Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

A 2021 study found that upper extremity injuries comprise 35% of motorcycle crash injuries.

The researchers discovered that patients with these injuries are likely to have lower mortality but have increased needs for rehabilitation care after discharge.

Upper extremity injuries involve the arms, hands, wrists, and shoulders, while lower extremity injuries involve the legs, feet, ankles, and hips.

These are general types of injuries that can occur in a motorcycle accident.

Some specific motorcycle crash injuries are more common than others.

Common motorcycle accident injuries include:

• Road rash
• Fractures and broken bones
• Head and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal injuries
• Soft tissue injuries
• Amputations
• Psychological injuries

Road Rash

Road rash is one of the most common injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents.

It often occurs when a motorcyclist loses control of their bike or collides with another vehicle, resulting in them being ejected from the motorcycle and sliding across the pavement.

The force of impact — combined with the rough surface of the road — causes layers of skin to be scraped off, resulting in open wounds.

The severity of road rash can vary significantly.

In minor cases, the injury may involve superficial scrapes that heal within a few weeks.

In more severe cases, road rash can cause deep wounds that expose muscle or bone, requiring skin grafts and extensive medical care.

Severe road rash can lead to permanent scarring, chronic pain, infection, and permanent nerve damage.

These injuries can have long-term effects on the victim’s quality of life, potentially leading to psychological trauma as well.

Fractures and Broken Bones

Fractures and broken bones are common in motorcycle crashes, usually affecting the arms, legs, wrists, and ribs.

These injuries typically occur when a motorcyclist is thrown from their bike and lands forcefully on the ground or when they collide with another vehicle or a fixed object.

The impact can easily break bones, especially in the limbs, which are often the first to hit the ground.

The severity of these motorcycle injuries can range from simple fractures that heal with minimal medical intervention to compound fractures that require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.

Broken ribs, in particular, can lead to complications such as punctured lungs or internal bleeding.

In severe cases, fractures can result in permanent disability, chronic pain, and a reduced ability to perform daily activities.

Recovery times can be long, often requiring physical therapy, and the victim may be unable to work during this period, leading to significant financial strain.

Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are some of the most severe injuries that can result from motorcycle accidents.

These injuries range from mild concussions to skull fractures to severe brain damage that can have lifelong consequences.

A head injury typically occurs when a motorcyclist’s head makes direct contact with the ground, another vehicle, or a fixed object.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and the risk of head injury by 69% for motorcycle riders.

Even when wearing a motorcycle helmet, the force of impact can cause the brain to move within the skull.

The severity of head injuries can vary greatly.

A mild concussion may cause temporary symptoms such as headaches and dizziness, while a severe traumatic brain injury can result in long-term cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes, and even coma or death.

TBIs can also lead to significant medical costs, including long-term care and rehabilitation.

Victims may experience permanent brain damage that impacts their ability to work, care for themselves, or maintain relationships, leading to a profound effect on their quality of life.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating injuries sustained in motorcycle crashes.

These injuries often result from high-impact collisions, where the force of the accident causes damage to the vertebrae and the spinal cord itself.

Falls from the motorcycle or direct impact on the rider’s back can also lead to these injuries.

The severity of spinal cord injuries can range from minor damage — which may cause temporary loss of sensation or motor function — to severe injuries that result in permanent paralysis.

Injuries to the spinal cord can lead to paraplegia or quadriplegia, depending on the location and extent of the damage.

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term care.

The financial, emotional, and physical impact of spinal cord injuries is immense, often necessitating significant lifestyle changes and ongoing medical care.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries are less visible than other types of injuries but can be equally or more life-threatening.

These injuries often result from blunt force trauma during a motorcycle crash.

The impact of the collision can cause organ rupture, internal bleeding, and other complications, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent, making them even more dangerous.

The severity of internal injuries can vary depending on the organs affected and the extent of the damage.

Internal injuries may require emergency surgery to repair the damage and stop internal bleeding.

These injuries can lead to long-term health issues, including organ failure or chronic pain.

Victims with internal injuries may face prolonged recovery times, significant medical expenses, and a risk of long-term complications.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries — such as sprains, strains, and muscle tears — are common in motorcycle accidents.

These injuries affect the muscles, ligaments, and tendons and can cause significant pain and mobility issues.

Soft tissue injuries often occur as a result of the force and impact of a motorcycle crash.

When a rider is thrown from their bike or collides with another vehicle, their body may be subjected to sudden and unnatural movements that can stretch or tear soft tissues.

The severity of soft tissue injuries can vary, but they can significantly impact a person’s ability to perform daily activities, work, or enjoy hobbies.

While these injuries may not be life-threatening, they can still cause long-term pain and discomfort if not properly treated.

Amputations

In severe motorcycle crashes, riders may suffer traumatic amputations, where limbs become severed during the accident.

Amputations can also occur as a result of medical intervention when a limb is too damaged to be saved.

A rider’s legs may be severed at the scene of the crash or later amputated due to severe injuries.

Amputations can severely impact a person’s physical and emotional well-being.

In addition to losing a part of their body, amputees may face challenges such as phantom limb pain, limited mobility, and difficulties with prosthetic devices.

These injuries also require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, which can be expensive and time-consuming.

Psychological Injuries

In addition to physical injuries, motorcycle accident victims may also suffer from psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

The emotional toll of a brutal accident can be profound, impacting the victim’s mental health and overall well-being.

Psychological injuries can significantly impact a person’s ability to return to daily activities, work, or even leave home.

These injuries may require therapy, medication, and other forms of treatment to manage the symptoms and improve the victim’s quality of life.

Types of Motorcycle Accidents and Related Injuries

There are many different types of motorcycle accidents, each with its own unique causes and potential injuries.

Common types of motorcycle accidents include:

• High-speed collisions
• Accidents due to poor road conditions
• Collisions with fixed objects
• Accidents from vehicle blind spots
• Left-turn accidents
• Rear-end collisions

High-Speed Collisions

High-speed collisions often occur when a motorcycle travels at excessive speeds and loses control or when another vehicle hits it at high speed.

Speeding, reckless driving, and failure to follow traffic laws are common contributing factors.

High-speed collisions are often catastrophic, leading to broken arms and legs, traumatic brain injuries, internal injuries, and sometimes fatal injuries.

The sheer force of impact at high speeds significantly increases the likelihood of serious injury.

Accidents Due to Poor Road Conditions

Poor road conditions are a significant hazard for motorcyclists.

Unlike cars and other four-wheel vehicles, motorcycles are more susceptible to losing control on uneven or slippery surfaces.

Hazards such as potholes, debris, and wet roads can cause a rider to skid or fall, leading to critical injuries.

Common injuries from accidents due to poor road conditions include broken bones, head and neck injuries, and road rash.

Potholes, loose gravel, and uneven surfaces can cause a rider to lose control and crash.

These types of accidents can also be complicated by other factors, such as the involvement of other vehicles or a rider’s speed.

Collisions With Fixed Objects

Collisions with fixed objects typically occur when a motorcyclist loses control of their bike or is forced off the road by another vehicle.

The rider may crash into a guardrail, tree, wall, building, or another stationary object, leading to severe or fatal injuries.

Collisions with fixed objects can result in fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, and internal injuries.

These accidents often occur at high speed, increasing the severity of the injuries.

Poor visibility, distracted driving, and poor road conditions can contribute to these accidents.

Accidents From Vehicle Blind Spots

Blind spot accidents occur when a driver fails to see a motorcyclist while changing lanes or merging.

Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, making them more likely to be overlooked by drivers.

These accidents often occur on highways or busy streets, where drivers may not check their blind spots thoroughly.

Accidents resulting from vehicle blind spots can cause soft tissue injuries, fractures, internal injuries, and head injuries.

When a car changes lanes without noticing a motorcycle in its blind spot, the result can be a serious collision.

Wearing bright or reflective gear, following traffic laws, and keeping a safe distance from other vehicles can help reduce the risk of these accidents.

Left-Turn Accidents

Left-turn accidents are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, as they often involve head-on collisions with vehicles making left turns.

These accidents can result in severe injuries, including fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and internal injuries.

Left-turn accidents often occur when a driver fails to yield to a motorcycle while making a left turn at an intersection or driveway.

The small size and speed of motorcycles can make them difficult for drivers to see, resulting in these types of collisions.

To avoid left-turn accidents, riders should always stay alert and visible on the road and assume that other drivers may not see them.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions occur when a vehicle crashes into the back of a motorcycle.

These accidents often result from distracted or aggressive driving, sudden stops, or tailgating.

They can leave injured motorcyclists with whiplash, neck injuries, spinal injuries, and head trauma.

Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to rear-end collisions because they do not have the protection of a metal frame surrounding them.

Even a minor impact from a larger vehicle hitting them from behind can cause the rider to lose control and crash, leading to severe or fatal injuries.

To prevent rear-end collisions, motorcyclists should always maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and use turn signals to alert drivers when changing lanes or stopping.

The Motorcycle Accident Claims Process

After a motorcycle accident, your first priority must be seeking immediate medical attention for any injuries.

Once you have received proper medical care, you may consider filing a personal injury claim to seek compensation for your damages.

The claims process can be complex and challenging.

It’s essential to have an attorney experienced with motorcycle injury claims to guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.

Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim

Steps involved in the motorcycle accident claims process includes:

• Gathering Evidence: Your attorney will gather evidence such as medical records, witness statements, police reports, and any photos or videos of the accident scene. This evidence will help establish liability and determine the extent of your damages.
• Proving Liability: To receive compensation, you must prove that the other party was at fault for the accident. Your attorney will work to establish negligence and liability on the other driver’s part.
• Negotiating With Insurance Companies: Your attorney will negotiate with insurance companies to seek fair compensation for your damages. Having an experienced lawyer is crucial in handling these negotiations since insurance companies may try to offer a low settlement or deny your claim altogether.
• Calculating Damages: Your attorney will help determine the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and any future medical expenses or loss of earning capacity.
• Reaching a Settlement: If both parties can come to a fair agreement through negotiations, they may reach a settlement. This resolution means you will receive compensation for your damages without going to court.
• Going to Court: If a fair settlement is not possible, your case may go to trial. A judge or jury will determine the outcome and amount of compensation you may receive for your injuries.

How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer is your best ally when seeking compensation for your injuries.

Lawyers can handle the claims process, advocate for your rights, and help you receive fair compensation for your damages.

Providing Legal Representation and Support

A motorcycle accident lawyer can provide legal representation and support to victims, helping them navigate the claims process and negotiate with insurance companies.

They can also represent the victim in court if necessary.

Having a knowledgeable lawyer on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Proving Negligence and Liability

Proving negligence is crucial in a motorcycle accident claim.

A skilled lawyer can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to establish the other party’s liability for the accident.

They will also ensure that all parties are accountable for their actions.

Maximizing Compensation

Victims of motorcycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

The amount of compensation depends on the severity of the injuries and the impact on the victim’s life.

A skilled lawyer can help victims maximize compensation by thoroughly investigating the accident, gathering evidence, and building a solid case.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to offer a low settlement or deny claims altogether.

An experienced lawyer knows how to negotiate effectively with insurance companies.

They work against the tactics these companies may use to ensure victims receive the total amount they are entitled to.

TorHoerman Law: Schedule a Consultation Now

Understanding the most common motorcycle accident injuries and their potential impact is crucial for victims seeking justice and compensation.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, TorHoerman Law is here to help.

Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers have a proven track record of success representing victims and fighting for their rights.

Contact us for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for the motorcycle accident lawsuit instantly.