Motorcycle Accident Injuries: The Basics

Motorcycling, while often thrilling, exposes riders to risks that are less common in other vehicles. The lack of structural protection leaves motorcyclists vulnerable to severe injuries in the event of an accident.

Unlike drivers of cars and trucks, motorcyclists are not shielded by a metal frame, airbags, or seatbelts, making them more susceptible to the direct impact of a crash. These factors contribute to higher rates of traumatic injuries, which often require extensive medical treatment and long-term care.

Types of Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Head and Brain Injuries

One of the most serious consequences of motorcycle accidents is traumatic brain injury (TBI). These injuries occur when the head sustains a sudden impact, causing the brain to move within the skull. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage that significantly impairs cognitive and motor functions.

The financial impact is substantial, often involving high medical expenses for initial treatment, rehabilitation, and potentially lifelong care. Beyond medical costs, victims may experience significant pain and suffering, including emotional distress and diminished quality of life. A skilled motorcycle accident lawyer can help victims pursue compensation for both immediate and future medical needs, ensuring that the financial burden is addressed.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Motorcycle accidents can also result in spinal cord injuries (SCIs). These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the damage. Paralysis often requires lifelong medical care, adaptive equipment, and significant lifestyle modifications. Moreover, the emotional and psychological toll is equally profound, affecting the injured individual and their family. A lawyer can help quantify these losses and advocate for maximum compensation, covering everything from medical bills to the cost of future care and modifications to the victim’s living environment.

Road Rash and Skin Abrasions

Road rash, a common injury in motorcycle accidents, occurs when a rider’s skin scrapes against the pavement. The seriousness of road rash can vary from mild abrasions to deep wounds that require skin grafts and plastic surgery. Beyond the immediate pain and risk of infection, severe road rash can lead to permanent scarring and disfigurement. Compensation claims for road rash often include medical expenses and pain and suffering, with a lawyer playing a pivotal role in documenting the injury’s impact on the victim’s life.

Bone Fractures

Bone fractures are prevalent in motorcycle accidents, with common areas of injury including the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Fractures can range from simple breaks to complex injuries requiring surgery and prolonged rehabilitation. The recovery process can be painful and may limit a victim’s ability to work, resulting in lost income. Legal representation is essential in these cases to ensure that compensation reflects the immediate medical costs and the broader impact on the victim’s life, including their ability to work and engage in daily activities.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries, such as damage to organs, are less visible but equally critical in motorcycle accidents. These injuries can be difficult to diagnose immediately, leading to delayed treatment and higher medical costs. The expenses associated with treating internal injuries can be substantial, including surgeries, hospital stays, and ongoing monitoring. Thorough medical documentation is vital for supporting legal claims, and a knowledgeable attorney can assist in gathering the necessary evidence to secure appropriate compensation.

Psychological Injuries

Beyond physical injuries, motorcycle accidents can leave lasting psychological scars. Conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common among accident survivors. These psychological injuries can affect relationships, job performance, and overall quality of life. In legal terms, these injuries are recognized as compensable damages, with compensation potentially covering therapy, medication, and lost income due to reduced work capacity. A compassionate attorney can help document these non-economic damages, ensuring they are appropriately valued in compensation claims.

Amputation Injuries

In severe cases, motorcycle accidents can lead to the amputation of limbs, a life-altering event that necessitates significant adjustments. The costs associated with amputation injuries are immense and can often include prosthetics, rehabilitation, and modifications to the victim’s home and vehicle. Beyond the financial burden, the emotional and psychological impact of a traumatic amputation can be profound, as victims must adapt to a new way of life. Securing maximum compensation is essential to cover these long-term expenses, and a dedicated attorney can provide the legal support to navigate these complex claims.

How Much Does a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Cost?

As an accident victim, you may be wondering how much you will need to spend to secure an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. It may come as a relief to learn that you can retain an attorney without spending any money upfront and that you will not owe any legal fees unless your attorney gets you a settlement or award.

How is this possible? Motorcycle crash lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they only get paid when you do. Any legal fees your lawyer collects will be a predetermined percentage of your settlement or award, so you will never have to pay out-of-pocket for legal help.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near You Today

If you have suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident, it’s in your best interest to contact a lawyer immediately. An attorney will protect your rights and make sure that you get the full and fair value of your claim. Reach out to a personal injury attorney today to schedule a free case evaluation.