Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are the leading cause of fatality in motorcycle crashes, reports the Center for Disease Control (CDC) National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. Fatal motorcycle crashes occur throughout the country, including in Atlanta where in late June 2014 a motorcycle passenger died on the Downtown Connector when an alleged drunk driver reportedly struck the bike. The motorcyclist reportedly left the scene but was later arrested.
The high incidence and devastating impact of motorcycle-related TBIs are cause to put this topic in the spotlight. “One of the most severe and costly injuries a person can sustain is a traumatic brain injury. TBI may lead to a lifetime of disability and result in significant rehabilitation and long-term care costs,” according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Below we examine motorcycle accident and TBI statistics from the CDC, Brainline.org, and the NHTSA.
Motorcycle Accident & TBI Statistics
TBI-related deaths and injuries from motorcycle accidents are a significant economic and public health concern, as well as the source of devastation and pain for families across the country. Take a look at the following TBI statistics.
- Motor vehicle crashes including motorcycle accidents are the second overall cause of TBIs, surpassed only by slip and fall accidents. (Brainline.org).
- Unhelmeted riders suffer about twice the percentage of head and face injuries as those wearing a helmet. (NHTSA)
- Approximately six percent of hospital-treated riders in 2003-05 suffered severe TBIs in motorcycle crashes, and another 7.4 percent suffered a moderate TBI. (NHTSA)
- Median hospital charges for motorcycle riders with severe TBIs are 13 times higher than the bill for riders who don’t have TBI. (NHTSA)
- Nearly 5,000 people died in 2012 as a result of motorcycle accidents. One-hundred thirty of these fatalities were in Georgia. (NHTSA)
But TBI statistics may not be a major concern for victims and their families who are personally affected. Those who sustain a TBI may experience significant medical costs – such as hospital bills as one of the brain injury statistics above notes – and could require ongoing care. This can create financial burden for the victim and his or her family. Those wishing to recover compensation from an at-fault party should consult a lawyer.
Speak to a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If your loved one suffered a TBI in a motorcycle accident in Atlanta, seek counsel with a motorcycle accident lawyer. For help in Atlanta or the surrounding areas, contact the Law Office of Jason Schultz for a FREE consultation at 404-474-0804.