Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Being injured in a motorcycle accident is a frightening experience, and, unfortunately, one that is far too common in the state of Florida. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), has reported that 80 percent of motorcycle accidents nationwide result in injuries or fatalities each year.
At Valiente, Carollo and McElligott PLLC we know first-hand what riders face riding on the street every day. Attorney Antonio Valiente has had motorcycles since he was five years old and still rides today. His brother, Pedro Valiente was a professional motorcycle racer for over 10 years and to this day continues to race for fun. And, as every rider knows, having an accident is not a question of if, but when. So if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident you want lawyers who know about motorcycles and can understand what you are going through (including every item on the list below).
Some common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Head Injuries — Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries often occur in motorcycle accidents. While helmets can reduce the number of motorcycle accident fatalities and severity of injuries, a high impact collision with another vehicle or a fixed object such as light pole can still result in a traumatic brain injury. In motorcycle accidents at moderate speeds, however, wearing a helmet can be the difference between life and death.
- Bone Fractures — In a motorcycle accident, the bike may tip over, trapping the rider’s leg underneath, resulting in a broken leg, which is the most common injury for hospitalized motorcycle riders. Wrist and arm fractures are also common because riders instinctively react by putting their hands out to break the fall. Finally, fractures of the shoulder and pelvis can also occur when a rider is thrown from the motorcycle.
- Leg Injuries — Injuries to the lower extremities, such as fractured or shattered knees and feet are common, especially when riders or passengers are not wearing protective leather clothing, motorcycle boots and even knee pads. Leg injuries can still occur in motorcycle accidents despite these precautions, however.
- Road Rash — Motorcycle riders typically make contact with the road surface in a motorcycle accident which can cause road rash –a skin abrasion that can range from mild to severe. The most severe injuries involve skin being completely removed, exposing underlying layers of tissue and fat.
- Muscle Damage — Motorcycle accidents can lead to permanent muscle damage or paralysis. After a collision, riders should seek immediate medical attention to prevent any muscle damage from worsening
- Biker’s Arm –This condition occurs when a biker lands on an arm during a motorcycle accident. Motorcyclists who are thrown off the bike instinctively try to protect themselves by extending their arms to lessen the impact, which can permanently damage nerve to the arms and upper body. Wearing protective gear such as a leather jacket and elbow pads can reduce the risk of biker’s arm.
The Takeaway
The TakeawayIf you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to meaningful compensation. Motorcycle injury claims are complicated however, and overcoming the public bias against motorcycle riders is daunting. This is why it is essential to have an experienced personal injury attorney in your corner fighting for your rights. Contact us today.
Posted in: Personal Injury