Motorcycle accidents are far too common on Cincinnati roads, and the consequences are often catastrophic. With little to no protection between rider and road, even a low-speed crash can result in serious injuries, long-term disabilities, or even death. Unlike car drivers, motorcyclists are exposed to greater risks every time they ride, often due to the negligence of others on the road. Unfortunately, riders are frequently overlooked by drivers who fail to yield, don’t check their blind spots, or misjudge distances and speeds. The result? Devastating collisions that can change a rider’s life in an instant.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Cincinnati:
- Drivers failing to yield the right-of-way
- Unsafe lane changes or merges
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, etc.)
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Drunk or impaired driving
- Left-turn collisions at intersections
- Poor road conditions or potholes
- Doorings (when a parked driver opens their door into a rider’s path)
When the worst happens, The Attkisson Law Firm is here to help. With years of experience representing injured riders and their families across Cincinnati, our firm understands the unique challenges that come with motorcycle accident cases. We can help you pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. Securing compensation isn’t just about recovering costs, it’s about restoring stability, protecting your future, and holding negligent parties accountable. Let us fight for the justice and recovery you deserve.
Most Common Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can lead to devastating injuries, especially when bad weather, poor visibility, or slippery roads are involved. Without the protection of a vehicle’s frame, airbags, or seatbelts, riders are highly vulnerable to the full force of impact. Even minor crashes can result in serious or life-altering trauma, requiring long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
Some of the most common injuries from motorcycle accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Road rash and severe skin abrasions
- Broken or fractured bones
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Dislocations and soft tissue injuries
- Facial injuries and dental trauma
- Amputations and crush injuries
What to Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident
The moments following a motorcycle accident can be chaotic and disorienting, but the steps you take are critical to protecting both your health and your legal rights. Having The Attkisson Law Firm on your side during this time can make all the difference. From gathering evidence to seeking medical care, each decision impacts your ability to recover physically and financially.
Here’s what to do immediately after a motorcycle accident:
- Move to safety and check for injuries
- Call 911 to report the accident and request medical help
- Document the scene with photos and videos
- Collect contact and insurance information from all parties involved
- Get names and statements from any witnesses
- Avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine
- Contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible
Motorcycle Laws in Ohio
Ohio has specific laws that all motorcyclists must follow to ride legally and safely. These laws cover everything from helmet requirements to lane usage. Understanding these laws is critical for both motorcyclists and other drivers to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
Helmet Requirements |
Lane Usage |
- Riders under the age of 18 must wear a helmet.
- New riders (with a temporary permit or in their first year of a license) must wear a helmet.
- Passengers of a rider who is required to wear a helmet must also wear one.
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- Motorcyclists are allowed to ride two abreast in a single lane.
- Riding more than two abreast is not permitted.
- Lane splitting (riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic) is illegal.
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Cincinnati Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Data regarding motorcycle accidents specifically for Cincinnati, as opposed to the greater Ohio state area, can be difficult to find in a simplified list. However, based on available information, here are some key findings for Hamilton County (which includes Cincinnati) and the surrounding region:
- Hamilton County Accident Totals: From 2018 to 2022, Hamilton County had a total of 1,128 motorcycle-involved crashes, making it the third-highest county in the state for this type of accident.
- Major Highways and Intersections:
- I-75 is a major area for accidents, particularly the stretch between Exit 4 and Exit 10A in Cincinnati.
- I-71 and the Lytle Tunnel are also considered dangerous due to high traffic volume, narrow lanes, and sharp curves.
- I-275 also sees a significant number of crashes.
- Peak Times: Motorcycle accidents in Ohio are most common during the warmer months, typically from May through September.
- Helmet Use: A significant majority of motorcyclists killed or seriously injured in Ohio (72% and 66%, respectively, from 2018-2022) were not wearing helmets.
How Liability Is Determined in Motorcycle Accidents
Liability is one of the most critical factors in any motorcycle accident claim. Establishing who was at fault determines who pays for damages, medical bills, and other losses. In motorcycle cases, riders are often unfairly blamed, even when another party’s negligence caused the crash. That’s why it’s essential to work with a personal injury attorney who knows how to investigate thoroughly and protect your rights.
Parties that may be held liable in a motorcycle accident include:
- Negligent drivers (e.g., those who failed to yield or were distracted)
- Commercial vehicle operators and trucking companies
- Motorcycle manufacturers (for defective parts or equipment)
- Government entities (for poor road design or maintenance)
- Construction crews or contractors (if unsafe road conditions caused the crash)
- Other motorcyclists or bicyclists
Liability is determined by collecting and analyzing evidence such as police reports, eyewitness statements, accident reconstruction, traffic camera footage, and medical records.
Legal Process for a Motorcycle Accident Case
The legal process for a motorcycle accident case differs significantly from that of a car accident. Insurance companies often treat motorcyclists with skepticism, relying on harmful stereotypes to shift blame and minimize payouts. Because motorcycle crashes frequently involve more severe injuries, the stakes are higher, and so is the resistance from insurers.
These cases require a detailed investigation, specialized knowledge of motorcycle dynamics, and expert testimony to accurately demonstrate the impact of the crash. From the initial investigation and filing of claims to negotiations and potential litigation, every step must be handled with precision. Having a lawyer who understands the nuances of motorcycle law can make the difference between a denied claim and a full, fair recovery.
Get Legal Help from a Cincinnati Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The road to recovery can be physically, emotionally, and financially exhausting, but the law gives you the right to seek compensation for the harm you’ve suffered.
At The Attkisson Law Firm, we know what you’re up against, and we know how to fight back. From securing medical care to negotiating with insurance companies and building a powerful case, we’re here to make sure you’re not taken advantage of. You deserve answers. You deserve accountability. And you deserve a legal team that’s ready to ride with you every step of the way. Contact the Attkisson Law Firm today.