What Are Some of the Most Common Injuries Sustained in a Motorcycle Accident?

The road is always an unpredictable place, and motorcycle riders are especially vulnerable to the dangers that exist there. This largely has to do with the fact that bikes offer very little protection to those who are on them – and in the event of an accident, riders can easily be thrown from their vehicles and sustain serious injuries.

Reports these days indicate that motorcycle accidents are on the rise in recent years, so riders need to be aware of the risks. And while no one wants to think about being involved in an accident, it’s crucial to know what kind of injuries you could potentially face so that you can be better prepared if the worst should happen.

Legally, you can recover damages for any injuries you sustain in an accident – whether they are physical, emotional, or financial. And while no amount of money can ever truly make up for the pain and suffering you may endure; it can help to ease the financial burden that often comes with medical bills and other accident-related expenses. The experienced motorcycle accident lawyers at Kogan & DiSalvo in Boca Raton, FL have provided a few of the most common motorcycle accident injuries that you should be fully aware of.

Road rash

Unlike cars, motorcycles don’t have seatbelts or airbags to help keep riders in place during an accident. This means that riders can be easily thrown from their bikes, and if they come into contact with the pavement, they can sustain serious road rash injuries. Road rash happens as a result of the skin being scraped away by the force of the impact, exposing the underlying tissue. In more severe cases, it can result in nerve damage, infection, and even amputation.

Broken bones

When a motorcycle rider is involved in an accident, they can easily suffer broken bones. This is because there is nothing to absorb the impact of the fall except for the riders’ bodies. Commonly broken bones sustained in motorcycle accidents include fractures to the arms, legs, and ribs. In severe cases, riders can also suffer from broken necks and backs.

Internal bleeding

Internal bleeding occurs in an accident when the force of impact causes blood vessels to rupture and bleed internally. It can be difficult to identify, as any external signs of injury may not be apparent. However, internal bleeding can cause severe organ damage and even fatality when not immediately attended to.

Head injuries

Head injuries are also common in motorcycle accidents, as riders often don’t have helmets or other protective gear to safeguard their heads. Even a minor head injury can result in a concussion or other brain damage, while more severe injuries can lead to coma and even death.

Spinal cord injuries

These injuries happen when the force of the impact damages the spinal cord, which can lead to paralysis. Paralysis can range from partial to complete and can affect any part of the body below the site of the injury. These injuries are often permanent and can have an immense impact on a person’s life.

Whiplash

These injuries occur when the head is thrown forward or backward suddenly, and violently. This can damage the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck, and can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. In some cases, whiplash can also cause headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Although it is a more common injury in car accidents, it can also occur in motorcycle accidents.

Treatment For Injuries

The type of treatment required for injuries sustained will depend on the severity of the injuries. Mostly, minor injuries can be fixed with over-the-counter medication and ample rest. More serious injuries, however, will require emergency medical treatment. This may include hospitalization, surgery, and rehabilitation. In some cases, the injuries can be permanently disabling.

What To Do After a Motorcycle Crash

Start by assessing your injuries. If you can, move to a safer spot away from oncoming traffic. Also, check on the condition of the other rider or riders involved in the accident. It’s important to render aid if necessary and to call for emergency medical assistance if needed. If someone else hasn’t done so already, call the police. If there were witnesses to the accident, get their contact information so that they can give their account of what happened. Ensure you also get the contact information of the other rider or riders involved in the crash, and exchange insurance information. Taking pictures of the accident scene, as well as any injuries you may have sustained, will also help document the accident and your injuries. Engaging a motorcycle accident lawyer is always beneficial, as they will be of invaluable assistance when navigating the legal process and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Conclusion

Motorcycle accidents often result in a variety of injuries. Some common injuries sustained include broken bones, internal bleeding, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, whiplash, and road rash. Treatment for these injuries will vary depending on their severity but may include hospitalization, surgery, and rehabilitation. Therefore, legal options might be necessary to ensure you’re compensated -especially if the accident wasn’t solely your fault.

Categories: Health

Nicolas Desjardins

Hello everyone, I am the main writer for SIND Canada. I've been writing articles for more than 12 years and I like sharing my knowledge. I'm currently writing for many websites and newspapers. I always keep myself very informed to give you the best information. All my years as a computer scientist made me become an incredible researcher. You can contact me on our forum or by email at [email protected].