By Matt Lalande in Motorcycle Accidents on May 24, 2024
As Hamilton motorcycle accident lawyers, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating consequences that riders face when they’re involved in a crash. While all motorcycle accidents have the potential to cause serious injuries, some types of collisions are more likely to result in catastrophic or even fatal outcomes. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at two of the most devastating types of motorcycle accidents: head-on collisions and left-turn crashes.
Motorcycle riders are particularly vulnerable on the road, as they lack the protection of a metal frame, airbags, and other safety features found in passenger vehicles. When a motorcycle is involved in a crash, the rider is often ejected from the bike, leading to severe injuries upon impact with the ground or other objects. The consequences can be life-altering, with victims facing extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term disabilities.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a head-on or left-turn motorcycle accident, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation. At Lalande Personal Injury Lawyers, we have extensive experience representing motorcycle accident victims in Hamilton and throughout Ontario. Call us today, no matter where you are in Ontario, at 905-333-8888 or send us a confidential message through our website, and our intake specialist will get right back to you.
Keep reading to learn more about these devastating crashes and how our firm can help you navigate the complex legal process ahead.
As experienced Hamilton motorcycle accident lawyers, we’ve witnessed the catastrophic aftermath of head-on collisions involving motorcycles. These crashes occur when a motorcycle and another vehicle collide front-to-front, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities for the rider. The sheer force of impact in a head-on collision can be devastating, as the combined speed of both vehicles contributes to the severity of the crash.
When a motorcycle is involved in a head-on collision, the rider is often thrown from the bike, leading to multiple points of impact with the ground, other vehicles, or roadside objects. Unlike occupants of passenger vehicles, motorcyclists do not have the protection of a metal frame, seatbelts, or airbags. This lack of protection leaves riders incredibly vulnerable to severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, internal organ injuries, and fractures.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): are among the most common and devastating consequences of head-on motorcycle collisions. When a rider is ejected from their bike, they may strike their head on the ground or other objects, causing a TBI. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe damage, such as skull fractures, intracranial hemorrhage, and diffuse axonal injury. The effects of a TBI can be life-altering, leading to cognitive impairments, memory loss, personality changes, and emotional difficulties. In the most severe cases, a TBI can result in a coma or permanent vegetative state.
Spinal cord injuries: SCI are another potentially catastrophic outcome of head-on motorcycle crashes. The force of impact can cause the rider’s spine to compress, fracture, or become dislocated, leading to damage to the spinal cord. Depending on the location and severity of the injury, a rider may experience partial or complete paralysis below the point of injury. This can include paraplegia (paralysis of the legs and lower body) or quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs). Spinal cord injuries not only affect mobility but can also lead to a host of secondary complications, such as respiratory issues, pressure sores, and chronic pain.
Internal organ injuries: are also common in head-on motorcycle collisions. The sudden deceleration and impact can cause the rider’s internal organs to shift, tear, or rupture. Injuries to the liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs can be life-threatening and may require emergency surgery. In some cases, internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent, making it crucial for motorcycle accident victims to seek prompt medical attention, even if they feel fine initially.
Fractures are another frequent consequence of head-on motorcycle crashes. The force of impact can cause bones to break, often in multiple places. Riders may suffer fractures to their arms, legs, ribs, pelvis, and skull. These injuries can be incredibly painful and may require extensive medical treatment, including surgery, metal implants, and lengthy rehabilitation.
The road to recovery after a head-on motorcycle collision can be long and challenging. Victims often face extensive medical bills, lost wages, and a diminished quality of life. The physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming, not just for the injured rider but for their family as well.
As Hamilton motorcycle accident lawyers, we have seen the devastating consequences of left-turn accidents involving motorcycles. These crashes occur when a vehicle making a left turn fails to yield the right-of-way to an oncoming motorcycle, resulting in a collision that can cause severe injuries or even fatalities for the rider.
Left-turn accidents are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists because the turning vehicle often strikes the motorcycle on its side, offering little protection to the rider. The impact can cause the motorcyclist to be ejected from their bike, leading to serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, and internal organ injuries.
In Ontario, the Highway Traffic Act places a clear obligation on left-turning drivers to ensure that they can complete their turn safely before proceeding. Section 141(5) of the Highway Traffic Act clearly states that”No driver or operator of a vehicle in an intersection shall turn left across the path of a vehicle approaching from the opposite direction unless he or she has afforded a reasonable opportunity to the driver or operator of the approaching vehicle to avoid a collision.”
This means that left-turning drivers must yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic, including motorcycles, and only proceed when it is safe to do so. Failure to adhere to this law can result in the left-turning driver being found at fault for the collision.
In many cases, when a left-turn accident involving a motorcycle occurs, the left-turning driver is indeed found to be at fault. This is often due to the driver’s failure to properly assess the situation, see the oncoming motorcycle, or accurately judge the motorcycle’s speed before initiating the turn.
However, it’s important to note that there may be circumstances in which the motorcyclist shares some responsibility for the accident. For example, if the motorcyclist was speeding, riding recklessly, or disobeying traffic signals, they may be found partially at fault.
As Hamilton motorcycle accident lawyers, we at Lalande Personal Injury Lawyers thoroughly investigate each case to determine liability and build a strong argument on behalf of our clients. We gather evidence, consult with experts, and use our knowledge of Ontario’s traffic laws to demonstrate the left-turning driver’s negligence and fight for the compensation our clients deserve.
If you’ve been involved in a left-turn motorcycle accident in Ontario, it’s essential to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who can protect your rights and help you navigate the legal process. At Lalande Personal Injury Lawyers, we offer free consultations to discuss your case and provide guidance on the best course of action. Our goal is to alleviate the stress and burden of the legal process, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
The following are some of the more common reasons why left-turn accidents involving motorcycles often occur:
Visibility Issues:
Speed and Distance Misjudgment:
Motorcycle Vulnerability:
Driver Negligence:
The physics of a high-speed left-turn collision is tragically unforgiving for a motorcyclist. Unlike a car’s occupants, a rider has no surrounding metal cage to absorb the impact. Instead, their body becomes the primary point of contact, often leading to catastrophic injuries.
The initial impact, frequently throwing the rider from their bike, can cause severe head trauma, multiple fractures, and devastating internal injuries.
The secondary impact, as the rider’s body collides with the car or pavement, compounds the damage, often resulting in spinal cord injuries, road rash, and long-term disabilities. The violence of these collisions underscores the vulnerability of motorcyclists and the tragic consequences of a driver’s failure to yield.
If the accident was severe enough, then yes. Your social worker will most likely recommend that you speak to a personal injury lawyer before you are discharged from the hospital for several very important reasons:
In Ontario, if you are involved in a serious accident, a hospital social worker may recommend speaking with a personal injury lawyer for several important reasons:
Discharge planning: After a serious motorcycle accident, you may require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and support services. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help ensure that your discharge plan adequately addresses your needs and that the necessary funding is in place to cover these expenses.
Occupational therapist assessment: Your lawyer will typically hire an occupational therapist (OT) to assess your abilities, limitations, and needs following the accident. The OT will evaluate your physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning to determine what supports and accommodations you may require for a successful return home and to your daily activities.
Return home: Based on the OT’s assessment, your lawyer will work with you, your family, and healthcare providers to develop a plan for your safe return home. This may involve coordinating home modifications, acquiring assistive devices, and arranging for in-home care or support services.
Statutory Accident Benefits (SABS): In Ontario, if you are injured in a motor vehicle accident, you are entitled to SABS regardless of who was at fault. These benefits can cover income replacement, medical and rehabilitation expenses, attendant care, and other costs related to your recovery. Your lawyer will help you navigate the SABS application process and ensure that you receive the benefits to which you are entitled.
Assistive devices and home modifications: You may require assistive devices (e.g., mobility aids, adaptive equipment) or home modifications (e.g., ramps, grab bars, stair lifts) to maintain your independence and quality of life. Your lawyer will work with the OT and other experts to identify your needs and secure funding for these items through SABS, tort claims, or other sources.
Protecting your legal rights: Consulting with a personal injury lawyer early on can help protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. Your lawyer will handle communications with insurance companies, gather evidence to support your claim, and advocate on your behalf to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Asking the question, “How do I find a motorcycle accident lawyer near me?” after sustaining serious injuries in a motorcycle accident is very common. We understand that the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, and many victims may be unsure of their legal rights and options. Many, if not most, have never hired a motorcycle injury lawyer.
That’s why we offer free consultations to discuss your case and provide guidance on the best course of action. Our goal is to alleviate the stress and burden of the legal process, allowing you to focus on your recovery and rebuilding your life.
Since 2003, our motorcycle accident lawyers have helped countless victims, not only in Hamilton but across all of Ontario, recover millions in compensation for injuries caused to them by negligent drivers. As your Hamilton motorcycle accident lawyers, we will guide you through the no-fault accident benefit process and work tirelessly to investigate your case, gather evidence, and consult with experts, such as accident reconstructionists and medical professionals, to build a compelling case which demonstrates the extent of your injuries and the impact the accident has had on your life.
Riding motorcycles is an exhilarating experience, but it’s not without its risks. The open road can be unforgiving, and even the most experienced riders can fall victim to negligent drivers. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need compassionate and dedicated legal representation.
As Hamilton motorcycle accident lawyers, we work tirelessly to ensure that our clients receive the support and representation they need during this difficult time. We understand that no amount of money can erase the pain and suffering caused by a head-on collision, but we believe that securing fair compensation can help alleviate the financial burden and provide the resources necessary for recovery.
Please contact us if you’ve been injured in a serious motorcycle accident. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Call us at 905-333-8888 or send us a confidential message through our website, and our intake specialist will get back to you without delay.
With our experience, knowledge, and commitment to client success, we can help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Remember, you don’t have to face this challenging time alone – our Hamilton motorcycle accident lawyers are here to support you every step of the way.
I was a dental hygienist that suffers from really bad scoliosis. My insurance company ignored my doc & cut my benefits off & told me I could do “something”. Matt got me CPP Disability and and LTD settlement – I don’t know what I would have done without him.
My daughter was killed by a drunk driver and it forever changed all of our lives. It seemed that for two years time stopped. This was no an easy journey. Matt let me sit in on the discovery of the driver and boy, he never let up. In the end, our grand-daughter was taken care of and we were compensated for our loss – which we then donated to a cause we believed in.
I call Matt my knight in shining armour. After I was struck by a car while cycling and permanently crippled, he fielded all communications with my especially difficult and downright nasty insurance adjuster. Every step of my care was a battle and I did not have the strength to fight alone.
I lost my leg in a terrible motorcycle accident and Matt help me recover compensation I need because I could not work and the cost of prosthetics and rehab are out of this world. I don’t know what I would have done without him.
My brother ended up paralyzed after a car accident and Lalande did SO MUCH to help get things straight from him getting out of the hospital to all his care for life. We are so grateful for Matt & Heather. I don’t know how my family could have done this without them.
