to “total” a motorcycle.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident on the Outer Banks, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
We will review your case and help you understand your rights and options.
You may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What are Economic Damages?
Economic damages are a type of compensation that is available in personal injury cases.
They are intended to reimburse you for your economic losses, such as lost wages and medical expenses.
What are Noneconomic Damages?
Noneconomic damages are a type of compensation that may be available in motor vehicle accidents, including motorcycle accidents.
They are intended to reimburse you for your noneconomic losses, such as pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional distress.
What does “Pain and Suffering” mean?
“Pain and Suffering” are a type of damages that may be available in personal injury cases.
It is defined as the physical and mental anguish that you suffer as a result of your injuries.
Pain and suffering can include things like anxiety, depression, insomnia, and loss of enjoyment of life.
What Are Punitive Damages?
Punitive damages in North Carolina are a type of compensation that is available in some personal injury cases.
They are intended to punish the wrongdoer for their actions.
Punitive damages are not available in every case, and they are generally only awarded if the defendant’s actions were particularly egregious.
Are Punitive Damages awarded against a Drunk Driver?
Yes, punitive damages may be awarded against a drunk driver.
This is because driving while impaired (DUI / DWI) is a serious crime, and it puts other people’s lives at risk.
Punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from engaging in similar behavior.
Punitive damages are intended to get a form of economic punishment. They are more common in wrecks caused by intentional conduct, such as Drunk Driving and Road Rage – Danny Glover, OBX Motorcycle Accidents Lawyer
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident on the Outer Banks, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule a free consultation.