The National Safety Council reported recently that motorcycle deaths have grown by 48 percent in the state of Nevada. And according to the Nevada Highway Patrol, the large growth in motorcycle fatalities were in the age range of older teens and people in their twenties.
Factors Contributing to Increase in Motorcycle Crashes
Increased traffic on Nevada roads is exposing riders to higher risks of motorcycle collisions. But a vast majority of the crashes are due to irresponsible driving habits of other motorists such as:
- Texting
- Speeding
- Impaired driving
Just recently, a motorcyclist died when a pickup truck collided with his motorcycle at an intersection in South Las Vegas Valley. The pickup’s driver apparently cut in front of the motorcycle while making a left turn, causing the motorcycle to crash into the pickup’s side door. The motorcycle rider died at the scene while the other driver was said to be in critical condition. Police said that the other driver was impaired while driving and was charged with DUI resulting in death.
Recovering From the Loss of a Loved One in a Motorcycle Incident
Motorcyclists tend to suffer severe to fatal injuries in a collision with another vehicle due to the motorcycle’s relative light weight and lack of protective covering that other cars and motor vehicles have.
Motorcycle riders who survive road incidents often sustain traumatic injuries such as:
- Brain injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Fractures
- Broken bones
- Other serious internal injuries
For the surviving family members, the period immediately following an unfortunate incident can be the most emotionally challenging time of their lives. Talking to an experienced personal injury attorney about the collision can greatly help. A lawyer can sort all the legal issues of the incident, determine the cause or causes of the victim’s fatal injuries, and identify the party or parties who may be held legally responsible for the lost life.
Depending on the specific circumstances of a case, the qualified heirs of a decedent may be able to recover medical expenses incurred due to the accident, funeral expenses, and other damages.
At the law firm of Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen, our Las Vegas personal injury lawyers understand that families have a lot to deal with after their loss. Our firm is dedicated to helping the loved ones of motorcycle crash victims get through this difficult time.