Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle accidents may cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe. Cars provide a protective enclosure that motorcycles do not, so motorcycles are exposed to direct impacts during collisions. The injuries sustained can be life-altering and often require extensive medical treatment. Common examples include upper extremity injuries and neck injuries.

Reviewing these risks and the types of injuries commonly seen can help riders prepare. These safety measures might prevent some of the worst outcomes.

At Davidoff Law, we advocate for motorcycle riders injured in accidents. We know that even common motorcycle accident injuries can be life-changing. Always see a doctor for serious injuries first. Then, contact us to schedule a free case consultation.

What Makes Motorcyclists So Vulnerable?

Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable in traffic due to their small size and lack of protective barriers compared to cars. This exposure means that motorcycle riders are more likely to be thrown from their bikes during a collision, leading to more severe injuries. Visibility is also a major issue, as motorcycles can easily slip into a car's blind spots.

These factors make motorcyclists much more likely than car occupants to die in a motor vehicle collision per vehicle mile traveled.

Another layer of risk comes from road conditions. Hazards such as potholes, wet or icy surfaces, and road debris that might be minor annoyances to car drivers can be deadly for a motorcyclist.

The physical demands of controlling a motorcycle also mean that rider fatigue and reaction times can greatly influence accident outcomes. Furthermore, without physical barriers, motorcyclists have no protection from direct impacts with vehicles or the road.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Injuries from motorcycle accidents are often serious due to high-speed collision and the exposed position of the rider. These injuries often range from minor to catastrophic, affecting various body parts.

Head Injuries

Concussions.

Concussions can occur even if the motorcyclist is wearing a helmet due to the brain shaking inside the skull upon crash. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, and memory loss.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

More severe impacts can cause traumatic brain injuries, which can lead to long-term cognitive issues, emotional instability, and physical impairments. Helmets reduce the risk but do not eliminate it entirely.

Skull fractures.

The force of a crash can fracture the skull, potentially causing brain damage. These injuries need emergency medical attention and can result in prolonged or permanent disability.

Facial injuries.

Without a full-face helmet, motorcyclists can suffer serious facial injuries, including fractures, lacerations, and jaw injuries. These catastrophic injuries could require surgical intervention to repair.

Dental injuries.

Trauma to the face can result in broken or lost teeth and other serious dental issues that may need extensive and expensive dental work.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal injuries are catastrophic and can change a victim's life in an instant. Damage to the spinal cord might result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on where along the spine the injury occurs.

These injuries can prevent motorcyclists from returning to their pre-accident lifestyle and may require lifelong medical care and assistance.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Collarbone and shoulder injuries.

These are common due to the body's natural response to fall on the side, protecting the more vulnerable torso and head.

Arm and wrist fractures.

Riders often extend their arms to catch themselves during a fall, leading to broken arms and wrists.

Leg injuries.

The legs are particularly vulnerable in motorcycle crashes, with injuries ranging from broken knees to crushed legs.

Pelvic fractures.

High-impact crashes can result in pelvic fractures, which are painful and require a long recovery period.

Rib and chest injuries.

These injuries are severe because they can also affect the lungs and other vital organs. Safety equipment can help reduce the severity of these injuries.

Road Rash and Severe Skin Abrasions

Road rash occurs when a rider skids across the pavement, tearing off layers of skin. This injury can range from mild, similar to a scrape, to severe, where multiple layers of skin are removed, exposing muscles and bones.

Road rash is extremely painful, can lead to serious infections, and requires skin grafts. In scope and severity, road rash is similar to burn injuries.

Internal Injuries and Organ Damage

Internal injuries, such as bleeding or organ damage, are less visible but can be life-threatening. The force of trauma might cause internal bleeding and harm to organs like the liver, kidneys, or spleen.

These injuries often require surgery and prolonged hospital stays. Rapid medical attention is critical to diagnose and treat these conditions before they become fatal.

Factors That Contribute to Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Speed.

Higher speeds boost the severity of injuries in accidents due to the greater force of the crash.

Lack of helmet use.

Not wearing a helmet or a non-compliant helmet greatly increases the risk of head injuries.

Lack of protective gear.

Besides helmets, other protective gear like jackets, gloves, and boots might considerably reduce the risk of injuries like road rash and fractures.

Riding experience.

Inexperienced riders might not safely handle their bikes in emergencies, leading to more severe accidents.

Alcohol use.

Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs harms judgment and slows reaction times, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Always Seek Emergency Medical Treatment for Motorcycle Accident Injuries

If you are involved in a motorcycle collision, seek medical treatment immediately, even if you think you are not seriously injured.

Some injuries, like internal bleeding or head injuries, may not be immediately apparent. Early medical intervention can be critical to recovery and provide critical documentation for any insurance or legal claims.

You must follow through with all prescribed treatments and keep detailed records of all medical visits, treatments, and related expenses. These documents are critical for insurance claims and any legal action you might consider.

Legal Options After a Motorcycle Accident

After a motorcycle crash, you should have several legal options depending on the circumstances of the crash.

If another party's negligence caused the accident, you could claim damages. This compensation can cover medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The legal process can be complex, especially when insurance companies try to minimize your compensation. You must know your rights and understand the best action to take.

How a Lawyer Can Help With Motorcycle Accident Injury Claims

• Legal expertise. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can offer the expertise to address complex legal and insurance issues effectively.
• Maximizing your compensation. A lawyer will partner with you to ensure you recover full compensation for your injuries, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Negotiating with insurance companies. Attorneys know how to negotiate with insurance companies to get you the fairest deal possible.
• Court representation. If your case goes to court, having a lawyer by your side can greatly increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
• Handling all legal aspects. Your attorney will address all aspects of your claim, letting you focus on your health without the stress of legal proceedings.

Contact Our Manhattan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer To Schedule a Free Case Consultation

If you or someone you know has been hurt in a motorcycle accident, don't hesitate to contact Davidoff Law for a free case consultation. Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys are here to help you review your rights and go through your legal options.

We are committed to providing motorcycle accident victims with comprehensive and effective legal representation. We even assist riders who have suffered a serious injury, such as a head injury.

Contact our motorcycle injury attorneys for a free case consultation.