Although every road user can become an accident victim, motorcyclists are at a particularly high risk of injuries. Even a minor crash can be fatal, and survivors often face life-changing disabilities or disfigurement.
If you were in a car or motorcycle crash that a negligent driver caused, then contact the Rudolph & Hammond Law Firm. A Scottsdale car accident attorney will evaluate your collision and determine if you may have valid grounds for a claim. Call us today at 480-951-9700 to schedule a consultation.
Until then, read on to learn about five common motorcycle injuries:
- Head and Brain Injuries
Head and brain injuries are particularly common in motorcycle accidents – especially in cases when the rider was not wearing a suitable helmet. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, head wounds can range from minor concussions to traumatic brain injuries.
This is why all bikers should wear helmets at all times. They will protect your skull from a serious impact with the road and may also stop sharp objects penetrating your head.
- Spinal Injuries
There are several spinal injuries that can happen in a motorcycle crash. It is difficult to protect your spine while you are riding, and even a minor collision can cause back pain. High-speed collisions can cause life-long paralysis.
- Broken Bones
Ride Apart claims that one-third of all non-fatal motorcycle accidents result in serious breaks and fractures. These often affect the rider’s legs and feet. As such, it is important to wear adequate footwear and long, sturdy riding pants.
- Road Burn
While many people do not consider road burn to be a serious injury, the impact of hitting the pavement can be incredibly painful. Road burn happens when riders fall from their bikes, usually at high speed, and slide along the road surface.
The consequences of this are similar to those of an actual burn. The impact may range from minor pain and discomfort to serious, life-threatening burns and permanent disfigurement.
- Hand and Wrist Injuries
Although motorcycle accidents are often associated with back and head wounds, the hands and wrists are particularly vulnerable. If you are in a crash with a car or obstacle in front of you, then it is likely that your hands and wrists will bear the brunt of the impact.
This could cause compound fractures and breaks, and many riders do not realize they have suffered a serious injury until long after the adrenaline has worn off. For this reason, you should undergo a medical evaluation after any motorcycle collision – even if you do not notice symptoms of an injury. In addition to providing treatment, a doctor can create a record of your injuries, which may be valuable evidence to support your claim against the at-fault party.
Motorcycle crashes can be costly to treat – especially if they require ongoing care. If you were in a crash in Arizona, then contact the Rudolph & Hammond Law Firm. A Scottsdale accident attorney will guide you through the claims process. To schedule a consultation, call us today at 480-951-9700.