What Types of Injuries Are Common in Motorcycle Crashes?
Motorcycle accidents can cause serious injuries because of the absence of protective measures, unlike other passenger vehicles. Even at moderate speeds, motorcycle riders and passengers come into direct contact with other vehicles, roads, and fixed objects.
Cases of motorcycle accidents in Kansas City are common because of the fast-flowing traffic. To establish liability, one may be required to prove a violation of relevant Missouri traffic laws.
Knowledge of the kind of injuries that typically occur as a result of motorcycle accidents is helpful when a Kansas City lawyer for motorcycle crashes assesses medical care and compensation.
Why Are Motorcycle Injuries Often More Severe?
Motorcyclists do not have the benefit of seat belts, airbags, or protective frames. The body receives most of the shock in case of an accident.
The rider can be thrown off the motorcycle, slide on the pavement, or be pinned underneath a vehicle. Such phenomena greatly accentuate the likelihood of a drastic injury as well as make medical and legal analyses extremely difficult.
Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries
Head injuries as a result of motorcycle accidents often prove to be serious and life-changing. Traumatic brain injuries range from mild concussion to serious brain injury resulting in permanent IQ impairment.
Although wearing helmets, riders still might experience brain damage because of acceleration or deceleration forces. To pursue a claim for injury related to TBIs, it is necessary to obtain medical records regarding neurological symptoms.
Orthopedic Injuries
Fractures and musculoskeletal trauma are common in motorcycle collisions. The arms, legs, wrists, and collarbone may all be at risk during the crash.
In some cases, severe injuries such as fractures, dislocations, or crushing might require surgical intervention or physical therapy. In many cases, these injuries result in lost income or prolonged recovery times.
Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries
A road rash injury results from a biker’s bare flesh being scraped by asphalt or concrete while sliding. Though often dismissed, serious road rash can lead to tissue injury, nerve damage, infections, and scarring.
Soft tissue injuries such as torn ligaments, muscle injuries, and bruising of the internal organs can cause chronic pain and reduced mobility. Protective gear can certainly reduce the risk, but cannot prevent injuries from occurring.
Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
Spine injuries are a grave concern in motorcycle accidents, especially when such accidents involve high-velocity impacts or are rear-end crashes. Spine injuries can lead to a herniated disc, nerve damage, or paralytic disorders.
Even a less serious spinal injury can result in chronic pain and disability. Such injuries may also require a great deal of diagnostic work, including imaging studies, and specialized medical attention.
Internal Injuries
Injuries such as organ damage or internal bleeding may not be readily observed following a road accident. Injuries such as those to the lungs, liver, spleen, or kidneys could result in death if the condition is not immediately identified.
Symptoms may become visible hours and even days after a serious motorcycle accident. Therefore, ensuring proper medical care is necessary.
Key Takeaways
Frequent injuries in motorcycle accidents involve:
- Brain Injuries
- Fractures and orthopedic trauma
- Road rash and soft tissue injury
- Spinal cord & Back Injuries
- Internal organ injuries
- Long-term disability and chronic pain
