Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries 

Posted on 05/18/22

Connecticut has seen an increase in the number of motorcycle accident fatalities and injuries. Accidents on motorbikes can be devastating, and the injuries can leave a permanent impact. Riding a motorcycle surely feels great and surging through the air on two wheels could give a feeling of excitement and freedom. However, it’s crucial that you pay attention and drive with care to avoid an accident that could cause devastating injuries.

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else in Connecticut, either as a rider or passenger, you should contact an attorney and seek compensation. The following are some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries that occur:

Head and Neck Injuries

This is a frequent injury associated with non-fatal motorbike accidents. According to the CDC, wounds to the head and neck region account for 22% of motorcycle injuries. The injuries could be minor, such as a mild concussion or whiplash. Sometimes the injuries are more severe, such as in cases of brain damage, facial lacerations, or broken bones in the neck and skull. Severe injuries can occur when the rider is not using a helmet approved by the Department Of Transportation. Studies have shown that the degree of injuries experienced in a motorcycle accident is substantially influenced by the type of helmet used.

Road Rash

This is also quite common in motorcycle accidents. Road rash simply means bruises and lacerations sustained by a rider as they tumble or skid across the road surface. Often, the extent of the rash is based on the type and quality of safety gear used by the motorcyclist. It could range from moderate to serious. Skin reddening, which can be treated at home, is an example of a first-degree road rash. 

A second-degree road rash, such as fractured skin, might require some medical attention, and a third-degree road rash injury might land the biker in the ER. It is important to have severe cases of road rash treated in the hospital to avoid infections, permanent scarring, and deformity. Treatments may involve skin grafting, and it could take a while to recover fully.

Broken Bones

Motorcyclists have very little protection from car users, and a typical result of collisions is broken bones. This injury can also occur when the rider loses control and crashes into a stationary object. A motorcycle accident can leave the rider with broken bones in their hands, arms, feet, thighs, and ribs. 

The chances of having bones broken in any unprotected area of the body is high. The extent of the fracture can vary widely. Some broken bones may require surgeries and physical therapy before the rider can ride again.

Spinal Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can be a result of motorcycle accidents. This is a serious injury that can change the rider’s life forever. Spinal cord damage can result in loss of feeling and even paralysis in more catastrophic motorbike accidents. 

Injuries to the arms and legs

It is common for motorcyclists to get wounded on their arms and legs during an accident. The legs and feet are largely involved in non-fatal motorbike injuries. In many situations, the rider and passenger are flung off the motorcycle, and any attempt to brace and catch themselves often results in this type of injury. 

Bruises, sprains, torn muscles, dislocated knees, and broken bones are typical injuries to the motorcyclist’s arms and legs. They account for roughly 30% of all injuries in motorcycle accidents in the United States. Riders are encouraged to wear durable and thick fabric such as leather and protective boots on the legs to avoid these injuries.

Contact A Lawyer Today

If you were involved in a motorcycle accident and believe it was the fault of someone else, you may be entitled to file a lawsuit and recover compensation. Contact our office today for assistance