The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that motorcycles accidents continue to rise throughout the country and in New Hampshire. Naturally, a rise in motorcyclists on the road has resulted in an increased rate of motorcycle accidents. Under New Hampshire law, motorcyclists who cause injuries to other motorists, passengers, or pedestrians, along with those who cause injuries to motorcyclists may be held liable for their negligence. Negligent parties may be responsible for injury victims’ medical bills, lost wages and benefits, property damage, and ongoing pain and suffering.
Cars and trucks are typically equipped with airbags, seat belts, and other safety features, but motorcycles do not have all of these safety features. The lack of protective features often causes motorcyclists to suffer serious injuries or death after an accident. CDC data reveals that statistics show that motorcyclists tend to sustain injuries to their legs, head, upper torso, and arms, despite using approved helmets and thick leather clothing. These injuries often coincide with traumatic brain injuries, concussions, and spinal cord injuries. Even with prompt treatment and aggressive therapy, many motorcyclists face life-long debilitating conditions that may impact their ability to work or maintain relationships.
Further, because of the nature of these accidents, police often encounter challenges when trying to recreate the scene of the accident and determine liability. In many cases, motorcycles and their riders are thrown into a position that makes it challenging to determine what caused the accident. Additionally, there is often a bias toward motorcyclists that can impact insurance payouts. However, a person’s choice of a vehicle does not reduce another person’s standard of care towards them, nor does it reduce a biker’s right to compensation.