An estimated 90,000 motorcyclists are injured in motorcycle accidents each year in the United States. In 2016, more than 3,000 of those crashes involving injuries occurred right here in Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
Not surprisingly, because motorcycle riders lack any kind of exterior protection, the injuries they sustain in an accident can be significant—even catastrophic. Common motorcycle crash injuries include:
- Head, brain, and neck injuries. Neck injuries such as broken bones, damaged nerves, muscles, or ligament; as well as skull fractures, brain bleeds, concussions, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are common among motorcycle accident victims. Helmets are optional for experienced riders over 21 in Pennsylvania, but these types of injuries are quite common when someone chooses not to wear protection.
- Spinal cord injuries. Damaged or severed spinal cord nerves can affect how the brain and body communicate. Partial or total paralysis can result, depending on the severity and location of the injury.
- Broken bones. While these injuries may seem relatively minor compared to others, in some cases they can cause significant pain and long-term symptoms, and may even contribute to other accident-related conditions.
- Severe abrasion injuries. Also known as “road rash,” these injuries occur when a motorcyclist’s skin slides across the pavement. In extreme cases, the scrape can extend down to the muscle or bone.
- Facial and dental injuries. Eye damage, as well as broken facial bones and teeth, are common motorcycle accident injuries.
- Chest injuries. Fractured ribs, punctured lungs, excess fluid in the heart, and a ruptured aorta can occur when a motorcyclists sustains significant chest trauma.
- Arm and hand injuries. Broken bones in the hands and wrist are common, as is an injury known as “rider’s arm,” which occurs when a motorcycle falls onto a rider’s arm, resulting in nerve damage and potential paralysis.
- Leg and foot injuries. Torn ligaments and broken leg or foot bones happen frequently.
- Amputations. Victims may lose a limb during the accident itself, or in the operating room afterward.
- Open wounds. This type of injury occurs when an object or broken bone punctures the skin.
Consult an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
The knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorneys with the Accident and Injury Law Group can help you protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation.