Motorcycle accidents can lead to serious injuries in Southern California. For those who have already experienced motorcycle accidents firsthand, this is a fact that hardly needs repeating. Motorcycle accident victims are already well aware of the long-term consequences of these accidents, and they may be struggling with expensive medical treatments, missed wages, emotional distress, and many other damages. Some may be dealing with permanent injuries that affect their ability to work or live a normal life. Others may lose their lives due to motorcycle accidents, leaving their families with serious financial burdens and lasting grief. But what are the most common injuries suffered after motorcycle accidents?
Fractures – Motorcyclists commonly suffer fractures after crashes. These might include arm fractures, leg fractures, collarbone fractures, pelvis fractures, and so on. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, many motorcyclists may fall onto their outstretched arms, causing a quick and un-expected, while very traumatic impact. Impacts with asphalt roads can easily break bones. Further, victims may also fall sideways onto their shoulders or legs, which can cause catastrophic injury as well. In some cases, legs can become wedged between heavy motorcycles and the road, causing fractures to ankles, knees, and other joints. In addition, a motorcyclist may be run over by other vehicles, causing additional crushing fractures to the ribs, pelvis, and other bone structures. No matter how the accident occurs, at any speed fractures are a real and looing concern.
Spinal Cord Injuries – A motorcyclist may suffer spinal cord injuries as a result of their accident. These injuries may occur due to head-on accidents where motorcyclists are thrown forward causing them to impact vehicles, barriers, and other structures headfirst. This can lead to the compression of the spine, breaking vertebrae, and other issues such as paralysis. Paralyzed victims may spend the rest of their days living with assistance from medical professionals, and may lose the ability to work.
Road Rash – One of the more minor injuries associated with a motorcycle accident is “road rash.” This is when the motorcyclist skids across the asphalt after being ejected. This skidding action can tear through even the most protective clothing, causing lacerations and removing entire layers of skin. Road rash can lead to serious scars and disfigurement, especially if it occurs on the facial area.
Head Injuries – Head injuries are common among motorcyclists, even for those who wear helmets. Motorcyclists are completely exposed to the elements, and even a slight knock on the head can cause serious consequences. Low-speed collisions may cause TBIs, concussions, brain damage, brain bleeds, and other related injuries. Higher-speed collisions can cause more serious brain injuries, such as penetrating brain injuries, where foreign objects move through the skull and into the brain.
Even the most minor head injuries can cause long-term issues, such as:
- Balance issues
- Vision problems
- Hearing problems
- Personality changes
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Cognitive decline
- Motor control issues
- Social withdrawal
- Memory loss
The exact issues depend on the area of the brain that is affected. Some areas are responsible for certain thought processes, such as hand-eye coordination or memory. Unfortunately, many of these issues become progressively worse with time. This is why it is so important for motorcycle accident victims to get tested for brain injuries as soon as possible after their accidents. In many cases, victims may be totally unaware of the extent of their brain injuries. Memory loss may cause a victim to forget about their accident and its details. Meanwhile, potentially fatal problems such as brain bleeds could be growing progressively worse.
Fatalities – Arguably the worst possible outcome of a motorcycle accident is death. This is relatively common, especially with accidents at high speeds. Brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal organ damage can all prove to be fatal, even after patients are rushed to nearby hospitals after their accidents. These fatalities may result in wrongful death lawsuits. These lawsuits allow surviving family members to hold negligent parties accountable and recover compensation for funeral expenses, unpaid medical expenses, future missed wages, and more.
Where Can I Find an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Southern California?
If you have been searching for an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Rancho Cucamonga, look no further than Miracle Law, APC. Over the years, we have helped numerous plaintiffs, including those who have been harmed in motorcycle accidents. With our assistance, motorcycle accident victims can pursue compensation and justice for their various damages. These might include medical expenses, missed wages, and emotional distress. While internet research serves as a positive first step, it cannot provide you with personalized legal advice. For this, you will need to book a consultation. Reach out today to get started with an effective action plan.