Motorcycle Crashes Are Costly In More Ways Than One
Mar 8, 2013
Atlanta, GA (Law Firm Newswire) March 7, 2013 – Motorcycle crashes maim and kill people, but they also cost $16 billion a year, plus medical expenses.
“It’s well noted that motorcyclists are involved more often in fatal crashes, than passenger vehicles. The fact is, they are up to 30 times more likely to meet their death than occupants in a car, according to the Government Accountability Office,” outlined Stephen Ozcomert, an Atlanta injury lawyer, who practices personal injury, accidents and malpractice law in Georgia. “As an Atlanta injury attorney, I see a fair number of injured bikers and have represented the families of deceased bikers. It is never easy for anyone.”
According to the recently released government report, the direct costs associated with motorcycle crashes are measured in the number of deaths and injuries, and that total was over $16 billion in 2010. However, there is valid speculation that the real costs would be higher once long-term medical expenses are factored in; something that is difficult to determine.
There were 82,000 bikers injured in 2010 and 4,502 killed. The cost for each fatal crash was estimated at roughly $1.2 million. The costs for those surviving an injury accident ranged anywhere from $2,500 to $1.4 million. The numbers were calculated based on the severity of the accident. These numbers are guesstimates, because there are a number of factors that are difficult to get a fix on.
“For instance, treating serious injuries is often a long and very costly process, and one that is not followed for any great length of time. Additionally, those with severe or catastrophic injuries may lose their jobs, change employment or have to renovate their homes to live. None of these associated costs are factored into a motorcycle accident,” Ozcomert added.
And one controversial factor also affects the costs associated with a motorcycle accident survivor, whether or not they were wearing a helmet. In most states there are laws pertaining to wearing helmets. However, three states, New Hampshire, Iowa and Illinois have no helmet laws.
“It’s a simple fact that helmets do help bikers protect their heads, and in doing so, they may avoid traumatic brain injury. Certainly, in other instances, whether or not they were wearing a helmet would not have made a difference. For example, if the biker, with a helmet, was ejected and then run over,” noted Ozcomert.
Nonetheless, helmet debate aside, there are a number of studies online that show helmets to reduce the risk of death by up to 39 percent. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration insists helmets saved at least 1,550 bikers in 2010. “If you have been injured or are the family of a biker killed in an accident, call me. I can advise you of your rights and explain what a lawsuit may accomplish for you,” Ozcomert suggested.
To learn more, contact Atlanta personal injury lawyer Stephen Ozcomert by visiting http://www.ozcomert.com.
Stephen M. Ozcomert, PC
215 North McDonough Street
Decatur, GA 30030
Call: (404) 370-1000
