What are Some Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries?

Motorcycles provide virtually no protection to riders. Motorcycles do not have airbags, seatbelts, or a steel frame surrounding the occupants like other motor vehicles do. Therefore, it is common for even low speed Nevada motorcycle accidents to result in serious injuries or death. It is crucial that all riders obey Nevada law by wearing a helmet while practicing safe motorcycle riding habits to reduce their chances of suffering a life-changing injury.

What Types of Injuries Are Sustained in a Motorcycle Crash?

Head Injuries

Some of the most common motorcycle injuries suffered in Las Vegas motorcycle accidents involve head trauma, skull fractures and traumatic brain injuries. Even riders who wear a helmet are prone to suffering devastating head injuries if their head comes into contact with their motorcycle, another vehicle, or the roadway during a crash due to the blunt force trauma. Symptoms of these types of injuries range from headaches and nausea to complete changes in personality and loss of mental and physical abilities that could lead to permanent disabilities.

As a motorcycle rider, the best thing you can do to prevent injury when riding is wearing a helmet. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that wearing a helmet reduces your risk of sustaining a head injury by 69%, and of dying in a motorcycle accident by 37%. [1]

Spinal Cord Injuries

Victims of motorcycle accidents are also prone to suffering back and spinal injuries. Anytime the back is twisted, impacted, or crushed in a crash, there is the potential for the spinal cord to become damaged. In such cases, the victim may suffer from permanent nerve damage or paralysis of the body below the site of the trauma.

Road Rash

This is the most common injury in a motorcycle crash, which occurs when the rider’s skin scrapes against the pavement. Road rash can range from minor to severe, and can sometimes lead to infection. Skin abrasions can happen to any part of the body that comes in contact with the pavement, including elbows, knees, and hands. Muscle damage and loss of sensation can also occur.

Broken Bones

Bone fractures or broken bones are common in motorcycle crashes, particularly in the arms, legs, wrist and shoulder injuries. When the rider falls off the motorcycle, they can use their arms to break the fall. Leg injuries are surprisingly common . Broken ankles, knees, and hips can occur when a rider is thrown from their motorcycle or if they are hit by another vehicle. Foot injuries can also occur if the rider’s foot is trapped in the motorcycle after a crash.

Internal Injuries

In a motorcycle crash, the rider may suffer injuries such as internal organ damage or internal bleeding. These injuries are often serious and require immediate medical attention. Abdominal injuries are particularly dangerous and can occur when the rider is thrown from their motorcycle as there is minimal protection to prevent organ damage.

Burns

Motorcycle riders can suffer burns in a crash if their skin comes into contact with hot surfaces, such as the engine or exhaust pipe. Burns can range in severity from first-degree burns (mild) to third-degree burns (severe). Skin grafts may be necessary to treat more serious burns.

Neck Injuries

Whiplash, a neck injury caused by the head being suddenly jerked forward or backward, is common in motorcycle crashes. Neck injuries can also lead to nerve damage, muscle strain, and other complications.

Facial Injuries

In a crash, the rider’s face can take a direct impact with the ground or other objects, leading to cuts, bruises, or more severe injuries such as fractures or dislocated jaws.

Psychological Trauma

Motorcycle crashes can also cause significant emotional and psychological trauma to the rider, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression.

It’s important to note that every motorcycle crash is unique, and the injuries sustained will vary depending on factors such as speed, impact angle, and the rider’s body position during the crash. Chronic pain can result from any of the injuries listed above. Riders should always wear appropriate safety gear and be prepared for potential injuries in the event of a crash.

Legal Help in the Event of a Motorcycle Accident

Such injuries can result in costly surgical procedures or may need rehabilitative treatments over a long period of time. Injured victims of Las Vegas motorcycle accidents would be well advised to contact the experienced Las Vegas motorcycle accident attorneys at Shook & Stone who have a long and excellent track record of protecting the rights of motorcycle accident victims. Call us today at 702-570-0000 for a free and comprehensive consultation.