If a motorcyclist is involved in an accident, the type of injuries they sustain can vary greatly depending on the impact. How the collision occurred, the motorbike speed and other elements can all affect the type of injury, the severity and where the body has received damage. For example, a fracture to the head of a motorcyclist can be one of the worse types of injuries, resulting in life-changing consequences.
This article will closely examine the most common motorbike injuries that appear following a motorbike accident.
1) Head Injuries
Head injuries can be one of the most common results of a motorbike accident and also one of the most serious. The head and neck region is one of the human’s most important body parts as it is critical for our day-to-day functioning. That’s why motorcyclists and cyclists are always recommended to wear approved helmets, a safety precaution that takes precedence over anything else. Helmets are highly effective in cushioning the head from impact upon collision and can be the difference between the possibility of recovery and death. Head injuries can include concussions, skull fractures, lacerations and much more. Any damage to the head can be extremely serious and lead to life-long complications.
2) Road Rash
‘Road rash’ is a type of injury that can typically be considered exclusive to motorcyclists or cyclists. This injury forms on the skin when an unprotected part of the body collides with the pavement at force. If a motorcyclist comes off their vehicle following a collision, there is a chance that the speed of the crash will force them to slide along the hard ground. When skin is exposed to the environment in this way, cuts and scrapes can form. Sometimes, this can lead to long-term effects such as irritation, infections and nerve damage. As with helmets, motorcyclists are encouraged to wear thick clothing when driving. Leather jackets, padded pants and thick gloves can reduce the risk of skin abrasions should the motorcyclist crash and fly off their motorbike.
3) Hearing Loss
Some motorbike injuries seem apparent, but hearing loss is perhaps something that not many think about. Hearing loss may occur not only because of a collision with another road user but also because of natural conditions. When driving at high speeds, more pressure is placed on the ears, leading to eardrum damage. The danger is greatly improved in bad weather conditions such as high winds. While helmets are an essential piece of equipment to protect yourself, noise levels can increase while wearing a helmet due to the confined space. Earplugs can help to protect your ears from high pressure.
4) Leg Injuries
Next up on our list of common motorbike injuries are those involving the lower body, such as the legs, knees and feet. Compared to the upper body, there is less chance of an injury-causing death. However, that doesn’t mean that leg injuries can’t be serious. These types of injuries can still cause lasting damage, which may also negatively impact your overall physical and mental health. Leg injuries can affect your ability to return to everyday life depending on the severity of the damage. In some cases, you may require surgery or amputation. This can leave you unable to walk of your own free will, and the road to recovery can be long and challenging.
5) Bone Fractures
Several areas of your body can be prone to a bone fracture, whether it’s your arms, hands or pelvis. In motorbike accidents, a broken leg is a very common cause. This often happens following a rough collision or if a heavy weight crashes down on the motorcyclist’s leg. Unlike motorists, motorcyclists don’t have the protection of seatbelts and a stable interior to cushion their impact. In most cases, a collision will result in the motorcyclist detaching from their vehicle and colliding with a hard object. As well as broken legs, wrists and arms, a motorcyclist fracture can frequently occur when the rider tries to shield themselves upon impact.
6) Spinal Injuries
Another common type of motorbike injury involves the spine. The spine is a vital body part, helping to support and connect several of our skeletal systems, including the vertebrae and nerves. Our spinal system controls many everyday functions such as standing, walking, twisting and sitting. Therefore, spinal injuries can significantly impact every aspect of our day-to-day life. Unable to perform simple tasks like moving causes severe disruption to life and generates psychological damage and emotional pain. Spinal injuries can also a range of other problems, including loss of sensation, loss of bowel control, exaggerated reflexes, and intense pain.
Have you been involved in a motorbike accident that wasn’t your fault? We are specialists in this area of law. Please contact us today for a free consultation to see whether you are eligible to claim compensation or use our motorcycle accident compensation calculator.