Motorcycle Accidents vs. Car Accidents: What is the Difference? 

Motorcycle Accidents vs. Car Accidents: What is the Difference? 
Calendar icon May 15, 2023

There are a lot of similarities when it comes to motorcycle accidents vs. car accidents. They both involve motorized vehicles and can result in severe injuries and fatalities. But that’s about where the similarities end. There are many more differences between the two than you might have imagined. 

If you’ve suffered an injury or lost a loved one in a motorcycle or car accident caused by someone’s negligence, contact Cellino Law as soon as possible. One of our experienced, skilled attorneys will tell you how we plan to help you obtain the compensation you deserve. 

Schedule a free consultation by contacting us online or calling (800) 555-5555.

Motorcyclists are Considered “Vulnerable Road Users”

There’s no doubt that riding a motorcycle is one of the most liberating feelings anyone can have. But with that freedom comes significant risk.

Motorcyclists are considered “vulnerable road users” due to their limited protection compared to car occupants. While cars provide drivers and passengers with the protection of a sturdy metal frame, airbags, and seat belts, motorcyclists have little to shield them from the impact of a collision. 

This lack of protection makes them more susceptible to severe injuries or tragic fatalities. Motorcyclists are exposed to direct impact, leaving them vulnerable to severe head injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures, road rash, and internal injuries. The vulnerability of motorcyclists underscores the importance of raising awareness about their presence on the road and encouraging both motorists and motorcyclists to exercise caution and share the road responsibly.

Injuries Can Vary 

In terms of injuries, there are distinct differences between motorcycle and car accidents. Motorcycle accidents often result in more severe injuries due to the lack of protective barriers. Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are more prevalent among motorcyclists who aren’t wearing helmets. Spinal cord injuries and fractures are also common due to the direct impact of the collision. 

Additionally, road rash, which occurs when a motorcyclist slides across the pavement. This injury can lead to severe skin abrasions, infections, and long-term scarring. 

On the other hand, car accidents tend to involve a combination of impact injuries from collisions and injuries caused by seat belts and airbags. These include severe whiplash, fractures, concussions, and internal injuries.

Bikers are Stereotyped

Motorcycle Accidents vs. Car Accidents: What is the Difference? Motorcyclists often face stereotypes that influence public opinion and bias in accident situations. Unfortunately, there’s a perception that bikers are reckless, thrill-seekers, and prone to dangerous riding behaviors. That’s usually how TV shows and movies portray riders. 

As ridiculous as it sounds, people often believe what they see – and that can work against a rider when they’re hurt in an accident. These stereotypes can create biases during investigations and legal proceedings. The vast majority of motorcyclists are responsible riders who prioritize safety. But that doesn’t stop insurance companies from using stereotypes – employing other questionable tactics – to their advantage to deny riders their rightful compensation.

Overcoming these stereotypes is crucial for the fair and just treatment of motorcyclists involved in accidents. At Cellino Law, we’re well aware of the obstacles riders face when seeking justice. We use the facts of the case – facts based on hard evidence – to overcome whatever stereotypes the opposition tries to employ.

The Lawsuit Processes

The lawsuit processes for motorcycle accidents and car accidents share similarities but also have distinct differences. In both cases, it’s essential to gather evidence. This evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records, can support the claim. 

However, due to the increased severity of injuries in motorcycle accidents, it’s often necessary to build a stronger case to establish liability and the extent of damages. Motorcycle accident cases may require expert testimonies, accident reconstruction, and detailed accident scene analysis. 

Additionally, insurance companies may attempt to downplay the severity of injuries or shift blame onto the motorcyclist. Therefore, hiring an experienced attorney with extensive experience in motorcycle accidents is crucial to have the best chance of achieving a positive result in your case. Cellino Law attorneys will negotiate with insurers to achieve a fair settlement. But if that’s not possible, we’ll be well prepared to take your case to trial.

Resulting Damages from Motorcycle Accidents vs. Car Accidents

The financial losses, or “damages,” that result from motorcycle and car accidents are similar. Victims of each will usually have extensive medical bills and lose money because they can’t work. They may also suffer severe emotional distress.

The most significant difference is that motorcycle accidents frequently lead to more substantial damages due to the severity of injuries. Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment, can be exorbitant. Furthermore, motorcyclists may experience significant pain and suffering and reduced quality of life. If a motorcycle accident is fatal, the emotional and financial toll on the surviving family members can be devastating.

Car accidents, while still capable of causing severe injuries and damages, may not always reach the same level of severity as motorcycle accidents. The protection provided by car structures, seat belts, and airbags can mitigate the impact and reduce the risk of injuries. 

That’s not to say, of course, that car wrecks don’t lead to debilitating injuries and deaths. On average, however, the damages resulting from motorcycle accidents are typically much higher.

Motorcycle Accidents vs. Car Accidents: When to Hire a Lawyer 

Determining when to hire a lawyer following a motorcycle or car accident is an important consideration. In both cases, you must seek legal representation immediately if you’ve sustained a severe injury. You’ll face high medical expenses and probably have to deal with stiff opposition from the insurance company. Seeking immediate legal counsel allows you to receive timely advice and ensure the preservation of crucial evidence.

However, due to the unique challenges associated with motorcycle accidents, it’s often more crucial to involve an attorney with significant experience handling these cases. They’ll have the expertise to gather the necessary evidence and navigate the complexities of your case. 

Contact Cellino Law to Speak to an Experienced Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney ASAP After Your Accident

If you need legal assistance after a motorcycle or car accident, please don’t hesitate to contact Cellino Law. Our attorneys can provide the guidance and support needed to protect your rights and advocate for your best interests. 

You can schedule a free case evaluation by calling (800) 555-5555 or using our online contact form.

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Testimonials

  • Choosing the right attorney to represent you after an accident can make all the difference. This is no cliche. I recently experienced these words to live by first hand. After a tractor trailer rear ended me at high speed in 2017 I retained Allan Silverstein to handle my case. I quickly realized that bringing a lawsuit rapidly snowballs into a mountain of details that can make or break your results. Documents, case histories, doctor visits, bills, and lots of phone calls all need to be accurately kept track of if a successful outcome it to be attained. To complicate matters I reside in New York and the incident took place in New Jersey. Luckily, Allan was licensed in multiple states. I was fortunate to find Allan to handle this matter from the New York area. Armed with an accurate account of the facts Allan went to work on the difficult job of negotiating with the defending insurance company as well as my no fault carrier in order to obtain the best possible outcome for my set of circumstances. In a lawsuit communication is key and and events can be of a timely nature. Allan never failed to return my calls - usually the same day! He fought skillfully and respectfully to get me the best possible settlement. He is easy to deal with and a likeable down to earth guy. He always listened with compassion and respect to my issues. He guided me with objective understanding as well as a realistic analysis of the merits of my case. When we finally settled Allan got me a fair agreement beyond my expectations and negotiated with my doctors to make sure all my bills were paid. It was a great experience having Allan represent me. Quality work in any aspect of life is hard to find. Quality is what I got with Allan Silverstein. I highly recommend him if you find yourself in need of a personal injury attorney.

    Theodore

  • Cellino Law and more specifically my attorney, Gregory V. Pajak, Managing Attorney, and as a whole the Cellino Law Firm and its organization. This is by far one of the most professional law firms and attorney I have ever engaged with and retained in my 35 years. The level of professionalism goes beyond words, the care and constant engagement with me as the client was touching. I was never ever just treated as simply a CASE with potentially a significant dollar number attached to my file. I was engaged regularly, Tracey (Ass’t) and Greg always made sure to remain constant, as well as consistent in overseeing that my case was handled properly and that it did matter in many ways - ensuring that the end result(s) would be fair and reasonable to my case/injury. The regular follow-up calls were very satisfying, knowing that you’re involved in your case matters significantly AND always. One of my main items to recognize Cellino Law and Gregory is that whenever I called, I was able to get through to speak directly to my Lawyer and he would answer any if not all of my questions in a very professional and genuinely caring manner. I always felt cared for and protected legally and more importantly, I was made feel as a human being that was being cared for and always keeping me abreast of all matters connected to the case. There was never a point I felt let down, on the contrary -the level of service was “STELLAR”. Greg is the consummate professional, a ‘role model’, if you will, for what other attorneys should strive to become when dealing with their clients.

    Anthony

  • We want to send a big "Thank you" from the both of us. We know you both fought for us and did a great job with our case. You did it in a timely manner and we appreciate it.

    Kerrijo & Jerry

  • I am so grateful for your expertise, patience, and perseverance which resulted with such a successful settlement regarding my car accident. I also want to let you know how impressed I was with you and your firm and I won't hesitate to recommend you to anyone who needs assistance from an accident. I truly appreciated your care and professionalism. Thank you again for your kindness and support

    Lisa

  • I just want to let you know that I did receive my settlement check. More importantly, I want to thank you again for all you did for both me and my family. I could not be more pleased with my experience at Cellino Law. From the moment I first spoke with you I felt comfortable - you took a sincere interest in my case, clearly explained the process and effected a quick settlement. From this day forward, when someone asks if I can recommend a good lawyer I will, without hesitation, say "Cellino Law". Thanks again.

    Walter

  • I can only say great things about my attorney Allan Silverstein. He is professional, he calls back right away, he keeps me informed, and makes me feel comfortable as this entire ordeal is stressful. I have total confidence in his ability to handle whatever comes his way. He is no nonsense and very good at his job. Thank you Allan... he is a true asset to the team!

    Mrs Steward