Motorcycle accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, some of which can have long-lasting and life-altering effects.
Understanding the most common motorcycle accident injuries, the potential risks, and the necessary precautions is crucial for riders to know.
At Gonzalez & Jones, APC, our experienced Hollister motorcycle accident lawyers are dedicated to helping motorcyclists navigate the aftermath of an accident, ensuring you receive the medical care and legal support you need.
Let’s take a closer look at the most frequent injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents in California and their causes, symptoms, and treatments, as well as your legal options.
For a free consultation, please call (408) 848-2208 or send us an online message today.
1. Head and Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most common motorcycle accident injuries resulting from sudden trauma to the brain. Types of TBIs include concussions, contusions, penetrating injuries, and diffuse axonal injuries. TBIs can occur due to direct impact on pavement or another vehicle or by sudden deceleration forces.
Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the injury and may include:
- Loss of consciousness,
- Confusion,
- Persistent headaches,
- Nausea, and
- Cognitive or behavioral changes.
Long-term effects of TBIs can include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, and physical disabilities. The most severe cases may require surgery and rehabilitation therapies such as physical, occupational, and cognitive therapy. Concussions are a type of TBI and occur when the brain rattles within the skull, often from a blow to the head. Common symptoms include headache, dizziness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light and noise, and fatigue.
Immediately following a concussion, individuals may experience confusion, memory loss, and difficulty with coordination and balance. Long-term impacts can include post-concussion syndrome, where symptoms persist for weeks or months, and an increased risk of future concussions and cumulative brain damage.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
Other common motorcycle accident injuries involve spinal cord injuries, often resulting in significant long-term impacts on mobility.
There are two main types of spinal cord injuries:
- Complete injuries—total loss of sensation and motor function below the injury site, often resulting in permanent paralysis; and
- Incomplete injuries—partial loss of sensation and motor function, where some signals can still travel through the affected spinal cord area.
Common causes of spinal cord injuries in motorcycle accidents include collisions with other vehicles, falls, and being thrown from the motorcycle. The impact on mobility can be profound, leading to paralysis and loss of sensation. Rehabilitation and long-term care are critical for recovery, involving physical therapy to regain as much function as possible, occupational therapy to adapt to new limitations, and ongoing medical care to manage complications and improve quality of life.
3. Fractured and Broken Bones
Motorcycle accidents often result in fractures and broken bones due to the lack of protective barriers between the rider and the impact.
Commonly broken bones in these accidents include:
- Arms,
- Legs,
- Ribs, and
- Collarbone.
Due to the exposed nature of riding, motorcyclists face unique risks of fractures. High-speed collisions, sudden stops, and falls can easily result in multiple fractures. Protective gear like helmets and padded clothing can help, but they do not eliminate the risk.
Treatment for broken bones can be surgical or non-surgical, depending on the severity of the fracture. Surgical treatments may involve the use of metal plates, screws, or rods to stabilize the bone. Non-surgical treatments include casting, splinting, and bracing to allow the bone to heal naturally. Recovery times vary but generally involve several weeks to months, with physical therapy playing a crucial role in restoring strength and mobility to the affected area.
4. Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries
Road rash is a common motorcycle accident injury where the skin is scraped off by contact with the road.
The severity of road rash injuries falls into the following categories:
- First-degree includes minor scrapes and bruises;
- Second-degree injuries involve deeper abrasions with the potential for scarring; and
- Third-degree road rash injuries can cause damage extending to the underlying tissues.
Treatment options for road rash include cleaning and dressing the wounds to prevent infection, and in severe cases, skin grafts may be necessary. Prevention includes wearing protective gear like leather jackets and pants to minimize skin exposure.
Soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, and contusions are also common in motorcycle accidents. These injuries involve damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Recovery and rehabilitation typically include rest and physical therapy to restore function and strength. Prompt and appropriate treatment is essential to ensure proper healing and to prevent long-term complications.
5. Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are among the most serious injuries from motorcycle accidents, often requiring immediate medical attention. Causes include blunt force trauma from impacts from flying objects or colliding with another vehicle or the ground. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, dizziness, and fainting. The urgency of medical treatment cannot be overstated, as internal bleeding can quickly become life-threatening without prompt intervention.
Organ damage is also common in motorcycle accidents, with the liver, spleen, and lungs being particularly vulnerable. Potential complications include internal bleeding, infection, and loss of organ function.
Treatments vary based on the severity and type of damage, ranging from monitoring and medication to surgical intervention. Immediate medical evaluation is crucial to address these injuries effectively and prevent further complications.
Seek Legal Advice
Seeking legal help after a motorcycle accident is crucial. Navigating the complexities of insurance claims and potential legal actions requires expert knowledge to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. A skilled California accident attorney can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
Additionally, having a lawyer, like the experienced team at Gonzalez & Jones, ensures that your rights are protected throughout the process, preventing any unfair practices by insurers or opposing parties.
Contact Our Skilled California Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Motorcycle accidents are devastating. From minor injuries to fractures and head injuries, you may find yourself wondering how you will be able to get back on your feet. At Gonzalez & Jones, APC, we have over 40 years of combined experience. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will fight on your behalf for the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on recovery while we handle the legal aspects of your accident.
Call us at (408) 848-2208 or fill out our online form today to schedule a free consultation.