If you have been injured -- physically and/or mentally -- as a result of another…
Over 80 percent of reported motorcycle crashes result in the motorcyclist's injury or death. Sadly, motorcycle accidents can have devastating consequences, often leading to severe injuries, emotional distress, and financial hardships for those involved.
As such, it is essential to understand and navigate the challenges that arise in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, both for the victims and their families.
In this article, leading Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Attorney Nathan Fitzpatrick is here to address the critical aspects of understanding and coping with injuries resulting from motorcycle wrecks, providing valuable insights, guidance, and support to those affected.
Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle wrecks can occur due to various factors, and understanding the common causes is essential for promoting safety and preventing such incidents.
Here are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents:
- Distracted driving: Drivers who engage in activities that divert their attention from the road, such as using mobile phones, eating, or adjusting controls, pose a significant risk to motorcyclists.
- Failure to see motorcycles: Motorcycles are smaller and less visible compared to other vehicles on the road. Drivers who fail to check their blind spots or improperly judge the speed and distance of motorcycles may collide with them.
- Lane splitting: Lane splitting refers to motorcycles riding between two lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic. It can be dangerous if not done safely, as other drivers may not anticipate or expect a motorcycle to pass between lanes.
- Speeding and reckless driving: Excessive speed and reckless behavior, such as weaving through traffic, tailgating, or running red lights, increase the likelihood of accidents involving motorcycles.
- Driving under the influence: Operating a motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Road conditions: Hazards like potholes, debris, uneven surfaces, or slippery roads can pose a greater danger to motorcycles compared to larger vehicles, as motorcycles have less stability and maneuverability.
- Inexperienced riders: Inexperience and lack of proper training can contribute to motorcycle wrecks. Riders who are unfamiliar with handling the dynamics of a motorcycle may struggle to navigate challenging situations or make critical decisions on the road.
- Vehicle defects: Mechanical failures or defects in motorcycles, such as brake failures or tire blowouts, can lead to accidents.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Unfortunately, motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to be killed in a fatal driving accident when compared with other motorists. Additionally, they are four times as likely to sustain a serious injury in a collision.
Motorcycle crashes can also result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity and long-term impact. Understanding the common injuries associated with motorcycle crashes is crucial for victims and their loved ones.
Here are some of the most common injuries suffered by motorcycle riders.
Traumatic Brain Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
One of the most severe and life-altering injuries that can occur after crashing your bike is a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Due to the lack of external protection, motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to this type of head injury.
And besides head injuries, a motorcycle crash can also cause motorcycle riders to sustain facial disfigurement, brain damage, and even death, especially if the victim wasn't wearing a helmet.
To prevent face and head injuries during a motorcycle crash, it is crucial to wear a properly fitted helmet that meets safety standards. Additionally, practicing defensive driving, obeying traffic rules, and avoiding reckless behaviors can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and subsequent TBIs.
Upper Extremity Injuries from Motorcycle Wrecks
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), upper extremity injuries are the second most frequently occurring injuries in motorcycle wrecks.
These injuries affect the arms, hands, wrists, and shoulders and can range from fractures and dislocations to severe lacerations and soft tissue damage. The impact of a motorcycle collision can result in significant trauma to the upper extremities, often requiring immediate medical attention and comprehensive rehabilitation to restore functionality and promote healing.
There are several precautions you can take to reduce the risk of upper extremity injuries in accidents involving motorcycles, including wearing protective gear. The appropriate protective gear can help absorb impact and provide an additional layer of protection to your upper extremities.
Spinal Cord Injuries from Motorcycle Wrecks
Motorcycle collisions can result in devastating spinal cord injuries, leading to partial or complete paralysis. The impact of a motorcycle collision can cause severe trauma to the spinal cord, affecting a person's motor and sensory functions.
Additionally, spinal injuries can lead to nerve damage, chronic pain, and paralysis. In a worst-case scenario, this serious injury can even kill you.
You can do a lot to prevent spinal cord injuries while riding a motorcycle by wearing appropriate protective gear such as a helmet, spine protector, and reinforced clothing.
Road Rash and Burns from Motorcycle Accidents
When a motorcyclist is involved in an accident, they are at risk of sustaining road rash and burns, which can range from minor abrasions to severe skin injuries. The friction between the body and the road surface during a crash can cause painful and debilitating road rash, while exposure to heat, flames, or hot surfaces can result in burns.
If you want to avoid getting road rash and burns when an accident happens, it's best to wear an armored jacket, pants and gloves. You'll also want to wear boots instead of sneakers and other low-height shoes.
Broken Bones from Motorcycle Accidents
The impact of a motorcycle collision can lead to bone fractures and breaks, affecting various parts of the body. Fractured limbs, ribs, collarbones, and pelvic bones are common injuries in motorcycle wrecks due to the blunt force trauma exerted on the body upon collision.
To reduce the risk of broken bones, it is essential to prioritize safety measures. Wearing protective gear such as a helmet, sturdy boots, gloves, and appropriate body armor can help absorb impact and provide added protection to vulnerable areas.
How Motorcycle Accident Victims Can Cope With Injuries
Sometimes no matter what you do or how careful you are, you find yourself involved in a motorcycle wreck. When that happens, dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of a motorcycle collision can be overwhelming for victims.
Fortunately, there are various ways in which victims can cope with their injuries and work towards recovery. Seeking prompt medical treatment, undergoing physical therapy, and receiving mental health support are crucial steps toward regaining physical well-being and emotional stability.
Seeking Medical Treatment for Motorcycle Accident Injuries
After a motorcycle collision, it is essential for victims to seek immediate medical treatment. Even if injuries appear minor, they may have underlying complications that could worsen over time.
Medical professionals can assess the extent of injuries, provide appropriate treatment, and monitor the healing process. Seeking medical treatment promptly not only promotes physical recovery but also helps establish a medical record that can support any legal claims.
Physical Therapy for Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Physical therapy plays a vital role in the rehabilitation process for those involved in debilitating motorcycle wrecks. A skilled physical therapist can design a personalized treatment plan to help restore mobility, strength, and functionality to injured body parts.
Through targeted exercises, stretching, and other therapeutic techniques, physical therapy aims to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and enhance overall physical well-being. Engaging in consistent physical therapy sessions can significantly contribute to the recovery process.
Mental Health Support for Motorcycle Accident Victims
Motorcycle wrecks can have a significant impact on a person's mental well-being. Coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common among victims of motorcycle wrecks.
Seeking mental health support from qualified professionals, such as therapists or counselors, can provide the necessary guidance and tools to address emotional challenges and promote psychological healing among injured motorcyclists.
Support groups and peer networks can also offer valuable emotional support by connecting individuals with others who have experienced similar situations. It is important for victims of motorbiking accidents to prioritize their mental health alongside their physical recovery.
Legal Options for Motorcycle Accident Victims
In the event of a motorcycle wreck, victims may be able to seek legal support. It is important for victims to understand their rights and explore their options in order to determine whether they can pursue compensation for losses incurred due to the accident.
Working with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can provide valuable guidance around insurance claims, liability issues and other legal matters.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
Victims of motorcycle crashes may be able to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for losses incurred due to the accident. They can pursue damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
When filing a personal injury claim, having access to relevant evidence, including photos of the crash scene or medical records, can help strengthen the case.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
After a motorcycle wreck, victims may need to contact their own insurance company or the at-fault driver’s insurance company to submit a claim or pursue legal action. In such cases, working with an experienced attorney can help ensure that all necessary steps are taken in order to maximize the chance of recovering the full amount of compensation.
Choosing a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
When searching for legal support after a motorcycle crash, victims should choose an experienced attorney who can provide comprehensive services and expert advice. An attorney who specializes in personal injury law and has experience handling motorcycle accidents can help ensure that victims’ rights are protected throughout the process.
It is also important to choose an attorney who is familiar with the local laws and court systems, as this can have a major impact on the success of the case. Victims should take their time to research potential attorneys before committing to anyone in particular.
Injured In A Motorcycle Accident? Contact The Motorcycle Accident Lawyers At The Fitzpatrick Firm
At Fitzpatrick Law Firm, our dedicated team of motorcycle injury attorneys has years of experience representing clients through the entire legal process. We understand the physical and emotional toll of motorcycle collisions, and we are here to help you seek justice and compensation for your losses. To learn more about our services or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today at (678) 607-5550. Let us help you get back on track after your motorcycle accident.