One of the most common injuries you’ll experience in motorcycle accidents is road rash, but don’t let the casual-sounding name fool you. When your skin hits the road surface at high speed, it can result in severe abrasions that go far deeper than ordinary scrapes. The rough pavement can strip away layers of skin, possibly down to muscle tissue and even bone in the worst cases.
Nevertheless, the severity of road rash isn’t limited to the initial injury alone. You also can be at risk for serious infections, permanent scarring, and nerve damage, and to make things worse, find yourself in a legal battle.
This post will outline some common motorcycle injuries seen in New York and how you can get justice if, unfortunately, you’re involved in one. Read on to learn more.
1. Head and brain injuries
Even with a helmet, head injuries are still one of the major concerns of New York motorcycle accidents, and there are numerous litigation cases currently in court dealing with the same. These include anything from minor concussions to serious traumatic brain injury. This can happen in low-speed accidents too because the impact can cause your brain to bounce inside your skull.
Don’t hesitate to get the help of reliable New York motorcycle accident lawyers who can guide you through the legal process.
2. Spinal cord and back injuries
The spine is more vulnerable in motorcycle accidents, particularly in cases of high-impact speed or being flung from the motorcycle. Spinal cord injuries range from herniated disks to partial and complete paralysis. Forceful impact can compress vertebrae, damage nerve roots, or cause severe back muscle strain.
Many bikers do not realize that injuries to the back often manifest themselves over time after a motorcycle accident. What initially feels like minor soreness may end up as chronic pain or limits your mobility.
3. Bone fractures and joint injuries
On a motorcycle, your legs are most vulnerable during any accident. Fractured bones are common in legs, feet, and pelvis because these are the first impact points. Often, multiple area fractures are sustained, and sometimes surgery is required, which could mean lengthy periods of rehabilitation. The upper body-fractured parts, such as arms, wrists, and collarbones, are common when riders instinctively try to break their fall.
4. Internal injuries
The result of a motorcycle accident may lead to severe internal trauma, which may not immediately be evident. Even if there is no apparent external injury, your internal organs can be damaged from blunt force trauma. Internal bleeding, organ damage, and other internal injuries entail the need for immediate medical attention because it might lead to a life-threatening situation if treatment is late.
The Bottom Line
Motorcycle accidents in New York range from road rash and broken bones to head trauma to internal damage. In each injury, there is a separate battle, both physically and emotionally. The key to recovery is to understand those risks and take precautions such as properly gearing up and seeking immediate medical attention and an attorney’s services when one gets involved in a motorcycle accident.
