For decades, motorcyclists have been the most vulnerable users of our highways. While the risk of serious personal injuries in a motorcycle accident continue to remain high, new personal injury prevention technology gives motorcyclists a much stronger fighting chance against catastrophic or fatal injuries in an motorcycle accident.
Auto Week recently reported on two specific technologies that are causing a great deal of excitement among motorcyclists. The first is an inflatable airbag for motorcyclists. Motorcyclists have long had access to inflatable wearable airbags that help cushion the torso, protecting it from serious personal injuries in the event of a motorcycle accident. Older versions of motorcycle airbags have been around for a while now. These versions involve a tether that is connected to the motorcycle, and the airbag inflate when the motorcycle is separated from the rider. Newer versions come with sensors that detect when a motorcycle is in danger of being ejected from his vehicle and inflate automatically to protect him. The speed on some of these sensor -driven air bags is impressive with some airbags inflating in less than 25 milliseconds. Whatever the type or style of the airbags you choose to wear, they can protect you against serious personal injuries to your torso, shoulder and clavicle.
Another major technology advancement in motorcycle safety is the new generation redesign of the motorcycle helmet. Generally, every motorcyclist should wear a helmet while riding. The typical motorcycle helmet is designed to absorb impact in the event of an accident, absorbing shock and protecting the person’s skull and brain from impact. However, this protection only exists when the accident is straightforward and there is a direct impact on the helmet. In those cases in which there is an angle to the impact – and this accounts for a significant number of motorcycle accidents – the helmet may not completely mitigate the risk of a brain injury. Enter the MIPS helmet which comes with an internal shield inside the helmet that gives way upon impact, allowing the outer layer of the helmet to angle, thereby potentially lessening the impact of a traumatic brain injury.
When it comes to protecting the brain, any increase in protection is a significant enhancement and therefore, motorcycle enthusiasts are excited for the expanded use of these MIPS helmets. MIPS technology is not required by federal standards, but if you are an avid motorcyclist, you might want to add an MIPS helmet to your list of safety gear.
The Atlanta Auto crash attorneys at Katz Personal Injury Lawyers are dedicated to the representation of persons injured in car accidents in the metro Atlanta region and across Georgia. If you or a loved one have suffered injuries in a car accident, talk to a lawyer at our firm and determine if you have legal options to a claim for damages. You may be eligible for compensation that includes medical expenses, lost income and other types of damages. Talk to an attorney at our firm and discuss your case.