Arlington Heights, IL Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Of the different types of motor vehicle collisions that can occur, motorcycle accidents are among the most likely to lead to serious injuries. Motorcycle riders have little physical protection in the event of a crash, and even a minor impact can result in devastating injuries or permanent disabilities. In these cases, the path to recovery can be long, painful, and financially overwhelming.

Many motorcycle crashes are caused by negligent drivers who fail to see motorcycles or respect the rights of motorcyclists. At Schwartz Injury Law, our attorneys work to ensure that drivers who have injured motorcyclists will be held responsible for the harm they have inflicted. We fight to secure compensation that will address the injuries and financial losses that a motorcyclist has experienced. Through our legal counsel, we provide the support our clients need so that they can focus on healing.

Why Motorcycle Accidents Often Result in Serious Injuries

Unlike drivers and passengers in enclosed vehicles, motorcyclists do not benefit from seat belts, airbags, or structural protections. When a crash occurs, a rider may be thrown from their bike. Because of this, they may be injured in the initial impact, and then they may suffer additional injuries when they strike other vehicles, the road surface, or surrounding objects. Because of these issues, motorcycle accidents have a higher likelihood of causing catastrophic injuries or wrongful death.

Common injuries suffered by motorcyclists include:

• Fractures and Crush Injuries: Multiple bones throughout the body may be broken in a collision. The damage may be especially serious if a motorcyclist is crushed between two vehicles or if they are trapped under a vehicle. These injuries may be severe enough to lead to the amputation of arms, legs, or other body parts.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The direct impact with a vehicle can cause a great deal of damage to a motorcyclist's back and spine, and additional injuries may occur due to the impact with the ground. When the spinal cord is damaged, a motorcyclist may experience quadraplegia, paraplegia, or other forms of paralysis.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even with the protection of a helmet, a motorcyclist may suffer head trauma in a collision, which can lead to issues such as loss of consciousness, loss of memory, balance and coordination problems, cognitive disabilities, emotional disorders, or seizures.
• Road Rash: The impact with the pavement can cause deep cuts and abrasions that may carry the potential for infections. Skin grafts may be needed, and long-term or permanent scarring may occur.

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment. Hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing physical therapy and rehabilitation may be needed. Serious injuries may prevent a victim from returning to work or engaging in everyday activities.