Injury In Idaho

Enjoy Motorcycle Rides with Safety First

We may be slipping into fall here in Kootenai County but the weather is still beautiful and perfect for taking the bike out to explore our state’s timbered mountains, snaking rivers and pristine lakes.Although fun and exciting, biking is not without risk. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that there were more than 106,000 motorcycle crashes in the U.S. in 2008. Even more sobering is the fact that – per mile traveled – motorcyclists are 39 times more likely to die in a crash than car occupants and 8 times more likely to be injured.

Irresponsible or poor driving can cause accidents, sometimes aggravated by factors like driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs as well as speeding. But many accidents result from scenarios beyond the control of the motorcycle operator:

  • Drivers of other vehicles who violate the bike’s right of way or don’t see it in traffic
  • Poor weather conditions
  • Road defects like uneven pavement, potholes and oil slicks
  • Vehicle failure

Motorcycle Accidents often Cause Serious Injuries

Obviously a motorcycle is no match for cars, trucks and other vehicles in size and weight, and a bike provides little protection to riders. This frequently results in severe injuries to bikers involved in accidents with often catastrophic costs. Typical injuries are:

  • Road rash or abrasions
  • Facial fractures
  • Broken bones
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • Back or neck damage that can be disabling

Based on the Bendell Law Firm’s extensive experience in handling motorcycle accident injury cases, the total cost of one accident can extend far beyond immediate medical care to include future medical expenses, physical therapy, rehabilitation and even home and lifestyle modifications.

Promoting Motorcycle Rider Safety

Bikers must have the right training in addition to keeping their vehicles well-maintained. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers rider safety courses that focus on:

  • Riding sober even as a passenger
  • Riding at your skill level
  • Always wearing protective gear

Although Idaho law requires a DOT-approved helmet only for all riders under age 18, it makes sense for all riders and passengers to buckle one on – a helmeted rider is three times more likely to survive a head injury in a crash than a rider without a helmet.

More Resources

If you or a family member has been involved in a motorcycle or any other type of accident, reach out to Attorney James Bendell, Idaho personal injury attorney, for help in receiving the compensation you deserve. You can contact us through the website or call us at to come in for a free consultation on your case. Our Coeur D’Alene office serves all northern Idaho areas.

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