It’s no secret that motorcycle accidents are highly dangerous—even more so than standard car crashes. Since the cyclist is completely exposed, even a minor collision could result in severe injuries or even death. This exposure, paired with drivers’ lack of visibility, makes motorcyclists extremely vulnerable when it comes to accidents on the road. Here are some of the most common injuries that derive from motorcycle crashes.
Road Rash
Road rash is the most common injury sustained by motorcycles in a crash. Luckily this injury is the least severe and can be prevented in some extent by protective clothing. However, the act of being thrown from your bike at high speed could cause severe burns and lactations. If they are not properly treated, they could cause permanent damage to your skin.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
If a cyclist was not wearing a helmet when the crash occurred, he could be at risk of head trauma. If the blow to the head was severe enough, it could result in intracerebral haemorrhage or traumatic brain injury. Even a seemingly small head injury could eventually lead to TBI if left untreated, making it imperative to seek medical attention immediately after the accident occurs. Head injuries also come with the following symptoms:
- Nausea
- Slurred speech
- Headaches
- Loss of memory
- Dilated pupils
If the head injury escalates to TBI, the injured cyclist could lose cognitive functions, experiencing difficulties with learning, memory and coordination.
Burns
Many cyclists will receive second or third-degree burns when the accident occurs. Since the motorcycle’s engine is fully exposed, the cyclist will often come into contact with the engine once propelled from the bike. Since this engine reaches an average temperature of 230 degrees, the cyclist’s skin could be severely burned by any contact.
Fractures
This is another one of the most common injuries sustained in a motorcycle cycle and can range in severity depending on the location of the fracture. The most affected bones are typically the pelvis or wrist as the driver attempts to block his face by throwing up his hands. This action leaves the lower body vulnerable, resulting in potential fractures to the hip or pelvis. A femur fracture is the most severe and least common. Since the femur is the longest bone in the body, any fracture could be life-threatening and cause uncontrollable bleeding and extreme pain.
If you were injured in a motorcycle crash, you could be eligible to receive compensation for damages to you and your vehicle. Contact a brain injury lawyer in Memphis, TN, who can ensure you receive the settlement you deserve.
Thank you to the experts at Darrell Castle & Associates for their insight into brain injuries and the law.