Motorcyclist Killed In Cobb County
Motorcycles are a popular transportation option, both for the daily commute and pleasure rides. This is especially true during the summer when higher temperatures and sunny skies make the prospect of a motorcycle ride more appealing. Riding a motorcycle, however, comes with great risk and thousands of motorcyclists die every year in accidents. Recently, a Cobb County motorcyclist suffered the same fate during a high-speed wreck.
High Speed Motorcycle Wreck
The accident, which happened at night on Powder Springs Road, involved a motorcycle and a Saturn SL2 vehicle. Investigators say the crash occurred when the Saturn, driven by Lazaro Fernandez, of Marietta, turned left and pulled into the path of the motorcycle causing the motorcyclist, Loyal Thompson III, to be thrown from the motorcycle next to the Hollydale United Methodist Church. Thompson was pronounced dead on the scene.
Common Injuries In Motorcycle Accidents
Their small size and greater exposure means motorcycle accidents and injuries are often very serious or fatal. In collisions with vehicles, motorcyclists can sustain everything from bruises and burns to traumatic brain and spinal injuries. Common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Head injuries – Concussion, brain damage, and neck injuries are very frequent in motorcycle crashes and range from mild to fatal.
- Road rash – Riders sliding across pavement can lead to cuts, skin irritations, infections or even nerve damage.
- Muscle damage – Any muscle can potentially be damaged during an accident and the best prevention is wearing protective clothing.
- Arm and leg injuries – Although often less severe than head trauma, arms, legs, knees, and feet can be bruised, broken, or permanently damaged during an accident.
Many of these injuries require extensive medical care and may lead to permanent disabilities. A driver who was at fault in a motorcycle accident in Georgia could be held liable for not only medical expenses, but also lost income and pain and suffering.
Preventing Motorcycle Accidents
It is the responsibility of all motorists to prevent motorcycle accidents. A majority of accidents are caused for the same reasons. Over half of motorcycle accident deaths involve other vehicles and it is usually the vehicle that strikes the motorcyclists head on. Other common reasons for accidents include cars turning left or changing lanes without checking their blind spots, speeding and other reckless behavior, and the motorcycle splitting lanes.
Accidents can be prevented and injuries lessened by taking the following measures:
- Always checking blind spots before turning or changing lanes;
- Follow all speed limits;
- Share the lane;
- Always wear protective gear when riding a motorcycle;
- Stay out of blind spots as much as possible when riding; and
- Avoid riding or driving after alcohol intake.
Hazards such as potholes, slick roads, or unexpected objects pose a much greater threat to motorcyclists’ safety than to cars. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation shares quick tips that all car and truck drivers should know about motorcycles.
Contact Georgia Trial Attorney
Vehicle crashes involving motorcyclists almost always lead to significant injuries. If you’ve been in an accident and are facing expensive medical bills and disability, it’s time to speak to a car accident attorney about your options. Williams Elleby Howard & Easter is here to answer any questions you have and proudly serves clients in Marietta, Cobb County, and all of Georgia.