Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating, but it comes with additional risks other motorists aren't exposed to. Motorcyclists aren't protected by the steel frame of a car, making them vulnerable to serious injury in the event of an accident. Many of the injuries commonly sustained by motorcyclists can lead to permanent damage, disability, or even death. When injuries were caused by another motorist's negligence, an auto accidents attorney can help victims recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Experienced in cases involving motorcycle collisions, Salt Lake City, UT, personal injury Lynn C. Harris can help you in your time of need. Now, let's take a closer look at some common injuries in motorcycle accidents and what riders can do to help protect themselves.
Head Injuries
Head injuries are a common injury sustained in motorcycle accidents and can range from mild to severe. Head injuries may include minor concussions that cause no lasting damage, or serious brain injuries that cause permanent damage or even death. Head injuries are more devastating when motorcyclists choose not to wear helmets, but even when wearing a helmet, a head-on impact at high speed can still result in a serious head injury.
Neck Injuries
Neck injuries are another common and potentially serious injury sustained in motorcycle accidents. Neck injuries can result in damage to the nerves or muscles of the neck, broken bones, or spinal cord damage. Paralysis is one of the biggest risks of a neck injury in motorcycle accidents. As with head injuries, wearing a helmet whenever riding a motorcycle can help reduce the risk of neck injuries.
Road Rash
Road rash is a type of injury caused by sliding across the ground during a motorcycle accident. Road rash commonly occurs in motorcycle accidents in which the motorcyclist has left skin exposed when riding or is only wearing clothing made of thin fabric. Sliding across the ground can scrape the skin, potentially resulting in nerve damage, permanent skin damage, or infection. Wearing leather riding gear, such as a full leather race suit or leather riding pants, jacket, and gloves, can help mitigate skin damage from road rash in the event of a motorcycle crash.
Muscle Damage and Broken Bones
Muscle damage and broken bones can occur anywhere on the body as a result of a motorcycle accident. Muscle damage can lead to reduced mobility or a complete loss of muscle function. Broken bones can also have a serious impact on limb function. In severe cases, major surgery may be necessary to repair broken bones, while in other cases, amputation may be the only option.
Biker's Arm
Biker’s Arm is a condition that can occur when a motorcyclist attempts to protect him or herself from an impact by raising his or her arm. The arm then suffers the greatest force of impact, potentially causing permanent nerve damage or total loss of mobility of the arm. Biker's arm may occur immediately after an accident or may take several hours or days to be felt. Wearing elbow pads and a heavy leather jacket can help reduce damage.
Contact Motorcycle Accident Attorney Lynn C. Harris
Victims of motorcycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you are encouraged to contact motorcycle accident Lynn C. Harris to ensure your rights are protected.
