Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

When it comes to modes of transportation in the United States, motorcycles are the most deadly. In fact, an estimated 80% of reported motorcycle crashes result in injury or death. If motorcycle riding in your hobby or your outlet to feel exhilarated and free, you should know the serious risks that you are taking on every time you rev your engine on the open road.

Why are Motorcycles Dangerous?

It is not hard to understand why motorcycle occupants are at a much higher risk of injury compared to the driver or passenger of a car. Motorcyclists are not only smaller but they are highly exposed. They do not have safety features to protect them, such as a steel frame, air bag, cameras or crash sensors. To make matters worse, most motorcycle injuries occur from a collision with a car or truck, not just another motorcycle. The outweighed force, density and size of such accidents can leave motorcyclists seriously injured – if they survive at all. If you do get injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to contact an attorney to learn about your rights.

Types of Motorcycle Injuries

Most motorcycle injuries are not mild, even if it simply involved the pavement and the motorcyclist. The most common types of injuries involve the following:

Brain Injuries
Even motorcyclists that wear helmets are subject to serious head or brain injury. Damages to the brain can be permanent, catastrophic and impact the future of you function and daily life. Brain injuries can range from concussions to contusions, but all head trauma needs immediate and potentially extensive medical treatment.

Spine Injuries
Spine injuries include fractures to the vertebra of the spine, slipped/herniated discs or a devastating crushing of the spine. Since the nerves of the spine determine movement in our extremities, spinal injuries are not only painful, but they can also be paralyzing.

Road Rash
Road rash refers to the damage that occurs on the skin when a motorcyclist is thrown onto the ground and slides across the pavement in response to the impact. Road rash is more than a “rash.” It can involve layers of removed skin that leave bone and nerves painfully exposed.

Loss of Limb
When a catastrophic motorcycle accident occurs, a loss of limb is not uncommon. Amputations can elicit significant physical pain and lasting emotional distress. Extensive and even life-long medical assistance is often needed.

Were you or a loved one injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another person’s negligence? Attorney Darrell T. Farr is a personal injury lawyer who understands how to defend motorcycle accident victims. Call our Stockbridge motorcycle accident lawyers today so that we can explain the extent of compensation you may be entitled to.