Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

March 11, 2024 Motorcycle Accidents

When riding a motorcycle, your life can change in an instant due to the negligent and reckless acts of others on the road. Collisions involving motorcycles often lead to serious injuries that not only cause immediate pain and suffering but can also have long-lasting effects on the victim’s life. 

From broken bones and bruises to severe brain injuries and paralysis, it is crucial to seek medical attention right away if you are involved in one of these incidents. Below are some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries in Nevada.

Broken Bones

Motorcycle accidents frequently result in broken bones due to the force and impact of these collisions. These fractures often occur in the arms, legs, ribs, and sometimes, the pelvis—areas most exposed and vulnerable during a crash. 

The recovery process can vary widely; some victims require simple casts, while others need complex surgeries. In many cases, physical therapy is required to regain full functionality. This not only impacts a rider’s physical health but can also impose significant financial burdens.

Burn Injuries

Burn injuries in motorcycle accidents can be particularly severe. They can occur due to the motorcycle’s hot parts, friction burns from sliding across the pavement, or chemical burns from leaking fluids.

These injuries range from first-degree burns, which are painful but heal relatively quickly, to third-degree burns that penetrate deep layers of skin, requiring specialized medical treatment and possibly leading to permanent scarring and disfigurement. The recovery process is often painful and lengthy, potentially involving skin grafts and rehabilitation therapy.

Road Rash

Road rash is a common injury that occurs when a motorcyclist’s skin is scraped against the road surface, stripping away layers of skin. While mild cases may heal on their own, severe road rash can expose muscles and require surgical treatment, such as skin grafting. Infection is also a serious risk, and victims need to seek prompt medical care to avoid these potentially deadly conditions.

Brain Damage

Even with a helmet, a motorcyclist is at risk of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) if they are thrown off their bike and their head strikes the ground or another object. Symptoms can range from mild concussions to severe brain trauma, affecting cognitive function, physical abilities, and emotional health. TBIs can require long-term medical care and rehabilitation, and in many cases, the effects are permanent.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are among the most catastrophic outcomes of motorcycle accidents, with the potential to result in partial or complete paralysis. The impact of a motorcycle crash can damage the vertebrae or the spinal cord itself, potentially resulting in loss of movement and sensation below the injury site. Victims often require lifelong care and assistance, including physical therapy and modifications to their living situation.

Injured by a Negligent Driver? Contact an Attorney

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident due to another’s negligence, you have the right to hold the at-fault driver accountable. A Las Vegas motorcycle accident attorney can provide the necessary legal support, aiming to secure a fair settlement to help pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the collision. To begin your journey to justice, schedule a free legal consultation right away and discuss your options for compensation.