A recent study in the journal Injury Prevention has found that, although older riders are getting in fewer motorcycle accidents than their younger counterparts, their injury rate in accidents is three times that of younger riders.
Older riders, 60 and over, tend to be injured worse in these accidents, in part because of the physical deterioration that comes with age. “[O]lder riders were shown to suffer more head and chest injuries, and to be more likely to die as a result of their injuries.” They are also three times more likely to be hospitalized as a result of a motorcycle accident than riders in the 20-39 demographic.
These riders also have risk factors that may have contributed to a motorcycle crash, for instance, “delayed reaction time, altered balance, and worsening vision.”
The article reached conclusions about these results that could be useful in decreasing the incidence of these motorcycle crash injuries.
For instance, it concluded that some of these older riders were injured because they were new to motorcycles or had skills that deteriorated over time. A refresher course in motorcycle safety may be appropriate for some older riders.
Texas law does not require a safety helmet for riders over 21 if they can show proof that they’ve successfully completed a training course and have enough medical insurance to cover any injuries they may suffer in an accident. But DOT-approved helmets do reduce the risk of head trauma in accidents and are recommended for all riders, especially those over the age of 60. And because older riders are more likely to suffer chest trauma in an accident, chest protection is recommended for these riders.
If you are a middle-aged or older rider who has been injured in a motorcycle accident you may have a right to compensation for your injuries. Finding a motorcycle injury attorney with experience in motorcycle accident cases is essential, so please reach out to speak with an attorney. Your rights may be in jeopardy.
Photo Credit: “Caveman Chuck” Coker via Compfight cc
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