Injuries Bikers Sustain in Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents remain a significant concern on roads worldwide. According to recent statistics, they account for a substantial portion of vehicular injuries and fatalities. In the United States alone, motorcyclists are about 28 times more likely to die in a crash than car occupants.
Here is a broad overview of the injuries you could suffer in a biking accident.
1. Road Rash
Road rash refers to skin abrasion caused by direct contact with a rough surface during a motorcycle accident. It occurs when the rider's body slides across the pavement. The friction removes layers of skin, potentially leading to deeper tissue exposure.
Road rash varies in severity. Minor cases involve redness and swelling, only affecting the skin's surface. Moderate road rash leads to bleeding and deeper skin abrasions, sometimes creating raw patches. Severe cases reach multiple skin layers, exposing underlying muscle and fat, increasing the risk of infection and significant scarring. Complications may include nerve damage, persistent pain, and delayed wound healing.
2. Fractures and Broken Bones
Motorcycle accidents often result in fractures and broken bones due to the high-impact forces involved. Commonly fractured bones include the collarbone, wrists, hands, arms, and legs. The collarbone frequently fractures because riders instinctively extend their arms during a fall, transmitting force to the upper body. Wrist and hand fractures occur when riders break their fall with their hands, absorbing the impact. Leg and arm bones also bear significant stress during crashes, leading to breaks or fractures.
Fractures and broken bones have serious long-term impacts. Recovery involves immobilizing the affected area, often requiring casts or splints. Severe fractures may need surgical intervention involving pins, plates, or screws to ensure proper healing. Limited mobility and persistent pain frequently accompany the recovery process, sometimes leading to months of rehabilitation.
3. Head and Brain Injuries
Motorcycle accidents frequently lead to head and brain injuries. These injuries pose severe consequences for riders. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) result from sudden, forceful impacts on the skull, causing the brain to collide with the cranial walls. This contact can lead to bruising, bleeding, and nerve fiber damage. Concussions, contusions, and skull fractures often accompany TBIs, with varying degrees of severity.
Traumatic brain injuries carry the potential for long-term cognitive effects. Many victims face challenges in memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. Emotional and behavioral changes frequently occur, affecting quality of life. Chronic headaches, dizziness, and impaired motor function further complicate recovery.
4. Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries often result from high-impact motorcycle crashes. These injuries occur when the vertebrae fracture or dislocate, compressing or severing the spinal cord. Common spinal cord injuries include cervical, thoracic, and lumbar fractures, with varying levels of severity depending on the impact location.
Paralysis often accompanies these injuries. Cervical spine damage may lead to quadriplegia, affecting limbs and trunk control. Thoracic or lumbar injuries typically result in paraplegia, impairing leg movement and lower body functions. Additional outcomes include chronic pain, loss of sensation, and impaired autonomic functions, significantly impacting quality of life.
5. Internal Injuries
Internal injuries present significant risks in motorcycle accidents. They include organ damage and internal bleeding. High-speed impacts can rupture or puncture internal organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys. Internal bleeding may occur without visible external injuries, complicating the initial diagnosis.
The severity of internal injuries varies. Some injuries might appear minor initially but can worsen. The lack of visible signs makes detection challenging. Subtle symptoms like abdominal pain, dizziness, or fainting may indicate internal issues. Rapid diagnosis is crucial, as delays in treatment can lead to complications or fatalities.
Contacting an Attorney After a Motorcycle Accident
After experiencing a motorcycle accident, contacting an attorney is a vital step in protecting your rights and securing the compensation you may be entitled to. An experienced can provide invaluable guidance through the legal process. They assist in gathering critical evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing your interests in court if necessary.
Quick action is crucial, as legal statutes may impose time limitations on filing claims. Consulting an attorney promptly helps ensure that your case is handled efficiently, maximizing your chances for a favorable outcome. If successful, your claim can ease the financial burdens associated with medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, Brett H. Oppenheimer, PLLC can help. Our team is available online or by phone at (502) 242-8877, so schedule a free consultation with us today.