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A new report issued by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) has concluded that direct costs from death and injuries due to motorcycle accidents totaled $16 billion in 2010. However, the report added, the total cost is likely higher as the result of the long -term medical expenses that often result form serious personal injuries. These costs are much more difficult to quantify.

Further, the number of fatalities associated with motorcycle crashes is much higher than for car accidents or truck accidents. Motorcycles drivers are 30 times more like to die in traffic crashes than drivers or passengers in other types of vehicles. Costs associated with fatal motorcycle accidents reached an estimated $1.2 million, whereas costs attributable to personal injuries ranged anywhere from $2,500 to $1.2 million depending on the severity of the injury.

If you or a loved one has suffered serious personal injuries as the result of a Sacramento motorcyle accident, or if you have lost a loved one in a fatal California motorcycle crash, seek the advice of a top Sacramento personal injury attorney right away. Many times, it may be possible to recover compensation for your injuries.

Common motorcycle injuries include:

• Head and neck injuries
• Brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Severe cuts and bruises

As pointed out in the government study, the extent of the injuries may not be known right away. In some situations a lifetime of care may be required, often leading to significant medical costs and expenses. Additionally, those injured may lose significant amounts of money in lost wages and compensation both at the time of the accident and in the future. By working with a skilled Sacramento personal injury attorney it may be possible to recover damages including these amounts.

Although significant efforts have been made to improve the safety of motorcycle riding, the number one way to reduce significant personal injuries arising from motorcycle accidents is to wear a helmet.

Studies indicate that wearing a helmet reduces the risk of death by nearly 39%. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), helmet usage saved the lives of 1,550 motorcyclists in 2010. Despite clear benefits from this safety measure, many riders resist wearing helmets. Currently, California has a mandatory helmet laws, however, over the year several proposals have been discussed by motorcycle groups seeking to repeal mandatory usage laws. While many motorcycle groups endorse using helmets as a safety protection in the event of a motorcycle accident, they also oppose mandatory helmet usage as a personal liberty infringement and assert that they have the right to assume the risk of riding without a helmet. These groups believe the key to accident prevention is improved education, rather than mandatory helmet laws.

For more information about motorcycle accidents injuries or motorcycle safety, or if you or a loved one has been in a California motorcycle accident, please contact the top Sacramento personal injury lawyer at Sette Law Office for an immediate consultation