Road Rash From a Motorcycle Accident
At first glance, road rash from a motorcycle accident may not seem as severe as other injuries you can obtain. However, it shouldn't be disregarded. Third-degree road rash burns could lead to significant skin loss, permanent disfiguration, and different kinds of traumatic skin injuries. How can you ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries? That's easy. Call Steelhorse Law.
With a decade of experience in representing victims of motorcycle accidents, Steelhorse Law is a trusted name in the field. Our attorneys' expertise extends beyond this amount of time, and we are committed to evaluating your case thoroughly and providing the best possible assistance. We ride for YOU.
Understanding Road Rash
As a motorcyclist, you understand the danger of being forced to put the bike down. Road rash, which happens when your skin scrapes against the road, is just a small part of that. "Road rash" refers to a painful friction burn that often results in skin abrasion. The friction causes the outer layer of skin that doesn't have protection between it and the road to be scraped away. However, even with protective clothing, if you hit the ground hard enough, you may still experience road rash. The most commonly affected areas include the following:
- Arms
- Back
- Legs
- Shoulders
- Hands
Types of Road Rash
Motorcycle road rash is technically considered a burn. As such, they can be broken down into various degrees of severity. Like other burns, the first degree is the least severe, then the second, with the third being the most dangerous. You may be able to clean up some road rash injuries with an at-home first aid kit. If injuries are in hard-to-reach places such as your back and shoulders, ask a loved one for help cleaning the wounds. If more serious systems develop or they don't get better within a week, let go of the clutch and ask for help from a doctor.
First-degree road rash
First-degree road rash burns are minor in comparison to the others. They consist of scrapes that bleed, bruises, and soreness. With this degree, only the outermost layer of skin is damaged. There is no damage to muscle, nerves, or tissue. First-degree road rash burns leave behind minimal scarring.
Second-degree road rash
Second-degree road rash burns affect deeper layers of skin (the derma layers). They can cause swelling and bleeding and even damage tendons and nerves. Since these injuries go further than the outermost layer of skin, they will most likely lead to scarring.
Third-degree road rash
Third-degree road rash burns are very severe. They cause significant skin loss, open sores, redness, swelling, and bleeding. They will have a glossy look. Third-degree injuries will vary in pain, ranging from excruciatingly painful to a complete lack of feeling. This kind of road rash will leave scars or permanent disfigurement.
Traumatic tattooing
Traumatic tattooing is closely linked to road rash. This occurs when foreign debris gets stuck in an open wound. As a result of the embedment, pigmented marks are left on the skin, resembling a tattoo. Though traumatic tattooing is minimally harmful, it may still require medical treatment.
Complications of Road Rash
Road rash from a motorcycle accident will leave you with raw, painful skin damage. In some cases, you may have debris that has been embedded in the wounds. Getting it cleaned out as soon as possible is extremely important to minimize your chance of infection developing. The treatment plan for road rash varies based on the severity of your injuries.
If taken care of properly, you should be able to recover from road rash reasonably quickly. Minimal injuries can be addressed by cleaning the wound with antibiotics and appropriately dressing it. More serious wounds could require medical professional attention, such as skin grafting or removing dying tissue. If your wounds are neglected, you may experience complications. Complications could include:
- Infection
- Cellulitis
- Scar tissue formation
- Loss of sensation
- Delayed healing
- Amputation
Steelhorse Law. We Stop Biker Bias in its Tracks.
While motorcycle road rash can be painful, it's important to remember that recovery is possible. Even if it's not a broken bone, you still deserve compensation for your injuries. Financial compensation can make the uphill battle of recovery more manageable, especially when it comes to medical bills. Steelhorse Law is the firm best suited to help you navigate this process.
There's a lot of biker bias out there. You need a legal team that knows how to counteract it. At Steelhorse law, we're passionate about doing exactly that. We'll pursue the protection of your right to compensation until the very end. Our free consultation is a no-obligation opportunity for you to discuss your case with our experienced attorneys and understand your legal options. To schedule a free consultation, give us a call today.
Road Rash FAQs
How long does it take for road rash to heal?
Road rash injury recovery time will vary depending on the severity. First-degree burns usually heal within two weeks or less, while second—and third-degree burns can take a month or more to heal properly.
What compensation can I recover for my road rash?
When it comes to recovering compensation for your road rash, you have options. You may be able to recover medical costs, vehicle/property repairs, lost wages and earning capacity, and non-economic damages. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, mental anguish, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Steelhorse Law is here to help you understand and pursue these options.
What should I do after a motorcycle accident?
Immediately after an accident, you should seek medical attention. If you are physically able, you should exchange information with the other involved parties, document the scene/damages, and get witness contact information before being examined by a medical professional. After seeing a doctor, call Steelhorse Law.
