Motorcyclist in Critical Condition after Running a Red Light

 

A Man is in Critical Condition After Crashing Motorcycle into Oncoming Vehicle

A man in his 60s was taken to the hospital in critical condition at around 10 p.m. on May 23, 2023, after crashing his motorcycle into a turning vehicle, according to a KSAT News report. The man was running a red light at an intersection on the South side near Roosevelt Avenue when he collided head-on with a vehicle that was turning onto Mission Road. The vehicle stopped and remained at the scene until emergency personnel arrived. It is unclear if alcohol was a factor in the accident.

Did You Know?

Bikers over the age of 60 are three times more likely to be seriously injured in a motorcycle accident than bikers under 60.

Are Senior Motorcyclists at Higher Risk for Injury?

Riding a motorcycle comes with a greater risk for injury than other forms of transportation for all age groups due to the limited protection motorcycles provide their riders. However, studies have shown that age is a contributing factor to the severity of injury a motorcyclist could face in an accident.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents include intoxicated driving, distracted driving, speeding, and reckless driving. When these accidents occur, senior riders are far more likely to be hospitalized for serious injuries, especially injuries to the rib cage and chest. Some contributing factors to the increased likelihood of serious injury include:

1. Bone Density – A decrease in bone density is a natural result of the aging process. This leads to a greater risk of bone fractures to the limbs, chest, and pelvis, which are extremely debilitating and painful injuries with long recovery times for those over 60.
2. Weight Changes – A loss of body fat due to changes in weight that naturally occur in the aging process can lead to less cushioning against a fall off a motorcycle, increasing the risk of severe injury.
3. Pre-existing Medical Conditions – 80% of adults over 65 have a chronic health condition, which commonly includes hearing loss, arthritis, back and neck pain, and hypertension, all of which can contribute to the severity of an injury after an accident.

Learn more about what to do after a motorcycle accident in Texas for riders of all ages at our website.

Tips for Safe Riding Over 60

Senior riders make up a significant portion of motorcycle riders and are often more careful and risk-averse than their younger counterparts. Senior riders have just as much right to enjoy their hobby as any other rider. Here are some tips on staying safe on your motorcycle when you’re over 60:

• Choose the Appropriate Motorcycle – Manufacturers have recently been offering more lightweight models with neutral ergonomics that are a good option for a more comfortable ride for senior riders.
• Manage Your Pain – Chronic pain can serve as a distraction when operating a motorcycle. Make sure you are in a good condition to ride before getting on your motorcycle.
• Know and Follow the Rules of the Road – Take a motorcycle safety course, always wear the appropriate safety gear, and follow all relevant traffic laws to keep yourself safe.

If you have been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident as a senior rider, you may be entitled to compensation.

Injured?

If you were seriously injured in a motorcycle accident that was no fault of yours in San Antonio or the surrounding area, contact Carabin Shaw today at 800-882-1260. We have 30 years of experience representing the personal injury claims of the injured across Texas, and we have the resources to represent your claim. Contact us today.