Motorcycle accidents result in a significant number of head injuries every year. Riders face a higher risk of injuries because they have limited protection compared to other motorists. Sadly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcyclists are 24 times more likely to die in traffic accidents than the occupants of passenger vehicles.
Wisconsin Motorcycle Accident Statistics
While many riders know Wisconsin for its scenic roads, they may not know the state’s devastating motorcycle accident head injury statistics. According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DoT), over a recent five-year span, there were an average of 1,976 motorcycle crashes per year, with an average of 1,674 injuries (including 566 severe injuries) and 95 fatalities.
Of these accidents, a significant portion involved riders who were not wearing helmets. Close to 70 percent of Wisconsin motorcycle riders who died in crashes over a recent four-year period were unhelmeted.
Helmet Use and Head Injury Statistics
A report from NHTSA found that riders who used helmets were between 41 and 69 percent less likely to suffer a brain injury in a crash. This data shows how critical helmets are in protecting riders from catastrophic injuries. Wearing a helmet does not guarantee that an individual will not suffer a head injury in a motorcycle accident. Still, it does indicate they can help riders avoid the lifelong impact of a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Wisconsin doesn’t have a universal motorcycle helmet law. Instead, the state enacted a partial helmet law requiring helmets for operators and passengers under 18. Riders and passengers must also wear helmets if the operator only has an instruction permit. All helmets must meet or exceed USDOT safety standards.
Even without a universal helmet law, transportation officials strongly recommend all riders wear helmets regardless of age or experience. Even the most experienced riders can’t account for the negligent actions of other motorists.
Motorcycle Accident Head Injury Fatalities
More than 5,000 motorcyclists die each year in U.S. collisions alone. Globally, motorcyclists account for the highest number of traffic fatalities overall, even surpassing pedestrian deaths. The leading cause of death in most of motorcycle crashes is head injury. Studies show a helmet can provide enough cushioning for the skull to withstand 47 pounds of force, reducing the risk of an incapacitating head injury. NHTSA also found helmets can reduce can reduce rider fatalities by 22 to 42 percent.
Can I Get Compensation for a Head Injury After a Motorcycle Accident?
If you suffered a head injury in a motorcycle collision, you may have the right to seek compensation through a personal injury claim against the at-fault party. Depending on the facts of the accident and the severity of your injuries, you could recover compensation for your losses resulting from the crash, including your medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
What Can a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer From LawtonCates Do for Me?
LawtonCates has provided comprehensive legal services to the South-Central Wisconsin motorcycle community since 1958. Our attorneys prepare each case for trial, which lets insurance companies know we’re serious about seeking the maximum compensation available to our clients.
Contact our law office today to arrange a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorneys. We’ll evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and walk you through the personal injury claim process.
