What Are the Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries?
Riding a motorcycle offers an exhilarating sense of freedom, but that thrill also comes with significant injury risks. Unlike automobile passengers, motorcyclists have minimal protection, making them more vulnerable to catastrophic injuries in an accident. Understanding these risks and how to avoid them is crucial for every bike rider. The motorcycle accident attorneys at Patterson Legal Group have seen the devastating impact of these crashes firsthand. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries we’ve encountered and provide tips to help you stay safe on the road.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries: Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries
Head injuries are among the most serious consequences of a motorcycle crash. Even with helmet use, riders can suffer concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or skull fractures, which may lead to cognitive dysfunction, memory loss, or lifelong disabilities. Additionally, head injuries are a leading cause of motorcycle crash fatalities. To protect yourself from head trauma, always wear a DOT-approved helmet that is less than five years old, as the materials can deteriorate over time.
Common Motorbike Crash Injuries: Road Rash and Abrasions
Road rash is one of the most common injuries in bike wrecks. It happens when a rider is thrown from their bike and slides across the pavement, causing skin abrasions that can range from minor scrapes to deep wounds that affect nerves and muscles. In severe cases, road rash may leave permanent scarring or require skin grafts. To minimize the risk of road rash, always wear durable, full-coverage clothing made from materials like leather, ballistic nylon, or Kevlar. Make sure that your gear fits properly to reduce the chances of it shifting during a crash, thereby providing better protection.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries: Broken Bones and Fractures
Riding a motorbike at high speeds can lead to impacts that result in broken bones. Our motorcycle accident attorneys have successfully represented clients that have suffered broken arms, wrists, legs, ankles, ribs, and collarbones. These injuries can require surgery, physical therapy, and months of recovery, limiting your ability to work and lowering your quality of life.
To reduce the risk of broken bones, wear protective gear such as armored jackets, gloves, and pants designed to absorb impact. Additionally, practice defensive riding techniques, especially on high-risk roads like Kansas City’s I-35 or Topeka’s I-70, where congestion and driver negligence increase your chances of a wreck.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries: Spinal Cord and Neurological Damage
Motorcycle crashes can cause severe spinal cord injuries, including herniated discs, fractures, or even paralysis. Spine injuries are often life-changing, requiring long-term care and major lifestyle adjustments. Neurological damage may also occur, resulting in chronic pain, numbness, or limited limb response. To avoid spinal injuries, maintain a safe following distance and be cautious when navigating intersections, as many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield during left turns.
How to Avoid Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Preventing motorcycle injuries requires a combination of proper gear, defensive riding, and rider awareness. First, always wear a helmet and protective clothing, as these are your first line of defense in the event of a bike crash. Second, stay visible by using bright or reflective gear and avoiding the blind spots of larger vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, which are common on Missouri and Kansas roads. Third, avoid riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as impaired riding is a major cause of fatal accidents. Lastly, practice defensive riding by anticipating potential hazards, such as distracted drivers or uneven road surfaces, and consider taking a motorcycle safety course to sharpen your skills.
Driver Awareness is Essential to Preventing Accidents
Many bike accidents are caused by motorists who fail to see riders, particularly in blind spots. To help prevent this, always make eye contact with drivers at intersections and use your headlights 24/7. When riding through busy areas, like the downtown sections of Kansas City or St. Joseph, be extra cautious of vehicles making sudden lane changes or turns. Always signal your intentions clearly to give other motorists time to react.
Why Do I Need a Personal Injury Attorney?
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash due to the negligence or recklessness of another party, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical bills, ongoing treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Kansas and Missouri both follow comparative negligence rules, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault. This makes it essential to seek legal guidance from experienced motorcycle accident lawyers who can help you navigate the claims process.
The trial lawyers at Patterson Legal Group understand the complexities of motorcycle injury claims and are dedicated to winning you the highest settlement possible. Whether you’re riding in Topeka, Wichita, or anywhere in the region, our team is here to support you.
Handling a motorcycle accident claim on your own can be challenging, especially when dealing with insurance companies that will try to minimize your payout. An experienced legal team can help gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to build a strong case. The motorcycle accident lawyers at Patterson Legal Group have the knowledge and resources to advocate for your best interests. We encourage all riders to prioritize safety first, and also to know that legal help is available if the need arises.
Contact a Trusted Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near Me
The motorbike injury attorneys at Patterson Legal Group hope that you found this blog informative. Please share it with the motorcycle enthusiasts in your life to help keep everyone safe. Unfortunately, some accidents happen no matter how many precautions you take. If you’ve been injured in a bike crash caused by the actions or inactions of another party, then Patterson Legal Group can help you get the financial compensation you’re legally entitled to.
You can reach the motorcycle accident attorneys from Patterson Legal Group by phone at (888) 687-2400 and online through LiveChat or secure contact form. Our distinguished trial lawyers have successfully recovered top settlements for clients throughout Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Colorado. Don’t let the insurance company bully you into accepting anything less than you deserve. Fight back with Patterson Legal Group today.
