Death and Disability: How Life Can Change After a Motorcycle Accident

As the weather turns away from the harsh chill of winter, warm winds and budding trees mark the beginning of spring. With the warm weather comes a flurry of related activities such as grilling, outdoor swimming, and almost anything associated with the changing of the seasons. Accompanying that is the increase in motorcycle riders who will be taking to the roads in the upcoming weeks. Without needing to contend with the cold weather, riders no longer have to don layer upon layer of clothing, lest they expose themselves to the harsh elements. Even without the risks that come with element exposure, and icy roads, motorcyclists are still at risk for injury this spring and summer as their wheels touch the pavement. Even a relatively small collision for a car could change the life of the person riding a motorcycle.

Life Changing Impact of Motorcycle Accidents

No one knows this better than former Chicago Bulls basketball player Jason David “Jay” Williams. The Chicago Tribune recently covered a story in which Williams spoke about about his motorcycle accident. Williams’ career started out very promising as the number 2 overall draft pick in the 2002 NBA draft. Shortly after joining the Bulls, Williams purchased a motorcycle. In 2003 he struck a utility pole on the motorcycle, while traveling in excess of 70 miles an hour. The accident left him unable to play, so the Bulls eventually waived him. Although Williams was only injured in that single moment, that accident became a significant turning point in his life.

The Chicago Tribune also reported on a woman who caused a chain of motorcycle accidents back in 2009. Aurora resident Alia Bernard was driving her car when she struck the back of a chain of cars. The car in the front was pushed out into the path of two motorcyclists, who subsequently died from the collision. Bernard is currently serving prison time for the deaths resulting from those accidents.

The Chances of Being in an Accident

Clearly crashes on motorcycles can drastically change, or even end lives, but how often do these incidents occur? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2013 alone there were 4,668 motorcyclists killed in traffic accidents. Ultimately, motorcyclist fatalities accounted for 14% of all traffic fatalities. No matter how careful you are when you take to the roads, there is no way to stay 100% safe. This is why you must prepare for the eventuality that something happens to you by wearing a helmet and practicing safe driving.

What to do After a Motorcycle Accident

Even if you are the most cautious motorcyclist you can still find yourself involved in a crash. If you or a loved one are injured while riding your motorcycles you should contact a licensed motorcycle accident attorney. The attorneys at Fisk & Monteleone LTD. have spent many years defending the rights of their clients in civil cases. We understand the strain a motorcycle accident can place on you and your family. You may sustain property damage, as well as physical damage, not to mention the mental stress you can face. Some of the strain can be eased by having a seasoned motorcycle accident attorney at your side. Our attorneys serve the Rockford and greater Chicago area. Call us today at 815-209-9030 to assist you with your claim.