Motorcycle riders are at a greater risk of serious injury in a crash because of the obvious lack of protection. To make matters worse, motorcycles are much smaller and lighter than passenger cars, making them harder to see on the road.
Understanding motorcycle injuries is the first step to taking the appropriate steps to secure compensation. This article will provide information about the 10 most common injuries in a motorcycle accident. Law Office of Carl Maltese can also explain common injuries in a truck accident.
An Overview of the Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
The following injuries are often seen in these motor vehicle accidents:
Lower Extremity Injuries
These injuries are the most common in motorcycle accidents. Lower extremity injuries affect the body from below the waist. They are incredibly common in motorcycle crashes because the rider's legs are often exposed while they are riding the two-wheel vehicle.
When a crash occurs, the motorbike, which weighs hundreds of pounds, can fall on top of the rider's legs, crushing them. In addition to the legs, the feet, ankles, knees, and calves may also be affected.
Injuries to the lower extremities can be life-changing, taking a long time to heal or even resulting in permanent disability.
Broken bones typically require surgery to correct, and in some cases, multiple surgeries are necessary in order for the victim to make a full recovery.
Upper Extremity Injuries
When a person is about to fall, they typically use their hands instinctively to lessen the blow. This often happens in a crash situation. Because the motorcycle rider's arms are exposed, injury to them is a lot more likely. Like lower extremity injuries, these wounds can be life-changing and affect a person's ability to work and earn an income.
Road Rash
This is another commonly observed injury following a motorcycle accident. That's because the lack of protection in a crash can cause the rider's skin to come into contact with the road, causing friction.
While it may sound harmless, it's important to remember that severe road rash is not the average skin injury. It can lead to major problems, such as infections or even damage to nerves. Wearing protective clothing can help to lessen the severity.
Spinal Injuries
The force of impact can also cause damage to the spine. Sadly, these injuries often have serious consequences, leading to paralysis, chronic pain, nerve damage, and sometimes even death.
Head and Neck Injuries
Head injuries are also common in motorcycle crashes. Whiplash and cervical spine fractures are also common following a crash, particularly in those who do not wear helmets. A neck or head injury can be extremely devastating, leading to permanent disability, paralysis, cognitive impairment, chronic pain, and facial injuries.
Internal Bleeding
This phenomenon occurs when a blood vessel is damaged because of an external force. Internal bleeding isn't always easily visible from the outside, which is why it is important for victims to seek medical attention if they have been involved in a motorcycle accident.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
A traumatic brain injury can occur when an external force causes brain dysfunction. It is a leading cause of death in motorcycle accidents and can result when the head is bumped, jolted, or penetrated.
According to New York law, all riders and passengers on a motorcycle are required to wear helmets when the vehicle is in motion. These helmets must meet the regulatory standards set by the Department of Transport. Failure to do so could put a rider's life at risk.
Statistics show that the use of a helmet is likely to reduce the likelihood of a traumatic brain injury by 35%.
Chest Injuries
Broken ribs are common in motorcycle accidents and can cause serious consequences. These bones can pierce other organs, causing blood loss, respiratory distress, and other problems.
Why Do Motorcycle Accidents Often Lead to Serious Injuries?
There are a number of reasons why motorcycle accidents often have devastating and life-changing consequences. Firstly, motorcyclists are vulnerable because motorcycles do not have airbags, doors, or an outer metal shell like passenger cars do.
This means that when the vehicle collides with another, the rider is at greater risk of being hurt. Because there are no safety barriers, even small crashes can cause serious injuries. The risk of serious injury is further increased by the fast speeds and lack of stability when compared to four-wheeled vehicles. For more information, the best motorcycle accident attorney in Long Island may be able to help.
In addition, the frequency and seriousness of accidents are influenced by the fact that motorcycles are small and are often missed by other drivers. Although some injuries can be lessened by protective gear like helmets and padded clothing, motorcycle riders still face a significantly higher risk overall than other motor vehicle occupants.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash
It's important for victims to know what to do after a motorcycle accident to not only ensure the success of their personal injury claim but also ensure that they are able to get the medical care and assistance that they need.
The first thing that an injured person should do is call 911. Law enforcement will contact emergency services and complete a police report that can be used as proof in a legal claim. It's important that riders seek medical attention after a crash, even if they feel fine, as the symptoms of some injuries may only be experienced later.
If possible, riders should try to get as much information from the accident scene as possible. The contact details of key witnesses and the motorists involved, as well as video and photographs from the scene, can be crucial.
Finally, the injured party should consult an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to obtain sound legal advice on how to proceed. They can also advise on common injuries in a bicycle accident.
Final Thoughts
Motorcycle accident victims are often left to pick up the pieces of their lives after an accident. Although these two-wheel vehicles do expose riders to more risk than passenger cars, it's important to remember that all motorists have a duty to ensure that their actions do not endanger the life of another.
When negligence causes a motorcycle crash, injured motorcyclists have the right to compensation. The Law Office of Carl Maltese is committed to providing victims with dependable legal representation.
With over 58 years of experience winning settlements for our clients, we are confident that we can assist, no matter how complex the case.
Motorcycle accident victims can contact us for assistance!
Kommentare