Posted in Personal Injury Lawyer
Anyone who rides a motorcycle knows there’s a unique sense of freedom that comes with it. But that freedom also comes with serious risks. When a crash happens, motorcycle riders are far more likely to suffer serious injuries compared to drivers in enclosed vehicles. In busy areas like Washington, DC, where traffic is constant and road space is limited, the potential for injury is even greater.
Lack of Physical Protection
One of the biggest reasons injuries are more severe in motorcycle accidents is the lack of protection around the rider. Unlike cars, motorcycles don’t have seat belts, airbags, or a steel frame to absorb impact. When there’s a collision, motorcyclists are often thrown from the bike, exposed to the full force of the impact and any secondary hazards, like the pavement or nearby objects.
Even riders who wear helmets and protective clothing can suffer broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, and internal injuries. The human body simply isn’t built to withstand that kind of impact unprotected. This is why medical bills, rehabilitation, and long-term care are often a larger part of a motorcycle injury claim.
Road Conditions and Visibility
Motorcycles are smaller and harder for other drivers to see, especially in city traffic. Drivers often overlook motorcycles in blind spots, during lane changes, or while making turns. Even minor misjudgments can lead to serious crashes.
Road conditions that would be minor for a car—like potholes, uneven surfaces, or road debris—can be life-threatening for someone on a motorcycle. A sudden shift in weight or traction can cause a rider to lose control, even at lower speeds.
In DC, where road maintenance varies from one neighborhood to the next and construction is common, riders face unpredictable hazards daily. That adds another layer of risk for motorcyclists that drivers simply don’t experience.
Higher Risk of Long-Term Effects
Because of the nature of motorcycle crashes, the injuries often require longer recovery times and may never fully heal. Permanent disabilities, chronic pain, and reduced ability to work or live independently are common outcomes. These long-term effects change how people live their lives—from the type of job they can hold to how they move around and care for themselves.
At Cohen & Cohen, we’ve worked with riders who faced life-altering injuries after a crash. Our founder, Wayne R. Cohen, Esq., has spent his legal career representing individuals who were seriously hurt and needed strong support. Known nationally for his work in personal injury and featured in media outlets like Good Morning America, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post, Mr. Cohen brings a powerful combination of trial skill and client focus.
Mr. Cohen has taught trial law at The George Washington University Law School since 1993 and holds the highest AV rating for professional ability and ethics. As a former President of the Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington D.C., he has deep experience with the legal landscape that affects injury victims in the District.
Legal Support Matters After a Motorcycle Crash
Given how serious motorcycle injuries often are, it’s important to act quickly after a crash. The financial, physical, and emotional impact can be overwhelming, especially if the other driver claims the motorcyclist was at fault. In DC, contributory negligence laws can block recovery if the injured person is found even slightly at fault, which makes strong legal support especially important.
If you’ve been injured while riding and are unsure what steps to take, speak with our Washington DC motorcycle accident lawyer who understands how to build a case that reflects the full impact of your injuries. Contact Cohen & Cohen today for a free case review. We’re here to help you protect your rights and move forward with confidence.
