Common Injuries In Motorcycle Accidents

Head And Brain Injuries: The Most Serious Risks

Motorcyclists and their passengers do not have the same protections as drivers in cars and trucks. Their only protection is their clothing, and if they wear a helmet.  

Head and brain injuries are the most serious injuries motorcyclists can sustain, especially when they do not wear helmets. Some common types of head and brain injuries from motorcycle accidents include:

• Skull fractures
• Scalp lacerations
• Subdural hematomas
• Concussions
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Brain damage
• Cerebral contusions
• Long-term neurological and cognitive issues

In Colorado, motorcycle laws do not require helmets, even though they are proven to help save lives. The CDC found that wearing helmets was 37% and 41% effective in preventing deaths for rides and passengers, respectively. They also help reduce the risk of serious head and brain injuries by 69%. 

Spinal Cord Injuries: Long-Term Consequences

Spinal cord injuries are another common motorcycle accident injury. When the spinal cord is damaged, it can result in chronic pain, partial or full paralysis, and other health issues. The impacts of spinal cord injuries can require:

• Ongoing and extensive medical care
• Alterations to make one’s home more accessible
• Reduced overall quality of life 

Broken Bones And Fractures: Common But Painful

The force of impact from being hit by a car or truck or having one’s bike land on top of them can cause broken bones and fractures. Surgery, physical therapy, and occupational therapy may be required to recover fully. Commonly broken and fractured bone injuries from motorcycle accidents include:

• Arms, hands, legs, and feet
• Ribs
• Spine
• Pelvis
• Skull
• Face
• Collarbone

Road Rash And Skin Injuries: Why Protection Matters

Road rash is a common motorcycle accident injury where the motorcyclist or passenger makes contact with the road. Any exposed skin will likely suffer cuts, scrapes, abrasions, and contusions. 

In some cases, road rash injuries can penetrate deep into the skin, which could result in permanent damage, scarring, and disfigurement. Wearing jeans, jackets, gloves, and boots that cover the ankles can help reduce the extent of road rash and skin injuries. 

Internal Injuries: Often Overlooked But Critical

Internal injuries from motorcycle accidents can and do occur. The blunt force of impacts with another vehicle and the pavement can increase the risks of internal injuries, which could include:

• Internal bleeding
• Tears in veins and arteries
• Organ damage
• Intracranial hemorrhages
• Soft tissue, muscle, joint, and tendon injuries
• Collapsed lungs

So, it is imperative to be thoroughly examined after a motorcycle accident to rule out any internal injuries that could become life-threatening. 

Psychological Injuries: Emotional And Mental Impact Of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can be a traumatic experience for the victim, and result in emotional and mental injuries, such as:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• PTSD
• Phobias and fears
• Sleep disturbances
• Nightmares 
• Emotional detachment

How To Protect Your Rights After A Motorcycle Accident

After a motorcycle accident in Colorado, the current statute of limitations allows you three years to file your claim. However, to protect your legal rights, it is recommended that you file your claim as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more difficult it can be to preserve evidence, obtain witness statements, and recall the events of the accident. 

Important steps to follow after being injured in a motorcycle accident are listed below:

• Report the accident: Colorado law requires any traffic accident that results in property damage, injuries, or death to be reported immediately. Even when you are involved in a minor motorcycle accident with no injuries but property damages, you must report it.
• Seek medical treatment: Having your injuries treated should always be the top priority after a motorcycle accident. Delaying treatment could result in complications and life-threatening issues. 
• Gather evidence: If possible, take pictures and videos of the accident scene, including damages to your motorcycle and the vehicle that hit you. Attempt to obtain contact details for any witnesses and the at-fault driver. 
• Speak to a motorcycle accident lawyer: Once your injuries have been treated and you are stabilized, schedule a free consultation with a lawyer, as motorcycle accident injury claims can be quite complex. 

Why You Need A Personal Injury Lawyer For Your Motorcycle Accident Claim

Most people are surprised to learn that the majority of motorcycle crashes are caused by another motorist, not a motorcyclist. Unfortunately, most motorists will try to say the motorcyclist was at fault. Obtaining help from an experienced personal injury lawyer makes it easier to secure a favorable settlement, and provides these benefits:

• Free consultation: You can speak to a lawyer for free to find out how to protect your legal rights, the value of your claim, and how best to proceed with your case.  
• Navigating the claims process: Your lawyer understands the complexities involved with motorcycle accident claims, as well as all relevant traffic and tort laws that apply to your case. 
• Gathering evidence: Depending on your injuries, you may not have been able to gather evidence at the time of your accident. Your lawyer will obtain the police report, medical records, and other vital evidence to build a strong case.
• Filing all paperwork: Your lawyer files your motorcycle accident injury claim with the insurance company, and all legal paperwork with the appropriate court.
• Demanding payment and negotiations: Having an injury lawyer ensures you claim the maximum compensation you are entitled to. They also handle all negotiations with the insurance company to secure a favorable settlement. 
• Representing you in court: If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer aggressively litigates on your behalf in court to secure a favorable verdict.

Contact Bachus & Schanker: Get The Legal Help You Need Today

Bachus & Schanker helps ensure our clients get the compensation they deserve for their motorcycle injuries. In cases where there are catastrophic injuries or wrongful death, clients have access to our Victims’ Advocates to provide added support and guidance during this challenging time. 

Our motorcycle accident attorneys are caring, compassionate, and empathetic to you and your family. We have access to the resources and expertise to ensure you get a favorable settlement. Schedule your free consultation now. 

Related Motorcycle Accidents Resources