Motorcyclists face significant risks on the road, with crashes often leading to severe injuries. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 80 percent of motorcycle accidents result in injuries or fatalities. Among the most frequent and dangerous types of crashes are rear-end collisions. Below, our Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyers discuss key facts about rear-end motorcycle crashes in Pennsylvania and New Jersey and what injured riders can do to recover compensation.
Rear-End Collisions: A Leading Cause of Multi-Vehicle Motorcycle Accidents
Rear-end collisions are alarmingly common in Pennsylvania, especially for motorcyclists. In fact, these accidents account for nearly half of all multi-vehicle motorcycle crashes reported in the state. The primary reason? Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles, making them particularly susceptible to being hit from behind.
Several forms of driver negligence contribute to rear-end motorcycle accidents, including:
- Tailgating (following too closely)
- Distracted driving (texting, using a phone, or other inattention)
- Sudden stops (failure to maintain a safe following distance)
- Impaired driving (drunk or drugged driving)
Why Rear-End Collisions Are So Dangerous for Motorcyclists
Rear-end collisions are far more dangerous for motorcyclists than for those in cars. Here’s why these crashes often lead to catastrophic injuries:
1. Lack of Protection
Unlike car occupants, motorcyclists have no structural protection—no airbags, seat belts, or metal frames to absorb the impact. When hit from behind, a rider bears the full force of the collision, leading to serious injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractured or crushed bones
- Severe road rash and burns
2. High Risk of Ejection
When a motorcycle is struck from behind, the force can throw the rider off the bike, sometimes launching them into the air. This increases the likelihood of:
- Head trauma and concussions
- Neck and back injuries
- Internal organ damage
3. Increased Risk of a Secondary Impact
A rear-end motorcycle crash often throws the rider into traffic, putting them at risk of being hit by another vehicle. This secondary impact can be fatal or lead to life-altering disabilities.
Maximizing Compensation After a Rear-End Motorcycle Crash
If you were injured in a rear-end motorcycle accident, you have the right to pursue full financial compensation. Unfortunately, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts—but an experienced lawyer can help you fight for what you deserve.
Depending on the severity of your injuries and losses, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Motorcycle repairs or replacement
- Emergency medical expenses and hospital bills
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Long-term disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages (for fatal motorcycle crashes)
Why Choose Quinn Injury Lawyers for Your Rear-End Motorcycle Accident Claim?
At Quinn Injury Lawyers, we know how devastating motorcycle crashes can be—especially rear-end collisions. Our Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorneys are dedicated to securing maximum compensation for injured riders. We will:
Listen to your story and answer all of your legal questions
Investigate the rear-end crash and collect the necessary evidence
Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies on your behalf
Take strong legal action if the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement
Contact Our Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one was injured in a rear-end motorcycle crash, you need an experienced legal team on your side. At Quinn Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping injured motorcyclists in Pennsylvania and New Jersey recover the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case review. With offices in Philadelphia and Cherry Hill, we proudly represent motorcycle accident victims throughout the region.