The Most Common Types of Motorcycle Injuries?

As exciting as they are to ride, motorcycles are statistically more dangerous than other vehicles to operate. They are generally less stable, harder to see by other drivers on the road, and provide less physical protection from the environment. As a result, riders are more likely to get motorcycle accident injuries. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration accidents involving motorcycles represent a disproportionate amount of all traffic accident deaths. Riders are 26 times more likely to die as a result of their injuries. The most common types of injuries include traumatic brain injuries (TBI), road rash, and other injuries to the arms, legs, and back, and emotional injuries like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

1. How can I reduce the impact of motorcycle injuries?

The proper preparation can help avoid accidents and reduce injuries in an accident. Proper training, the right gear, and adequate insurance are all important.

Most states require motorcyclist to get a license - or endorsement - to legally ride a motorcycle. Common licensing requirements include the completion of a state approved training course. These courses help improve motorcyclist's knowledge of the proper operation of a motorcycle and safety laws and regulations. Rider training can be life-saving. With proper training, riders are less likely to be involved in a crash.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) one of the most effective ways to prevent injuries like TBI is wearing a helmet. Motorcycle injury statistics from the CDC shows that helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% and the risk of head injury by 69%. Although helmets are required in most other states and are normally the first piece of protective gear considered, it is important to consider other gear to avoid motorcycle accident injuries. Riders should consider the proper eye protection especially if the motorcycle does not have a windshield. Riders should also wear sturdy boots, gloves, long pants or jeans, and a snug-fitting thick jacket. This gear could significantly reduce some of the most common motorcycle injuries if you are in an accident.

Choosing the right insurance is also a critical part of riding a motorcycle. While insurance may not prevent an accident from happening, it will help to reduce some of the financial and emotional impacts if an accident occurs. The proper insurance policy will cover damages to your motorcycle, and other property damage resulting from the accident, assist with medical bills if you are injured, and financial assistance for you and your family if you are out of work or don't survive the accident.

2. What are the common physical injuries in a motorcycle crash?

Road rash is one of the first motorcycle accident injuries that many people think of. It occurs when a rider slides across the pavement after being forcibly ejected from the motorcycle during a crash. Due to the force of the crash, this is normally more than just a few scrapes and bruises. Often many layers of skin are peeled away on the arms, legs, and torso and can expose the riders' muscles. In addition, riders can also suffer from severe bruising and broken bones.

Motorcycle riders are also at a higher risk of spinal cord injuries in a motorcycle crash. A spinal cord injury is any damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves at the end of the spinal canal. These damages often cause permanent changes in strength, sensation, and other body functions and in some situations, paralysis. Due to the lack of protection for a biker's body while riding a motorcycle there is an extremely high risk of spinal cord injury when a rider is thrown from their motorcycle during a crash.

3. What is a TBI?

One of the more serious injuries sustained by motorcycle riders is a TBI or traumatic brain injury. The Mayo Clinic explains that a TBI is a brain injury that usually results from a violent blow or jolt to the head. As a result, motor vehicle collisions are a common cause of traumatic brain injuries. Additionally, a traumatic brain injury can occur when the brain is damaged by a foreign object like a bullet or shattered piece of skull.

The effects of a TBI can range from a temporary effect on your brain cells or a more serious impact including bruising, torn tissues, bleeding, and other physical damage that could lead to death. These injuries can have wide-ranging physical and psychological effects. Some signs or symptoms may appear immediately after the accident or in some cases, days or weeks later.

4. Can I get PTSD from a motorcycle accident?

The American Psychiatric Association Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed serious accidents. A recent study found that PTSD is a common result of motorcycle crashes.

People with have intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings related to their accident that last long after the traumatic event has ended. Symptoms of PTSD include reliving the accident through flashbacks or nightmares; prolonged feelings of sadness or anger or increased detachment from friends and loved ones. People usually try to avoid situations or triggers that remind them of the traumatic event, and they may have strong negative reactions to something as ordinary as a loud noise. As a result, it is common for many riders to avoid motorcycles and even give up riding after experiencing an accident, even if they have minor injuries.

5. What happens if I am involved in an accident?

Reports show that motorcycle crashes are on the rise. As with any automobile accident, the consequences for all involved are potentially life altering and devastating. If you are in an accident contact your local motorcycle personal injury lawyer in Atlanta to get assistance. A professional familiar with the nuances of these complex issues is a great resource to consult in these situations and can help you determine damages, liability, and other factors relevant to the resolution of your matter.