Those who are rear ended on motorcycle vehicles are usually not at fault. Therefore, they can often seek compensation – provided they can show the driver of the passenger car is 100% to blame.
That’s why it pays–literally–to know your rights when filing for financial compensation for medical treatment costs and other damages.
Motorcycle riders can’t file a claim if their brake lights weren’t working or they were driving recklessly before the accident.
While trailing cars are usually at fault, an insurance adjuster might shift the blame to you if were randomly changing lanes or stopped at the last minute at a red light.
If you’re seeking compensation for medical attention, emergency room care, and property damage for a rear end accident, you need to know when to provide insurance information and when to claim an insurance company.
Why Rear Ended Motorcycle Accidents Are Especially Hazardous for Motorcycle Riders?
On average, motorcycles weigh about 600 pounds. Harleys may weigh as much as 800 to 1,000 pounds.
However, those weights are light compared to the weight of an average passenger car, especially a car traveling at a high speed.
According to the EPA, an average passenger car weighs 4,094 pounds. This weight is quite forceful in a rear end collision – even if a car hits the back wheel of a Harley bike.
From the momentum alone, the rider may need to seek medical attention for serious spinal cord injuries, severe back injuries, or even a traumatic brain injury.
Moreover, traffic laws tend to favor drivers of other vehicles over motorcyclists.
Fortunately, there are other traffic laws that punish the driver for punitive damages if they cut off a motorcyclist when switching lanes.
They can also be held accountable if they cause an accident by not yielding to motorcyclists at intersections or while turning.
Fatality Rates for Motorcycle Crashes
Rear end collisions took the lives of 233 motorcyclists in 2019.
You only have to visit the NHTSA website and related links to review the statistics for yourself.
Why Does a Motorcycle Get Rear Ended?
Below are some common reasons why rear ended accidents happen to motorcycle riders:
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Distracted Driving
This is a leading cause of all types of vehicle accidents, including motorcycle rear-ends. Drivers who are texting, eating, or impaired can easily crash into a motorcycle stopped in front of them.
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Sudden Stops
Motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars – due to their lighter weight. In some cases drivers who do not anticipate this quick stop might crash into the back of the motorcycle in front of them.
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Poor Visibility
Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, making them harder to see. This is especially true in bad weather, when driving a night, or when navigating blind curves on the roadway.
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Following Too Closely
Tailgating, or following a motorcycle too closely, doesn’t give the car driver enough time to stop or react. Motorcycles often stop quicker than other vehicles increasing the risk of being rear-ended.
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Speeding
Drivers who exceed speed limits have less time to react to changes in the traffic flow.
Common Injuries in Rear End Collisions in Motorcycle Accident Claims
Because motorcyclists are exposed and unprotected, rear end crashes often result in the following serious injuries – all which can lead to high medical expenses for emergency care and rehab.
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Whiplash
This is a frequent injury in rear end motorcycle accidents. It happens when the victim experiences a sudden jolt to the neck.
During the rear end collision, either the motorcyclist stops too quickly or the other driver is distracted as the result of impaired driving, texting, or speeding.
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Head Injuries
Even when wearing a helmet, riders can suffer concussions or more serious traumatic brain injuries in rear end motorcycle accidents.
Anytime, when one of the two vehicles is a motorcycle at an accident scene, this type of injury can occur.
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Road Rash
A rider who is thrown from their motorcycle may suffer road rash or skin abrasions after they hit the pavement.
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Broken Bones and Fractures
The impact of an accident can easily lead to broken bones – particularly the bones of the arms, legs, or ribs.
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Spinal Cord Injuries
If a car rear ends you, these injuries are some of the most serious injuries you can suffer. They frequently lead to long-term disability claims.
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Internal Organ Damage and Bleeding
The force of an impact can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs – some of which are life-threatening.
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Lower Extremity Injuries
Legs and feet can get injured or crushed if pinned between the bike and another vehicle or object.
Tips for Preventing a Rear End Collision
Understanding and implementing preventive measures to avoid a rear end motorcycle collision can help keep you safer on the road, especially if you log substantial vehicle miles per year.
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Increase Visibility
Make sure you are easily seen by other drivers. A motorcycle rider should wear bright or reflective clothing to avoid motorcycle crashes.
They should also make sure their lights are working properly, especially at night or during poor weather conditions when the vehicle miles traveled can seem monotonous and uncertain.
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Maintain Safe Following Distances
Always keep a safe distance between your bike and the vehicle in front of you. This gives you enough time to react if you need to stop suddenly or if you want to avoid a rear end motorcycle collision.
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Use Your Mirrors
Regularly check your mirrors so you’re aware of the vehicles approaching from behind. Doing so can help you avoid a broadside crash or rear end motorcycle accident.
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Signal Early
Always signal well before you turn or change lanes to avoid rear end collisions.
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Change Lanes Wisely
Don’t show off when you change lanes. Move to the faster lane only when passing a much slower vehicle. Doing so avoids motorcycle crashes and severe injuries.
Always drive defensively to prevent a rear end motorcycle crash or similar traumatic experience.
Find Out How the Law Offices of Alex Poberesky Can Help You with Your Rear End Crash Accident Claim
The Law Offices of Alex Poberesky specialize in helping victims of motorcycle accident personal injury claims who’ve suffered injuries and are seeking financial compensation.
Our team of lawyers can guide you through the legal steps needed to pursue this specialized accident claim. Reach out today to learn how we can assist you. Contact us 24/7 to schedule a free consultation right away.
