Motorcycle accidents are all too common, and they often result in serious injuries. While helmets and other safety gear can help minimize the risk of injury, the exposed nature of motorcycle riders means they are still vulnerable to being thrown from their bikes or striking an object.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are four times more likely to be injured in a motor vehicle accident. This short guide will look at some of the most common motorcycle injuries.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are one of the most common injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents. While helmets can help to reduce the risk of TBI, a recent study found that helmet use decreased from 69% in 2020 to 64.9% in 2021.
One common cause of TBI in motorcycle accidents is a blunt blow to the head, which occurs when the head strikes an object, such as the ground or a windshield. TBI can also result from penetration injuries (known as PBI), which occur when an object penetrates the skull and enters the brain. Symptoms of TBI can range from memory loss to paralysis, disorientation, and memory loss.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries occur when the driver is thrown from the motorcycle and hits their head on the ground, causing the vertebrae to compress. Bikers may also experience extreme muscle spasms, and an unnatural fall may result in unstable back and neck joints and ligament damage. In some cases, the vertebrae and soft tissue could tear, resulting in hemorrhaging and paralysis.
Road Rash
Road rash occurs when the skin comes into contact with the road surface. The friction can cause the outer layer of skin to tear, exposing the underlying tissue to bacteria and other contaminants.
Road rash is categorized as burns, from first degree to third. First-degree road rash is when the skin’s surface is red and irritated. Second-degree road rash is when the skin breaks, but the inner layers remain intact. Third-degree road rash is when the skin rubs off completely, exposing the fat and tissues.
Lower Extremity Injuries
The most common lower-extremity injuries include fractures, dislocations, and sprains. These injuries can be extremely painful and often require extensive medical treatment. These injuries are common because riders often have their feet and legs dangling below the bike, leaving them vulnerable to being struck by oncoming traffic or debris. Lacerations and Achilles tendon injuries can result from lower-extremity trauma as well.
Upper Extremity Injuries
Upper extremity injuries involve upper body parts such as shoulders, elbows, or wrists. These injuries can occur when the rider is thrown from the motorcycle and lands on their arm or hand. During an accident, most people brace themselves and use their arms to protect themselves.
Using your arms can cause shoulder injuries, broken arms, or broken fingers. It may also cause biker’s arm, which is a very severe injury. A motorcycle accident may also cause permanent nerve damage to your upper body.
Internal Bleeding
Because the human body is largely composed of water, even a small amount of blood loss can significantly impact health. Internal bleeding can occur when the force of impact ruptures blood vessels.
In some cases, the bleeding may be obvious, but in others, it may be hidden internally. Symptoms of internal bleeding include pain, dizziness, and nausea. If internal bleeding is not treated promptly, it can lead to shock and death.
If your motorcycle injuries were the result of someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to compensation. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling motorcycle accident claims, and we can help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today at Frenkel & Frenkel for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and help you understand your legal options.