5 Serious Injuries Associated with Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycling is a common hobby and daily mode of transportation in Arizona, where the landscape is beautiful, and the weather is primarily dry. However, it can also be a rather dangerous activity when drivers fail to take extra precautions for themselves and the vehicles around them.
Serious injury and death are a common occurrence among motorcyclists in the greater Phoenix area because motorcycles are harder for car drivers to see if they are not paying full attention to their surroundings.
Here are the most common injuries suffered by motorcycle drivers in Arizona. Additionally, if you or someone you love drives a motorcycle and is injured as a result of another driver’s negligence, you should speak with an Arizona accident attorney right away, as you may be eligible for compensation.
Broken Bones
In motorcycle accidents, riders often get thrown from their bikes. They may end up in the path of oncoming traffic or strike hard objects on the side of the road.
This can typically lead to broken limbs or ribs. If you find yourself thrown from your bike and you suspect that you have one or more broken bones, do your best to stay still and request for someone to call you an ambulance.
If you are thrown into oncoming traffic and are able to crawl out of harm’s way, get to a safe place and then ask for assistance from people nearby.
Spine Injuries
The spine extends from the base of your skull down to your hips. Because your spine is a highly complex mix of bone, muscle, nerves, and elastic, adhesive discs, any number of injuries can affect the spine.
In the worst of spinal injuries, a broken back can result in paralysis of the body. While some may recover from paralysis, most endure it for the remainder of their lives.
Less severe spinal injuries include pinched nerves, a sprained back, ruptured discs, or multiple muscle strains.
If you suspect a spinal injury in the wake of an accident, it is vital that you remain as still as possible until paramedics can properly transport you to the emergency room.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
In the latest statistics gathered on motorcycle drivers (from a study conducted in 2017), 35% still ride without helmets. It is, perhaps, the most significant safety oversight in the history of traffic accident injuries.
Without neither a helmet nor the protection of walls and airbags, nearly 100% of motorcycle accidents result in a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Thankfully, many TBIs heal entirely after a few days of rest, but some TBIs can result in further harm. The brain damage can result in someone transforming into a vegetative state.
Severe Skin Abrasions
Commonly known as “road rash,” motorcycle skin abrasions are often more severe than minor cuts and scrapes.
Riders can often slide on asphalt for long distances before coming to a stop. Without the proper motorcycle apparel, skin abrasions can be so severe that they result in 3rd-degree burns and muscle and/or bone are exposed.
Aside from the extreme pain resulting from these kinds of abrasions, massive scaring can be permanent. Additionally, an infection can easily set in, that (if left untreated) could result in limb amputation.
Death
Motorcyclists have died in accidents as simplistic as “fender benders.” They are easily lost in car blind spots, and there is very little protection.
If you or someone you love rides a motorcycle, you should exercise caution and look out for careless drivers. Recognize that most drivers are not keeping their eye out for you.
One of the advantages that motorcyclists do have is maneuverability. By exercising caution, driving defensively, and improving your skill level, you will be able to avoid most accidents before they can occur.
For more information about how an Arizona motorcycle accident attorney can help you with your case, contact Ray Arenofsky at 480-345-0444 or visit our website.
