Common St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle safety is one of the most common topics when talking about motorcycles. The popularity of motorcycles has risen almost every year since the 1970’s, when street-legal bikes came on the scene. Since that time, motorcycle accidents, injuries, and fatalities have become a way of life. Despite the known dangers, riders take to the streets daily seeking the unparalleled adrenaline rush.

One large component impacting the safety of motorcycle riders is the use of a helmet. Whether you are for or against helmet laws, it is undeniable helmets prevent head injuries. Helmet laws in 19 states require motorcycle operators and passengers to wear helmets when riding. At least 28 states have enacted some variety of a “partial” helmet requirement for certain operators. As of May 2016, Illinois, Iowa and New Hampshire are the only states which have no helmet requirements for rider or passengers.

The National Center for Statistics & Analysis estimates helmet usage decreases the likelihood of death in a motorcycle accident by about 37%. A few interesting facts related to motorcycle safety include:

• Approximately 25% of riders involved in motorcycle accident fatalities do not have a current motorcycle license;
• Nearly 1/3 of motorcycle accident fatalities involved alcohol impairment in excess of the legal limit; and
• Roughly 1/3 of motorcycle accident fatalities involved operation in excess of speed limit.

Helmets are required for operation of a motorcycle in Missouri. Even with the protection of a helmet, the potential for injury is still great in an accident. The types of injuries commonly suffered in motorcycle accidents are:

1. Injuries of the lower extremities:

• Legs
• Pelvis
• Knee
• Thigh
• Ankle
• Foot
• Hip

2. Head injuries:
• Brain Injury
• Concussion
• Skull fracture

3. Mid section injuries:
• Ribs
• Sternum
• Lungs

4. Upper extremities:

• Clavicle (collar bone)
• Humerus (upper arm)
• Radius and Ulna (forearm)
• Scapula (shoulder)
• Metacarpals (hand)
• Carpals (wrist)

The risk of serious injury is high when involved in a motorcycle accident. If you or a loved are involved in a motorcycle crash, it’s important to speak with a personal injury lawyer specializing in motorcycle accident injuries. Lost wages and medical bills can add up quickly. The motorcycle accident lawyers at Page Law have recovered millions of dollars for motorcycle accident victims. Call Page Law today for a free case evaluation. We can be reached at 1-800-CAR-CRASH (800) 227-2727 or by email at john@ssdev.ddns.net. We are attorneys on YOUR side, ready to immediately pursue the needed compensation to put your life back in order.