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Harley Davidson’s New Electric Motorcycle

Anyone that knows motorcycles has heard the name Harley Davidson. Founded in the early 1900s, Harley Davidson was one of the few motorcycle companies to survive the great depression and has overcome numerous challenges throughout the years to become the most recognized name in motorcycles in the United States today. Harley Davidson strives to keep up with emerging technologies, and has recently unveiled a new electric motorcycle. Electric Motorcycle Events The company will be introducing the new electric motorcycle to consumers through a series of events at select Harley Davidson dealerships across the country and into Canada. Called “Project LiveWire,” the events will give customers a chance to ride the new motorcycles and provide feedback. The company has not yet announced when or even if the motorcycles will be for sale, but expects to acquire information from the Project LiveWire events that will fuel future changes and innovations. Electric Motorcycle Features Although electric motorcycles are not a completely new concept, the idea is removed from the traditional idea of Harley Davidson’s loud, gasoline powered motorcycles. The new electric motorcycle is quiet, and has a unique sound that is very different from the drum beat that is ordinarily associated with Harley motorcycles. The “LiveWire” prototype runs on rechargeable batteries, which can save consumers money, but presents a few challenges. LiveWire Challenges The current LiveWire prototype can only go about 50 miles before requiring a charge. At this time, charging the electric motorcycle takes a few hours. Before the electric motorcycle can go to market, charging stations would have to be installed across the country to allow customers to fuel up as needed. This challenge has been the greatest drawback to the project so far. Project Live Wire Feedback Many customers of Harley Davidson enjoy long distance touring and have admitted that the bike would not be an attractive purchase unless it could drive much longer on a single charge, charge more quickly, and have convenient spots to charge when traveling. The company has announced the target market for the new electric motorcycle as younger, urban professionals that will not need to travel far during each excursion, but this may cost Harley Davidson sales to the existing customer base. Customers are divided on the difference in sound from older models, with some preferring the new purr and others favoring the louder gasoline powered sound. The electric motorcycle has a faster initial pick-up, which is a quality that most consumers enjoy. Many are excited at the prospect of such a renowned company as Harley Davidson joining the foray into alternative fuel sources for motorcycles. Sources: http://project.harley-davidson.com/...

Being ejected from a motorcycle can cause serious injuries or death. Since motorcycles have no seatbelts, roof, or doors to contain occupants, nearly any motorcycle accident can result in ejection injuries. Riders without helmets are much more likely to sustain fatal injuries during accidents that result in ejection than riders that wear helmets. Causes of Motorcycle Ejection The proportions of some motorcycles add a greater risk of ejection than others. If a rider attempts to stop too quickly, the bike may do a “brake dive,” and eject the driver and possibly passengers over the handlebars. This is somewhat common with inexperienced riders, and should be thoroughly explained to beginners before the first ride is ever taken. Coming suddenly to a halt to avoid hitting objects in the road or other vehicles may also cause motorcyclists of all experience levels to be ejected from motorcycles. Other scenarios that may result in a rider being ejected from a motorcycle include: A car or truck pulling out in front of a fast moving motorcycle A driver opening a door in front of a moving motorcycle Adverse weather conditions throwing off the balance of the motorcycle Potholes or debris on the road Uneven pavement and loose asphalt Being rear-ended by a larger truck in which the driver cannot see the motorcycle Motorcycle Ejection Injuries When drivers and passengers are ejected from a motorcycle, it is unfortunately the head and neck that usually bear the brunt of the impact. If there are objects in the way such as telephone poles or other vehicles, motorcyclists may collide with these objects and sustain serious ejection injuries. Back and spinal cord trauma are also common ejection injuries, as the spine often becomes compressed during the ejection impact. Any part of the body may become injured during a motorcycle ejection, depending upon the way that the rider falls. Injuries that may be sustained during a motorcycle ejection include: Broken bones Lacerations of varying degrees Severe foot and leg injuries Amputations Traumatic brain injuries Paralysis injuries Concussions Eye and facial injuries Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Many ejection injuries are the result of negligence on the part of other drivers that fail to see motorcycles and make sudden moves. If ejection injuries were caused by the negligence of another driver, motorcycle accident attorneys may be able to assist patients or their loved ones in recovering compensation from the driver that caused the accident. Motorcycle accident attorneys may assist in recovering compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain, and suffering. Sources: http://www.nhtsa.gov/PEOPLE/injury/pedbimot/motorcycle/safebike/anatomy.html...

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within the spine. Spinal stenosis can develop following nearly any kind of spinal injury from a motorcycle accident, especially compression injuries. The symptoms of spinal stenosis often worsen over time if treatment is not administered, and can include severe pain and coordination problems. If spinal stenosis has developed in the wake of a motorcycle accident that was caused by someone’s negligence or misconduct, spinal stenosis attorneys may be able to provide assistance for recovering compensation from the responsible party. Spinal Stenosis Causes Any trauma to the vertebrae or spinal cord has the potential to cause spinal stenosis. In a motorcycle accident, the spine is often compressed or injured. Injuries to vertebrae or discs can alter the alignment of the spine which can allow shifts that result in spinal stenosis. This condition may not be immediate, but can develop over time, especially as a result of other injuries. Spinal Stenosis Symptoms The narrowing of the space between vertebrae, the spinal canal, or the nerve root canals stemming from the spine can put pressure on different nerves and the spinal cord. This can cause pain and nerve complications in nearly any area of the body, depending on which nerves are affected. This can also affect the natural coordination of the body and lead to balance problems, possibly causing further injury if not treated or accommodated. Symptoms may continually worsen until treatment begins, and generally start out mild. Symptoms that may develop as a result of spinal stenosis include: Arm pain and numbness Leg pain and numbness Constant cramping in different body areas Incontinence Problems with bowel control Spinal Stenosis Effects Patients that have developed spinal stenosis as a result of a motorcycle accident may miss work or even lose employment as a result of the coordination complications and severe pain that are common symptoms. Treatment may include risky and costly surgeries, medications, and physical therapy. It may take time to diagnose spinal stenosis, during which patients may endure pain, suffering, mental anguish, and financial hardship. Spinal Stenosis Attorney A spinal stenosis attorney is familiar with the symptoms and life altering effects of spinal stenosis. Spinal stenosis lawyers understand that patients may lose wages due to the condition, and may have to continuously manage pain. Spinal Stenosis attorneys have extensive medical knowledge about the condition and can help patients successfully recover compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering that was caused by a motorcycle accident. It may be complicated to show how spinal stenosis was caused by a motorcycle accident; spinal stenosis lawyers can help patients obtain the documentation and expert testimony necessary to prove this claim. Sources: http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Spinal_Stenosis/ http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00329...

Motorcycle accidents nearly always result in injuries to the motorcyclist. Many of these injuries are severe and may cause brain trauma, paralysis, and even death. A majority of motorcycle accidents involving another vehicle are caused by the other driver. Paralysis attorneys may be able to assist victims that have been paralyzed as a result of a motorcycle accident in recovering compensation for medical costs and other damages. Paralysis Attorney Assistance A paralysis attorney has experience with paralysis injury cases and can assist victims in proving that injuries were caused by the negligence of another. Paralysis attorneys will advise victims on the information that will be most helpful to the case. This may include accident reports, medical reports, witness testimony, and expert testimony. If the accident was caused by faulty equipment on the motorcycle or other vehicle, a paralysis attorney may be able to assist with gathering information about the specific mechanism failure. Paralysis attorneys may also be helpful in finding qualified experts to testify on the victim’s behalf. Motorcyclists are often blamed for accidents based on the perception that motorcyclists are reckless. A skilled attorney will help to provide evidence that will display how the accident was truly caused. Motorcycle Paralysis Injuries Motorcycle injuries that may cause paralysis include traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries. Traumatic brain injuries may cause paralysis in different areas of the body depending on the area of the brain that was injured and the extent of the damage. Brain injuries may also affect cognitive functions to varying degrees. In some cases, the family of the victim may seek legal recourse if the victim has been incapacitated. Paralysis attorneys may be invaluable to family members that are unsure of what steps to take following a motorcycle accident that has caused paralysis. Spinal Cord Injuries Injuries to the spinal cord are typically classified as either complete or incomplete. Complete spinal injuries affect nerves below the point of injury so that both sensory and motor functions are disabled. Incomplete spinal injuries may have varying effects on the sensory and motor function below the point of injury and may result in paralysis to one or more limbs or body areas. Recovering Compensation Paralysis injuries have a severe impact on a victim’s life. Victims usually lose employment and must cover medical costs associated with the injuries. Future medical expenses, alone, can total millions of dollars. A Sports and activities that were previously enjoyed may be impossible for patients to participate in following a paralysis injury. A paralysis attorney can help patients recover costs for these expenses and lost wages, and may also be able to help recover costs for pain and suffering. Sources: http://www.cdc.gov/features/dsMotorcycleSafety/...

Neck injuries are often sustained in motorcycle accidents. The limited range of motion caused by neck injuries can be life altering. Patients may require lifelong pain management programs and costly therapy sessions to combat the effects of neck injuries. Neck injury lawyers may provide patients with advice and assistance for recovering these costs if the accident was caused by the negligence or misconduct of another person. Neck Injury Types Motorcycle accidents can cause damage to the bones, tendons, ligaments, nerves, or muscles of the neck. This damage can be permanent and lasting, and can inhibit a patient’s ability to control head and neck movements and even hold their head up. Patients may also experience swelling and bruising that can affect breathing. Due to nerve connections, patients may experience pain not just in the neck but in the jaw, ears, back, arms, hands, and fingers in some cases. Neck Injury Impact Due to the pain and mobility restrictions of neck injuries, patients may not be able to work or participate in hobbies and activities. If neck injuries cause permanent disabilities, patients may need to rely on others to help with grooming needs and daily tasks. This dependence can cause patients emotional distress that requires additional treatment. Treatments and Therapy Treatment for neck injuries often involves a combination of drug therapy, physical therapy, and relaxation techniques. Drugs may help to reduce swelling which can assist with range of motion. Drugs may also be given to help combat the pain of neck injuries. Physical therapy may help patients to regain some range of motion, as well as prevent dangerous muscle atrophy and tendon shrinkage. Relaxation techniques and massages can help patients rest strained muscles, especially following therapy sessions. Surgery Most neck injuries do not require surgery, but surgery may be necessary if other treatments are unsuccessful. Surgery is typically only done in cases where there is spinal cord compression or herniated discs. Surgeries on the neck may be risky and can further limit range of motion, in some cases. Emotional Therapy Emotional distress can cause patients to clench up in the area of the shoulders, which can further aggravate neck injuries. Emotional therapy may help patients to eliminate some of this harmful stress and work through the emotional trauma of surviving and being disabled by a motorcycle accident. A neck injury lawyer may be able to help patients include the cost of emotional therapy when seeking compensation. Neck Injury Lawyer A neck injury lawyer understands the profound impact that neck injuries can have on a patient’s life. Neck injury lawyers are experienced with the different types of neck injuries, and can help patients gather medical records, accident information, and expert testimony if necessary to prove neck injury claims. Neck injury lawyers may help patients recover damages for pain and suffering as well as medical and emotional therapy costs. Sources: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1342401/?page=1 http://www.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/pedbimot/motorcycle/motorcycle_html/appa.html...

Spinal injuries are an unfortunately common result of motorcycle accidents. Spinal injuries can cause patients to lose sensory and motor functions, which can severely impact the patient’s ability to complete daily tasks and remain gainfully employed. Patients may also suffer emotional consequences from the decrease in independence and the inability to participate in favored hobbies and activities. If a motorcycle accident spinal cord injury has been caused by the recklessness of another driver, a spinal injury attorney can help patients to hold that driver liable. Types of Spinal Injuries Damage to the spinal cord may be “complete” or “incomplete”. Complete spinal injuries disable both sensory and motor functions below the point of injury on the spine. Incomplete spinal injuries may disable some functions below the point of injury, but may leave others intact. Incomplete spinal injuries can vary in severity. Spinal Injury Complications Spinal injuries may cause the following issues: Complete or partial paralysis Respiratory complications Loss of bowel and bladder control Sexual dysfunction Loss of feeling in different body areas Inability to walk Involuntary muscle twinges Inability to use one or both arms Preventing Spinal Injuries In the past, it was thought that a helmet would cause more damage to the spine in a motorcycle accident, however studies have shown this to be untrue. Helmets protect the upper spine as well as the head in many accidents. A proper motorcycle jacket may also provide valuable support for the spine. Spinal Injury Attorney Spinal injury attorneys have a well rounded knowledge of the causes and impacts of spinal injuries, and can provide patients with advice and assistance for seeking compensation for motorcycle injuries. Whether the party at fault is the manufacturer of the motorcycle, distributor of motorcycle protective gear, or another driver that caused a motorcycle accident, a spinal injury attorney can help patients to recover compensation. Spinal cord lawyers may help to obtain payment for pain and suffering as well as medical costs. In some cases, the party at fault may also be ordered to pay punitive damages to the patient as an additional penalty to discourage similar actions in the future. Sources: http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/media/releases/motorcycle_helmets_reduce_spine_injuries_after_collisions_helmet_weight_as_risk_to_neck_called_a_myth...

Motorcycle accident injuries are much more likely to cause permanent disabilities than accidents involving other types of vehicles because of the decreased level of protection offered by motorcycles. Disabilities are often physical and mental in nature, and can severely impact a patient’s life. About two thirds of motorcycle accidents involving an automobile were caused by driver of the car. If a motorcycle accident was caused by the carelessness of another driver, an experienced motorcycle disability lawyer may be helpful in recovering costs associated with the accident. Motorcycle Accident Disabilities There are many types of severe motorcycle accident injuries that can cause permanent disability, including: Broken bones Neck injuries Spine Injuries Traumatic brain injuries Injuries to the legs and feet Amputations Impact of Disabilities In many cases, motorcycle accident disabilities cause patients to lose their primary means of income. This can make covering the costs of expensive medical treatments even more difficult. Patients may also need assistance with daily tasks and errands, and may not be able to drive. This can be frustrating and costly, as patients often need to seek the assistance of home care services. Patients may also need to have home modifications in order to accommodate equipment that is needed as a result of the disability, such as a wheelchair ramp or safety bars. Motorcycle Accident Lawsuits If a motorcycle accident was directly caused by the actions of another, it is important to hire an attorney that has extensive experience in handling motorcycle accident cases. A knowledgeable motorcycle injury lawyer will best be able to present the facts regarding the impact of any disability, the cause of the injuries, and the costs to the patient resulting from the disability. If a motorcycle accident was caused by a vehicle malfunction, a motorcycle accident lawyer will understand the steps to take in order to successfully obtain compensation from the vehicle manufacturer or parts distributor. Sources: http://www.cdc.gov/features/dsMotorcycleSafety/...

Universal helmet laws state that all motorcycle riders and motorcycle passengers must wear helmets while riding, regardless of age. Partial helmet laws define certain groups of people who are required to wear helmets while riding, such as riders below a certain age. Helmet laws vary by state, as each state imposes and regulates its own motorcycle helmet laws. Universal Helmet Laws by State As of February 2014, 19 states and the District of Columbia maintain a universal helmet law. Partial helmet laws are in place in 28 states. There are three states have no motorcycle helmet laws. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety lists each state and their current motorcycle helmet laws. Florida Motorcycle Helmet Laws Florida does not have a universal helmet law, rather it requires helmets in certain circumstances. Motorcycle riders aged 20 or younger are required to wear helmets. Those who are 21 and older who have less than $10,000 medical insurance coverage are also required to wear helmets. Universal Helmet Law Statistics Data indicates that a universal helmet law has a significant impact on helmet use and motorcycle injuries and deaths in each state. According to the CDC, enactment of a universal helmet law significantly increases the use of helmets among motorcyclists. Furthermore, repealing a universal helmet law results in a significant decrease in the use of helmets. With a decrease in helmet use comes an inevitable increase in reported motorcycle injuries and deaths. Motorcycle Accident Deaths A universal helmet law shows a direct statistical impact on the number of motorcycle deaths in each state. Findings published in the American Journal of Public Health show that universal helmet laws were associated with a reduction in motorcycle deaths by roughly 11 percent. Furthermore, states that imposed a universal helmet law then repealed the law saw an estimated 12 percent increase in motorcycle deaths. Universal Helmet Law Controversy Universal helmet laws can be a cause for controversy within a state. Those who support universal helmet law argue that more lives can be saved through helmet use. Those who oppose universal helmet law argue that mandatory helmet use may actually contribute to certain types of head and neck injuries. Additionally, many believe that mandatory helmet use is an infringement on an individual’s constitutional freedom of choice. Sources: Houston, David J., and Lilliard E. Richardson. “Motorcycle Safety and the Repeal of Universal Helmet Laws.” American Journal of Public Health. 97.11 (2007): 2063-2069. Print. “Motorcycle Safety Guide: Universal Helmet Laws Increase Helmet Use.” CDC. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13 Jun 2012. Web. 5 Feb 2014....

There are a number of technological advancements and safety features on today’s motorcycles. One of the newer developments in motorcycle performance and safety is traction control. Traction control is known for its ability to help riders manage significant horsepower. It also enhances safety in poor driving conditions. Originally designed for high-powered vehicles, traction control is a feature that is increasingly expected on new motorcycles models. What Is Traction Control? Traction is essentially the grip that tires have on the road. When there are unfavorable conditions, such as wet or sandy roads, a car or motorcycle is more likely to lose tire grip. As a result, the vehicle is likely to lose control and experience an accident. Traction control is an electronic mechanism that limits how much power a motorcycle exerts at given times. As a result, motorcycle riders are less likely to experience wheel slipping while receiving added control during acceleration. How Traction Control Works Traction control is an electronic feature that uses the wheel-speed sensor system that is used by the motorcycle’s anti-lock brake system. The sensors are designed to measure differences in the rotation speed of the motorcycle’s wheels. By measuring rotation speeds, the system can determine if the wheels that are receiving power have lost their traction. Regaining Traction If one wheel spins faster than the other, the system automatically applies the brake to that wheel. This reduces the wheel’s speed and decreases wheel slip. Some traction control systems also reduce the amount of power being supplied to the slipping wheel. The process is carefully modulated to provide just enough action for the tire to regain traction without affecting other aspects of the motorcycle’s functioning. Due to the fact that traction control systems can “piggyback” on anti-lock brake systems, the feature is commonplace in today’s motorcycles. Traction control systems are available on a wide variety of vehicles. They are designated using a series of names and acronyms. While each system may vary slightly in operation, all of these systems refer to the same type of mechanical process of detecting and preventing loss of traction while vehicles are on the road. Traction control may be recognized as the following names: Traction Control System (TCS) Traction Control (TC) Electronic Traction Control (ETC) Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Electronic Stability Program...

Traumatic brain injury, or TBI, is any kind of brain injury that is caused by impact to the head or piercing of the brain. Traumatic brain injuries are some of the most common injuries caused by motorcycle accidents. About 50 percent of traumatic brain injuries from motorcycle accidents are fatal. A motorcycle accident lawyer may help motorcycle accident victims receive compensation for injuries arising from the accident. Brain Damage Brain damage occurs when brain cells are damaged or destroyed. The effects of brain damage may vary depending on the area of the brain that is impacted and severity of the damage. Moderate to severe brain damage may respond to treatment, but is likely to cause permanent disabilities. Even a mild traumatic brain injury can result in permanent damage. Symptoms caused by brain injury may include: Confusion Disorientation Memory loss Loss of certain motor functions Loss of certain sensory functions Loss of certain cognitive functions Behavioral changes Dizziness Nausea Paralysis Personality Changes Diffuse Axonal Injury DAIs or diffuse axonal injuries are injuries to more than one area of the brain. Patients that have DAIs are much more likely to end up in a coma or vegetative state. Even if patients are successfully awakened from a coma state, basic skills may need to be relearned and patients may never regain certain functions. Traumatic Brain Injury Costs Traumatic brain injuries can result in high medical bills and therapy costs. Home modifications may be required, which can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance. This financial burden may be further increased if the patient is unable to work and receive wages to help mitigate these costs. Motorcycle accident lawyers may be able to assist patients or their loved ones in seeking compensation for these expenses, financial loss; as well as pain, suffering and long term consequences of the injury. Brain Injury Attorney When filing a claim against an individual for traumatic brain injuries that have been caused by a motorcycle accident, it is important to find an attorney that has experience in dealing with these types of cases. A brain injury attorney is highly trained to understand both the medical and legal aspects of a traumatic brain injury case. This specialized knowledge will allow a brain injury attorney to best explain to a judge or court the full impact that a traumatic brain injury has had on a patient’s life. This can be helpful when seeking compensation for pain and suffering as well as medical costs and lost wages. Sources: https://www.east.org/resources/treatment-guidelines/helmet-efficacy-to-reduce-head-injury-and-mortality-in-motorcycle-crashes http://www.motorcycleaccident.org/motorcycle-accidents-and-head-injuries/...