Although motorcycles provide an enjoyable form of transportation for many, they lack the same level of safety features that cars do. As a result, motorcyclists are more likely to face higher risks in the event of a crash.
Sadly, a rider was involved in a motorcycle accident in Venice, Florida that unfortunately took their life. A reporter from ABC7 who covered the incident stated:
“According to the Florida Highway Patrol, A Buick SUV was driving southbound on Jacaranda Blvd and preparing to turn left to merge onto I-75 Southbound. Troopers say the motorcycle, driven by the victim, was approaching with the interchange and had the green light. That’s when the Buick turned left at the light and collided with the motorcycle.”
This type of motorcycle accident is very common, with more drivers in the area leading to traffic congestion we’re starting to see more accidents. It’s important that everyone slow down, obey the laws of the road, and make safety of themselves and everyone around them a top priority.
The extent of motorcycle accident injuries can range anywhere from light whiplash and abrasions to life-threatening brain trauma, broken bones, and organ damage. Unfortunately, motorcyclists have a high risk of fatality in traffic collisions when compared with automobile occupants.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Unlike automotive passengers who are sheltered by a vehicle’s protective body, motorcyclists lack the same protection and are consequently much more susceptible to serious harm when in an accident.
Nonetheless, the severity of injury and potential for fatalities in any traffic collision are largely contingent upon the incident’s specifics, the rate at which each vehicle was traveling and what protective measures were taken.
The extent of motorcycle accident injuries also rely on the make and model of bike being ridden, with some offering more protection and steadiness than others.
Road Rash
Road rash is a traumatic form of skin damage caused by contact with the ground at high velocity. Motorcyclists are especially prone to this type of injury, as it often occurs when they get thrown from their bike during an accident.
The extent of damage from road rash can range anywhere from trivial to life-threatening, so it is essential that you seek medical assistance right away in order to avoid the risk of infection. In some cases, depending on its severity, skin or tissue grafts may be needed for proper healing.
Fractures, Sprains, and Dislocations
Motorcycles can be inherently less stable than other vehicles, and during an accident this could mean riders sustain fractures, sprains, dislocations or similar damage to their limbs due to the cycle falling on them. Even if they try to catch themselves instinctively while taking a tumble, riders may still get broken bones as a result of doing so.
All the aforementioned traumas necessitate immediate medical treatment and may require surgical procedures, particularly in grave scenarios.
Lower Extremity Injuries
Injuries to the lower extremities are common in motorcycle collisions, according to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA). The research found that fractures and leg injuries were frequently observed among those involved. Motorcyclists must take extra precaution when out on the roads as these types of incidents can have far-reaching consequences.
This study additionally determined that motorcyclists are more susceptible to lower extremity injuries when the front aspect of their vehicle is impacted in a collision. These sorts of traumas can be comprised of fractures, dislocations, and even crushing damage if they become pinned beneath their motorcycle.
Lower extremity injuries may vary in severity, and its effects could include hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy or even long-term pain. In the worst cases, it might lead to limited mobility and an impaired ability to work.
Upper Extremity Injuries
Traumatic injuries to the upper extremities are the second most prevalent form of injury among motorcyclists. Riders who drive heavier, bulkier motorcycles benefit from greater leg protection and stability – making them more prone to these types of injuries.
Fractures, sprains, dislocations and crush injuries are amongst the most common ailments. As ribs have minimal protection and are generally vulnerable compared to other bones, broken ribs occur with high frequency. If the wound is extreme enough it may even lead to amputation of hands or arms.
Not only can these injuries lead to a hospital stay, but may also necessitate surgery or physical therapy. Following recovery, the effects of injury may cause limited mobility, long-term pain and continuous physiotherapy sessions. Some nerve damage can be so severe that people are unable to undertake regular duties; in some cases even rendering them incapable of working again.
Organ Damage and Internal Bleeding
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe blunt force trauma that can be detrimental to internal organs and lead to fatal consequences of sepsis or organ failure without urgent medical attention. Such trauma necessitates immediate action for the best chance of recovery.
In certain cases, penetrating trauma to the skin may inflict internal damage and harm an organ. Such penetration injuries have been known to cause extensive blood loss and even be fatal in some circumstances.
Hospitalization for an extended period of time is necessary when internal injuries have caused organ damage. The lasting effects may include the need for dialysis or a stoma, as well as breathing difficulties depending on which organs were damaged.
Spine and Back Injuries
Roughly 20% of motorcycle accidents lead to spinal injuries due to intense force, crush wounds, or nerve harm.
When it comes to spinal injuries, time is of the essence. Prompt medical attention and specialized care are imperative for a successful outcome as patients typically need an extended hospital stay in order to gauge potential long-term problems or even nerve damage that may require surgical intervention.
In some of the most serious cases, spinal damage can cause irreparable paraplegia (loss of movement and sensation in both legs) or even quadriplegia (all four limbs paralyzed).
Head and Brain Injuries
Traumatic Brain Injuries are a severe consequence of motorcycle accidents and occur in 15% of helmeted riders, substantially more so at 21% among the unhelmeted. This type of injury is particularly concerning due to its time-sensitive nature when there is internal bleeding or penetrating wounds present. To make matters worse, TBIs make up a large portion (54%) of motorcyclist fatalities across the world.
As a result of traumatic brain injuries, patients may be required to stay in the hospital for prolonged periods and receive surgery. Depending on which area of their brain was damaged and how serious it is, they could also need rehabilitation to regain skills such as speaking or walking. Additionally, long-term care might be necessary after injury; this can mean that certain individuals are unable to continue working.
Reducing the Risk of Motorcycle Accident Injury
As a motorcycle rider, the most crucial precaution you can take to ensure your own safety is wearing an appropriate helmet. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that this simple practice drastically reduces your risk of sustaining a head injury by 69%, or even dying in an accident by 37%. Furthermore, many insurance policies require protective clothing such as gloves, helmets, and boots; not adhering to these mandates could potentially void any coverage benefits offered.
As a driver, it is of utmost importance that you comply with the laws and drive responsibly. Although accidental incidents are often outside your reach when other vehicles are involved, you can reduce the chances of them occurring by abiding to speed regulations and staying alert to any activity in your vicinity.
What Should I do if I’ve Been Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?
It is essential to remain level-headed in the event of a motorcycle accident, regardless of who was at fault. Keeping your composure will make all the difference when figuring out how best to approach the situation and protect yourself.
Before anything else, examine yourself for any major traumas. Unless you’re completely certain that no head injuries have happened, keep your helmet on. If it is safe to do so and will not put yourself or somebody else in danger, offer aid or first-aid to the people around you.
It is essential that you do not try to relocate your bicycle or any other vehicle involved, along with any debris on the roadway. If possible, take pictures of both your motorcycle and its surrounding environment. Taking notes about the date, time of day, weather conditions as well as anything prior to the accident will be beneficial for future reference.
If the authorities arrive at the scene, give them a comprehensive version of what happened from your point-of-view if possible. Avoid any admissions of guilt and ask that they provide you with a copy of their report.
Furthermore, ensure that you exchange insurance details with the other motorists involved in the accident and document the make, model, and registration plate of each car. It is important to never concede responsibility for any part of what happened; contact your insurance company promptly and present them with all information gathered during the incident but do not permit a statement to be recorded over-the-phone.
When you’re able, call FGB Law Firm and set up an appointment with one of our experienced Port Charlotte motorcycle accident attorneys. Our law firm has extensive knowledge in personal injury law and will help coordinate with the police so that you can obtain all the evidence needed for your insurance provider to pay out what is rightfully due to you.
Let us help you recover medical costs, lost wages, and compensation for property destruction, emotional anguish as well as physical suffering. Reach out to us without delay so that we can work together to restore your life to normalcy. Call 941-979-9010 or complete our online consultation form today.