High-side and low-side motorcycle accidents are two types of accidents that can occur while riding a motorcycle. The main difference between these two types of accidents is how the motorcycle rider is thrown from the bike. In a low-side accident, the rider is typically thrown to the side of the motorcycle as it slides along the ground. In a high-side accident, the rider is often thrown over the motorcycle as it flips or rolls.
High-side motorcycle crashes are also more difficult to predict and control than low-side accidents, as they can occur suddenly and without warning. They are often caused by excessive speed, sudden braking, or improper use of the motorcycle’s throttle.
An experienced Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer may help you navigate the legal system, including dealing with insurance companies, filing a claim for damages, and pursuing compensation for your injuries and other losses.
What is a High-Side Motorcycle Accident?
A high-side motorcycle crash occurs when the rear wheel of a motorcycle loses traction and then regains traction suddenly, causing the motorcycle to flip over or roll.
High-side accidents can happen quickly and without warning, leaving the rider little time to react. The force of impact in a high-side accident can be significant and result in severe injuries to the rider.
What is a Low-Side Motorcycle Accident?
A low-side motorcycle crash occurs when the rider loses traction with the road surface, causing the motorcycle to slide out from under them. This can happen when a rider takes a turn too quickly, hits a patch of gravel or other debris on the road, or applies too much braking force while turning.
Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accidents can result in many injuries, some of which can be very serious or even life-threatening. Some of them are as follows:
- Head injuries: Head injuries are one of the most serious injuries in a motorcycle accident. These can range from minor concussions to traumatic brain injuries, resulting in permanent disability or death.
- Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis and can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.
- Road rash: Road rash is an abrasion when a rider’s skin rubs against the road surface.
- Broken bones: Fractures are common in motorcycle accidents, particularly in the legs, arms, and ribs.
- Internal injuries: Both types of motorcycle crashes can result in internal injuries such as organ damage or internal bleeding.
- Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, and bruises are also common in motorcycle accidents.
- Emotional trauma: Motorcycle accidents can also cause emotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression.
High Side VS Low Side Motorcycle Crash
| Differentiating Parameters | High-side motorcycle crash | Low-side motorcycle crash |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Loss of traction and sudden regaining of traction | Loss of traction and sliding |
| Speed | Typically occurs at higher speeds | It can occur at any speed but typically at lower speeds |
| Rider’s position | A rider is thrown over the motorcycle | The rider typically slides along the ground |
| Risk of injury | Higher risk of serious injury, such as head trauma or spinal cord injuries | Lower risk of serious injury, but still can cause road rash, broken bones, or head injuries |
| Safety gear | Wearing appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet and protective clothing, is crucial. | Wearing appropriate safety gear can help reduce the risk of injury, but less critical than in high-side accidents. |
| Prevention | Using proper braking techniques, maintaining appropriate speed, and being aware of road conditions can help prevent high-side accidents. | Reducing speed when approaching a turn, maintaining proper tire pressure, and being alert for road hazards can help prevent low-side accidents. |
Seeking Compensation After High-Side and Low-Side Motorcycle Accidents
If a motorcyclist is involved in an accident due to another driver’s negligence or carelessness, they may be able to seek compensation for their injuries and damages. A few steps you can take if you’re involved in a high- or low-side motorcycle accident include:
- Gather evidence: Collect evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records that support your claim. This evidence will help you establish liability and prove the extent of your damages.
- Document your injuries and losses: Keep records of your medical treatments, prescriptions, rehabilitation, and other related expenses. Additionally, document any impact the accident has had on your daily life, such as lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
- File a claim: Once you have gathered evidence and determined liability, file a claim with the appropriate insurance company or companies. Your attorney can help you with this process and ensure that all necessary documentation is submitted.
- Negotiate a settlement: The insurance company may offer a settlement to resolve the claim in most personal injury cases. A Personal Injury lawyer may help you negotiate a fair settlement that factors the full extent of your damages and injuries.
Need Legal Help? Contact Our Accident Law Firm
If you or a loved one were hurt in a motorcycle accident in the Philadelphia area, contact The Law Offices of Samuel Fishman. They have been helping accident victims for more than 30 years to seek full and fair compensation for their losses and injuries.
With their expertise and knowledge, their team of dedicated attorneys has helped clients protect their legal rights and hold negligent parties accountable for their actions. Schedule a free consultation by calling 215-464-4600 or completing our contact form online.