You’re not the new kid on the block when it comes to riding a motorcycle, by any means. In fact, you probably feel like your age and experience gives you an edge on safety over the younger, less-skilled riders.
In fact, the opposite may be true. Below are some factors that you need to consider.
Age alone can be a predictor when it comes to severe injuries and death
While studies have produced mixed results, at least one indicates that riders over 40 years of age are 25% more likely to die from motorcycle injuries than younger riders. Plus, another study indicates that the largest group of fatalities occurs among riders 55 years of age and older.
When looking deeper into the data, researchers discovered some factors that may explain why there are different mortality rates for different age groups. The two most common types of serious injuries suffered by motorcyclists in a wreck are chest and head injuries.
As human beings age, their thoracic cage is more prone to fractures, which can end up puncturing their internal organs (with fatal consequences) in a wreck. Also, the natural aging process of the brain makes it harder for an older rider with a head injury to recover.
In short, wounds that a young person could survive can easily kill an older rider.
What does that mean for you, if you’re an older motorcyclist getting ready to pull your ride out for the spring and summer? Mostly, it means that you need to be particularly cautious on the roads out there — especially since many drivers behind the wheels of their passenger vehicles and trucks aren’t really looking for motorcycles.
Have you been injured in a crash with a negligent driver?
As you age, any injury in a wreck with a negligent driver could have long-lasting implications for your health. If you’ve been hurt, let an attorney protect your interests against the insurance company’s mechanisms and assert your right to compensation.
