Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles are often described as one of the most dangerous vehicles on the road. This reputation really doesn’t have anything to do with how likely it is that a motorcycle accident will occur, but rather with how severe the damages are likely to be in the event that an accident does take place. Motorcycle accidents can result in catastrophic injuries and severe financial losses. The damages of a motorcycle accident tend to be more significant than those of an automobile accident because the motorcycle provides no protection to the rider. If a motorcyclist makes contact with another vehicle or object, they will take the brunt of the collision. The attorneys at Reed & Terry, LLP, have a great deal of experience representing victims of motorcycle accidents. They understand the most common injuries in motorcycle accidents and are ready to help our Sugar Land, TX, clients fight for compensation for the losses associated with those injuries.
Road Rash
Road rash is a term commonly used to describe the skin damage that occurs when a motorcycle rider is thrown from their bike and drags along the ground. Many people think of road rash as light scratching or bruising, but this condition can be much more serious than that. In severe cases, road rash can damage the deeper layers of the skin and may even lead to infection or nerve damage. Protective gear such as gloves, leather jackets, and pants, are meant to protect the skin from road rash, but if the motorcycle is traveling at high speeds at the time of the accident, or the rider is dragged for a long distance, this gear can be destroyed and the tissue underneath may still suffer.
Broken Bones
Unless a motorcycle accident is very minor, the rider is likely to be thrown from their bike at the time of the collision. This type of impact commonly leads to broken bones. In most cases, a broken bone can be set and repaired fairly easily. However, some fractures may require surgery to repair. Depending on what bones are broken and the severity of the fracture, broken bones could lead to other complications such as internal bleeding or organ damage. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent broken bones in a motorcycle accident, riders can minimize the risk by wearing appropriate protective gear, including motorcycle boots and a helmet.
Spine and Neck Injuries
Unfortunately, it is common for severe motorcycle accidents to lead to neck and spinal cord injuries. These catastrophic injuries can have life-altering consequences. Most notably, spinal cord injuries or damage to the bones in the neck are known to cause partial or full paralysis. A person with these injuries can lose sensation and control of movement at any point below the site of the injury.
Head Injuries
A helmet is the most important piece of protective gear for motorcyclists. Although a motorcycle helmet absorbs the shock of an accident to minimize damage, head injuries can still occur. Common head injuries following a motorcycle accident include concussion and traumatic brain injury. These injuries can lead to confusion, impaired cognitive skills, and even a change in behaviors or temperament. Whether a motorcyclist loses consciousness or not after an accident, it is important that they seek medical attention as soon as possible to rule out any brain trauma.
Contact Us
If you have suffered any injuries in a motorcycle accident that was caused by the reckless or negligent actions of another driver, you may be due compensation for your losses. Contact us at your earliest convenience to set up a personal consultation with the experienced attorneys at Reed & Terry, LLP.
