Motorcycle accidents can leave victims with a wide range of injuries
The attorneys at Glaser & Ebbs have been fighting for injured motorcyclists for more than three decades. We know how vulnerable they are out on the road. We know what can happen when negligent drivers cause a motorcycle accident because they were speeding, texting, or acting irresponsibly. And we’ve seen the impact that those accidents can have on victims.
Here are 10 common motorcycle accident injuries.
1. Abdominal injuries
During a crash, a biker’s abdomen can strike the gas tank or handlebars or make direct contact with the pavement. This can cause damage to the liver, spleen, kidneys, or intestines, as well as other injuries such as contusions.
2. Broken bones
Bones can be broken when a biker is struck directly by a car or thrown to the ground. Common areas of the body that suffer broken bones in accidents include the arms, legs, pelvis, ribs, neck, head, and face.
3. Burns
A biker can suffer burns through direct contact with hot surfaces on the bike, including the engine, exhaust pipe, or muffler. In some cases, an accident can result in a motorcycle catching on fire, causing burns. Contact with gasoline, oil, or brake fluid can cause chemical burns.
4. Foot and leg injuries
A motorcyclist’s foot or leg can be crushed or pinned under a motorcycle or other vehicle. Legs and feet can also become twisted or hyperextended if a biker is thrown from the bike.
5. Hand and arm injuries
When thrown to the ground, the natural instinct for motorcyclists is to hold out their hands to try to break their fall. This can result in sprains, strains, lacerations, and broken bones. A motorcyclist’s arms can also be crushed under the motorcycle or the other vehicle involved.
6. Head and neck injuries
While helmets provide protection, a motorcyclist can still suffer a skull fracture, especially in an accident involving high speed. Neck injuries include sprains, strains, and fractured vertebrae.
7. Road rash
During an accident, a motorcyclist can slide against the pavement for some distance before coming to a stop. The skin scrapes against the pavement, causing significant damage and exposing the underlying tissue. This can cause scarring, muscle damage, and puts the victim at risk of infection.
8. Spinal cord injuries
When thrown from a motorcycle, direct impact with a vehicle or the ground can result in a bruised, partially severed, or completely severed spinal cord. The result can be pain and/or paralysis.
9. Soft tissue injuries
Soft tissue includes muscles, ligaments, and tendons and can be stretched or torn during a motorcycle collision. An injury to a ligament is called a sprain, while an injury to a muscle or tendon is called a strain.
10. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
When a motorcyclist’s head strikes the ground or is struck by a car, there can be damage to the brain. Depending on the severity of the injury, the motorcyclist may suffer physical weakness, cognitive problems, or emotional problems. Concussions are the most common TBI suffered by motorcycle accident victims.
Call a motorcycle accident attorney who fights for injured bikers in Indiana
Negligent drivers often deny doing anything wrong after a motorcycle accident. Insurance companies aren’t much help, either. They’ll dispute the seriousness of your injuries or argue that they were pre-existing. They’ll often make you a lowball settlement offer that falls far short of covering the damages you’ve suffered.
That’s why you need an experienced motorcycle accident attorney on your side if you’ve been hurt in Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, or anywhere in Indiana. Our lawyers will investigate your accident to get the facts and build a strong case for compensation. We do not back down from insurance companies and will fight to get you the best possible outcome.
Learn more about how we can help. Contact us to schedule a free consultation at one of our office locations.