Because of the nature of motorcycles and the lack of protection they offer, common motorcycle injuries are often severe or catastrophic. The most common injuries in motorcycle accidents generally include road rash, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and more.
We have witnessed firsthand the life-altering repercussions motorcycle crash victims often endure. While wearing proper protective gear is crucial, it does not guarantee the prevention of certain severe injuries.
Here are the seven most common motorcycle injuries we see and how our Davie motorcycle accident lawyers can help if you or a loved one has experienced these injuries.
The Seven Most Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
To underscore the importance of motorcycle safety awareness, here are seven of the most common and potentially catastrophic injuries that can result from these accidents:
Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries
Even with a helmet, the violent forces involved in a motorcycle crash can cause the brain to smash into the skull. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) range from concussions to permanent damage, comas, or even wrongful death.
Symptoms may initially appear mild but can have lasting cognitive, behavioral, and physical impacts. Motor vehicle accidents, including motorcycle accidents, are some of the greatest causes of traumatic brain injuries.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
When a rider is violently thrown from their motorcycle, the spine can sustain extreme trauma leading to partial or complete paralysis.
Severing or damaging the spinal cord nerves can result in paraplegia (leg paralysis) or tetraplegia (full body paralysis), permanently restricting a victim’s mobility and independence.
Bone Fractures and Crushed Limbs
Without any metal frame to absorb impacts, motorcyclists are susceptible to multiple broken or crushed bones, especially in the legs, arms, and ribs. These injuries require extensive treatment and rehabilitation, potentially limiting future mobility and dexterity.
Severe Road Rash and Disfigurement
Skidding or tumbling along pavement can tear away layers of skin and flesh, leading to gruesome “road rash” injuries. Third- and fourth-degree burns may occur, leaving victims permanently disfigured and scarred. Plastic surgery is often needed for recovery.
Biker’s Arm and Permanent Nerve Damage
When a rider instinctively extends an arm to break their fall, the impact can cause stretched or severed nerves in the shoulder, arm, or hand region. This “biker’s arm” injury may lead to permanent loss of muscle control, sensation, or mobility in the limb.
Crush Injuries and Internal Organ Damage
The forceful impact of a motorcycle collision can internally crush organs like the spleen, kidneys, or lungs, causing excessive bleeding and potential multiple system failures. Emergency surgery is usually necessary to prevent fatal blood loss and organ damage.
Long-Term Mental and Emotional Trauma
In addition to visible physical wounds, the psychological impacts of a traumatic motorcycle accident can be equally scarring. Victims often struggle with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of life stemming from the terrifying incident.
How Can a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help if I’m Injured?
While safety should always be a top priority, riders must understand that no preventative measure can guarantee avoiding all injuries in a high-impact collision. That’s why having the right legal representation becomes so vital after a motorcycle crash occurs.
At Winston Law Firm, our experienced team is well-versed in:
- Investigating to prove fault and liability for the accident
- Identifying all sources of insurance coverage and compensation
- Calculating current and future damages related to your injuries
- Dealing with insurers to maximize the settlement value of your claim
- Preparing to fight for full justice at trial if negotiations stall
- Protecting your rights and future interests as the victim
What Damages Can I Pursue After a Motorcycle Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be able to pursue compensation for a variety of damages. Here are some of the main types of damages that can potentially be recovered:
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses (current and future costs for hospitalization, surgery, medications, rehabilitation, medical equipment, etc.)
- Lost wages and income (for time off work to recover as well as potential future diminished earning capacity)
- Property damage repair/replacement costs (for your motorcycle, helmet, gear, etc.)
- Home services/attendant care costs if your injuries require assistance with daily living activities
- Other out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident and injuries (travel costs for medical care, home accommodations needed like ramps or lifts, etc.)
Non-Economic Damages
- Physical pain and suffering endured from the injuries
- Emotional distress, trauma, PTSD from the accident
- Loss of enjoyment or quality of life due to disabilities or disfigurement
- Loss of consortium (inability to have a normal spousal relationship)
Though we refer to the seven most common motorcycle injuries, the losses you experience from this type of trauma are far from ordinary. It is wise to reach out for help from an experienced Davie personal injury lawyer to protect your rights and pursue the maximum compensation possible so you can rebuild your life.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Law Firm for a Free Consultation
Although riding may never feel quite the same after a life-altering motorcycle accident, recovering fair compensation can at least provide victims with a financial fresh start. Our role is to lift every legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing.
If you or someone you love was injured in a motorcycle crash, please don’t hesitate to get our compassionate team involved right away. The sooner we can start investigating and building your case, the better we can pursue the accountability and fair compensation you deserve.
For more information on mistakes to avoid in motorcycle accidents, take a look at our free e-books: The Ultimate Guide to Accident Cases in Florida and The Florida Motorcycle Accident Bible. Contact Winston Law Firm today for a free case evaluation.
