Motorcycle riders understand the risks associated with riding. However, they can still suffer severe and life-altering injuries if involved in an accident. Statistics show motorcyclists are 28 times more likely than car drivers to die in a collision.
While there’s no way to entirely prevent these types of accidents from happening, understanding some of the most common motorcycle crash injuries and knowing what kind of compensation you may be eligible for can make all the difference when getting help and support. You can learn more from motorcycle accident lawyers, if you require more information.
This article will deeply dive into the typical injuries motorcycle riders experience in crashes and how to achieve economic recovery after an accident.
Common Motorcycle Crash Injuries
The most common motorcycle crash injuries fall into three main categories: head and neck injuries, internal organ damage, and limb trauma. Let’s look at each category individually to better understand the types of harm that may occur following a motorcycle accident.
Head and Neck Injuries
Head and neck injuries are some of motorcycle accidents’ most severe and potentially long-term consequences. These include traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injury (SCI), facial fractures, skull fractures, and whiplash.
Severe head injuries can cause permanent cognitive impairments, paralysis, loss of feeling or movement in parts of the body, and even death.
Internal Organ Damage
Internal organ damage is another common type of injury following motorcycle accidents. These injuries can include broken ribs or sternum, collapsed lungs, internal bleeding, lacerations to abdominal organs or intestines, and a ruptured spleen.
Internal organ damage is severe because it may not be immediately apparent without medical attention.
Limb Trauma
Limb trauma is also a common consequence associated with motorcycle crashes. This includes fractured bones (arms or legs), dislocations, amputations, nerve damage, sprains, and strains.
Victims may sometimes experience long-term pain or limited range of motion due to these injuries.
Types of Compensation Available
Suppose you’re injured in a motorcycle accident determined to be someone else’s fault. In that case, several types of compensation are available to help cover damages related to your injury. These include:
Medical Expenses
Medical expenses associated with motorcycle crash injuries can be extensive. They can include ambulance rides, hospital stays and treatments, doctor visits, medication costs, physical therapy sessions, and more. You may recover all or part of these expenses through medical compensation.
Lost Wages
If you sustained injuries that have made it impossible to return to work, you might be eligible for lost wages compensation.
This type of compensation can include coverage for the time you’ve missed from work and any future expected losses if your injury is long-term or permanent.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering compensate victims for the physical and emotional anguish experienced due to their injuries. This type of compensation also attempts to relieve other adverse effects, such as loss of enjoyment or reduced quality of life due to limitations caused by the injury.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are intended to punish wrongdoers when their actions were reckless or negligent. Punitive damages aren’t meant to compensate victims but rather to deter the wrongdoer and others in the future.
When to Seek Legal Advice
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to understand your rights and options for financial recovery.
A personal injury attorney can help determine who’s responsible for the incident, what type of compensation may be available, and how to pursue a claim against any at-fault parties.
Consulting with an attorney sooner rather than later can ensure you get the full extent of the compensation you’re entitled to under the law.
Final Thoughts
Motorcycle crashes can cause serious harm, often resulting in costly medical bills and other expenses.
Knowing the types of common motorcycle crash injuries, what kind of compensation may be available to you, and when to seek legal advice are all essential aspects for riders to consider.
With this information in mind, riders can have peace of mind knowing that they can get support and assistance if they experience an accident.