The lack of structural protection on a motorcycle makes it extremely dangerous in the event of a crash. This is why riders are always advised to wear gear and helmets. As a motorcycle rider or any other road user, understanding the types of injuries that can arise from these accidents is essential. This article explores common damages and injuries in motorcycle accidents.  

Head Injuries

Head bruises are common in motorcycle accidents. Here are some typical examples:

• Concussion: This is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head
• Skull fracture: This refers to a fracture of the skull that can be open when the skin is broken or closed, depending on the nature of the motorcycle accident
• Contusions: These are injuries to the tissues of the brain due to the impact of the crash
• Traumatic Brain Injuries- These range from a mild concussion to severe TBIs with symptoms like prolonged headaches, memory loss, and cognitive problems

Given the severe nature of brain injuries, motorcycle riders are advised to wear helmets at all times. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, helmets are 37% effective in preventing death and head injuries for motorcycle riders and 44% effective for their passengers. If you or someone you know has been injured and is looking for legal representation, consider speaking to personal injury attorney Russell Berkowitz.

Fractures and Spinal Cord Injuries

Injuries caused by motorcycle accidents range from minor dislocations to fractures of critical bones and even injuries to the spinal cord. While dislocations tend to be minor injuries with a relatively short recovery time, the same cannot be said about spinal cord injuries. The side effects of a spinal cord injury can be profoundly life-altering. For example, conditions such as paralysis and stroke, which can result from spinal cord injuries, may result in permanent immobility. Thankfully, personal injury compensation is designed to reimburse all the costs associated with treatment, including physiotherapy and other rehabilitative treatments. 

Road Rash

As mentioned earlier, the only safety gear to cushion motorcycle riders in an accident is their gear and helmet. Road rash is a painful injury that happens when the impact throws you off your bike, and you skid across the tarmac or pavement, causing your skin to come into direct contact with the hard road surface. 

• First-degree road rash: This is the mildest form and can feel like a severe sunburn. It is characterized by red, irritated skin. 
• Second-degree road rash: This is more severe and painful. The skin is more irritated and broken, with debris embedded in the wound. It has a higher risk of infection.
• Third-degree road rash: This is the most severe form of road rash. The wound typically penetrates through all layers of the skin, exposing underlying muscles and tendons, sometimes even the bone.

Given the severity and pain associated with road rash, it’s important for riders to always adorn their safety gear. 

Emotional Pain and Suffering

The aftermath of an accident is often a rollercoaster of emotions. You may have to deal with new changes in your life, including the loss of mobility, the fear of motorcycles, and, equally, the worry over how you will live your new life. 

As someone affected by an accident, you are entitled to claim for any pain and emotional distress the experience may have caused you. An attorney will assist you in computing this and include it in your summative claim.

Other Entitlements

Besides compensation for pain and suffering, you are well within your rights to claim for various other entitlements arising from the accident. They include:

• Property damage: Any damages occasioned to your motorcycle render it unusable.
• Medical Expenses: The essence of getting elaborate medical care lies in claiming all the sums spent on medical care.
• Loss of Future Earnings: Your immobility may have impeded you from making financial strides, which is well captured within your entitlements.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident or sustained injuries, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a qualified personal injury attorney to discuss your specific case. Laws and regulations regarding motorcycle accidents and personal injury claims may vary by jurisdiction, and an attorney can help you understand your rights and potential compensation options.

Published by Jeremy S.