Injuries in Alaska Motorcycle Accidents
In Alaska, motorcycle accidents are often severe. It’s not uncommon for an accident lawyer to help you file a claim, but what common injuries and legal statutes can you expect? This article explores those questions.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
You file a personal injury claim, providing evidence of negligence, medical records, and proof of financial loss to be compensated. A consultation with an accident law office will help you get through the process more quickly so your claim meets legal deadlines and presents your case well. Medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering can be recovered by victims.
The Prevalence of Motorcycle Accidents
Alaska has a growing concern for motorcycle accidents, which cause a large number of traffic-related fatalities and injuries. Motorcycles are particularly vulnerable to the unique challenges of Alaska’s rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and high moose population.
Data from the Alaska Highway Safety Office shows that motorists account for a disproportionate number of severe crash victims, often due to less protection than other motorists.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents in Alaska stem from a variety of factors:
- Driver Negligence: Negligent behaviors include failure to yield, distracted driving, and impaired operation. Drivers often fail to see motorcycles, causing deadly collisions.
- Wildlife Hazards: Alaska’s wildlife is abundant, creating a unique risk: sudden moose or bear crossings can lead to fatal crashes, especially on highways and rural roads.
Common Injuries in Alaska Motorcycle Accidents
Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Head injuries are common for motorcyclists, especially if helmets aren’t worn. The injuries can range from mild concussions to life-altering traumatic brain injuries. AS 28.35.245 requires helmet use for riders under 18 but recommends helmets for all riders. Helmets have been shown to cut the risk of fatal head injuries by almost 40%.
Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
Spinal injuries from high-speed motorcycle collisions are often the cause of paralysis, chronic pain, or long-term disability. The costs of rehabilitation for victims can be extensive, and many will never regain full mobility, which is why it’s important to seek compensation through legal action.
Broken Bones and Fractures
The most common injuries in motorcycle accidents are broken bones, often of the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbone. The injuries are caused by direct impact with other vehicles or the ground. Such fractures can be treated through surgeries, physical therapy, and long recovery periods, which only makes things worse financially.
Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries
Road rash is a painful abrasion that strips away layers of skin when riders slide across the asphalt. It can become severe and cause infections, nerve damage, or permanent scarring. Soft tissue injuries, such as torn ligaments and bruising, can cause long-term discomfort and reduced mobility.
Alaska’s Comparative Negligence Law
AS 09.17.080 governs Alaska’s comparative negligence standard. This means that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages. But your compensation will be reduced according to the percentage of your fault. For example, if you are 20% at fault, you can recover 80% of the damages.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
Prioritize Safety and Health
After any motorcycle accident, the first step is ensuring you are safe. If you can, get to a safe place and call 911 right away. Even if the injuries don’t seem that bad, see a doctor because some injuries don’t show up immediately but can worsen.
Gather Evidence
Documenting the accident scene is essential to building a strong legal case. Photograph the scene, including damage to your motorcycle, road conditions, and visible injuries.
Witnesses are to be collected for contact information, and a copy of the police report will be retained for future legal action. An experienced Alaska motorcycle accident lawyer will assist you in pursuing fair compensation and get you through the legal process.
The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, and with injuries, it is difficult to navigate through the legal side of things. A motorcycle accident lawyer will contact you to ensure you know your rights and options.
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