The number of Nevada motorcycle accident fatalities has spiked once again and aggressive driving, distractions, and busier roadways may be to blame. When bikers are involved in accidents caused by dangerous roadway conditions, negligent drivers, or defective vehicle designs, they may be entitled to compensation.
What’s Causing the Increase in Motorcycle Accident Fatalities?
Motorcycle riding can be an exhilarating and efficient way to commute around Henderson, offering riders lower fuel costs and a more exciting commute. Motorcycle riding comes with risks, however, and the degree of risk may in fact be rising.
In recent years, motorcycle accident fatalities have varied dramatically. Between 2015 and 2016, Clark County saw an increase of 53 percent in motorcycle fatalities, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. In 2017, Nevada saw a slight decline in the number of bikers killed. That year, 54 motorcyclists lost their lives and another 218 were seriously injured. Despite new regulations, advanced safety gear, and programs to raise awareness, the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety reports that motorcycle deaths are up 8% from last year.
Safety researchers have suggested a number of factors that may be contributing to the growth in motorcycle fatalities. Improvements in the economy have resulted in more people spending time on the road. Poor road design and congestion in Las Vegas and Henderson often lead to aggressive drivers. Increased cell phone use has also contributed to a surge in distracted driving.
Why Are Motorcyclists’ Injuries More Severe?
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to injuries in an accident. Without the protection of an enclosed passenger compartment, airbags, and bumpers, bikers don’t stand a chance against larger passenger vehicles. When motorcyclists don’t wear helmets and other protective gear, their risk of experiencing catastrophic injuries like spinal cord damage and traumatic brain injury increases significantly.
How Easy is it To Obtain Compensation After a Motorcycle Crash?
There is an unfair bias against motorcyclists that can make getting compensation after a motorcycle accident difficult, even when the negligence of another driver is obvious. It is not uncommon for insurance companies to attempt to place blame on the injured biker to avoid paying a claim. They will often deny the claim outright or offer victims much less than what they should receive for their losses.
When unscrupulous tactics stand in between a victim and his or her settlement, injury lawyers use photos and videos of the crash, witness statements, and even accident reconstructionists to reveal the truth. Without an experienced motorcycle accident attorney, however, victims often shoulder the cost of medical treatment, lost wages, and other losses.