Typically, a rear-end collision is considered to be a minor type of motor vehicle accident, as evidenced by its nickname, “fender bender.” When motorists in passenger cars are involved in a rear-end accident, they have seat belts, airbags, and the steel frame of the vehicle to protect them from injury. Motorcyclists, on the other hand, have no such protection. In fact, they often have little more than a helmet to save them from impacts against other vehicles, objects, or the pavement. For this reason, a rear-end collision can be exponentially more severe for a motorcyclist.
Rear-end collisions can cause catastrophic injuries to motorcyclists. For example, if a motorcyclist crashes into the back of a car that slammed on its brakes, the bike is usually stopped in its tracks; however, the motorcyclist is often flung from his or her seat and into the air at a high forward velocity. A motorcyclist may bounce off the roof of the car—possibly even the hood—before coming down on the pavement. Severe injuries caused by the multiple impacts may result.
If a motorcyclist is hit from behind by a car, on the other hand, he or she—along with his or her bike—can be flipped directly forward toward the ground. Therefore, the motorcyclist’s face can end up being the first body part to crash into the pavement. Even at lower speeds, these accidents can be catastrophic for a motorcyclist.
Injuries Commonly Suffered in a Rear-End Collision Involving a Motorcycle
Every accident is different and, therefore, the exact nature and severity of the injuries suffered by a motorcyclist in a rear-end collision will depend on the circumstances of the collision.
Factors that can affect injuries include the speed the vehicles were traveling, the angle of the collision, whether the motorcyclist was in front or back, and the type of protective gear the motorcyclist was wearing. Injuries that occur on a regular basis in a rear-end collision include the following:
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Fractured facial bones;
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Destruction of the teeth;
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Broken jawbone;
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Crushed, shattered, or broken bones in the limbs and torso;
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Spinal cord damage;
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Burns from severe road friction; and
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Lacerations and contusions that can damage internal organs.
An Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Green Bay and Appleton Can Help You
If you are a motorcyclist who has suffered devastating injuries and losses in a rear-end collision or any other type of accident, the skilled Appleton personal injury lawyers and Green Bay personal injury lawyers at the [[title]] are here to help you hold negligent parties responsible. We offer free case evaluations and can determine whether you have a viable legal claim. We will then provide individualized attention as we guide you through every step of the legal process to make sure you obtain the full amount you deserve after your painful and traumatic accident. To serve you better, we have offices in Appleton, Green Bay, and Oshkosh, so please do not hesitate to call us at 920-739-7366 for help as soon as possible.