Learn about the common injuries bikers may face and the importance of sharing the road.
As Connecticut observes Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month to help prevent motorcycle accidents, drivers are reminded about the potential dangers bikers face when they're involved in crashes due to the reckless actions of others.
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road and can suffer severe injuries when accidents occur. Unlike drivers in enclosed vehicles, bikers don't have the safety features and protective framework offered by a car, truck, or SUV, leaving them more exposed to the impact of a collision.
This lack of physical protection increases the risk of severe injuries in a motorcycle accident, underscoring the importance of sharing the road and looking twice for bikers.
10 common motorcycle accident injuries
According to the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), in 2022, 62 riders lost their lives in Connecticut motorcycle accidents. That is the highest number of motorcycle fatalities the state has seen in over 30 years.
Some of the most common injuries sustained by motorcycle riders include:
- Head and Brain Injuries: Motorcycle accidents often result in head injuries, ranging from concussions to traumatic brain injuries. Head and brain injuries may require long-term treatment and have a lasting impact on victims and their loved ones.
- Fractures: The impact of a motorcycle accident can cause fractures in the limbs, pelvis, ribs, or spine. Fractures may require surgery, immobilization, and extensive rehabilitation.
- Biker's Arm: Biker's arm is a specific injury that occurs when a motorcyclist instinctively extends their arm during a crash, leading to nerve damage. It can result in long-term loss of sensation, weakness, or paralysis in the affected arm.
- Road Rash: When a motorcyclist slides across the pavement, they can suffer from road rash, which is severe abrasion to the skin. This can lead to infections, scarring, and long-term complications.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Accidents can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries significantly impact the victim's mobility and quality of life.
- Internal Injuries: The force of a motorcycle crash can cause internal injuries such as organ damage, internal bleeding, or ruptured blood vessels. Prompt medical attention is vital to address these injuries.
- Limb Amputations: Severe accidents can lead to traumatic limb injuries that may require surgical amputation. Losing a limb profoundly affects a person's independence and necessitates extensive rehabilitation.
- Facial Injuries: Motorcyclists are at risk of facial injuries, including fractures, lacerations, and dental damage. Treatment for these painful injuries may include reconstructive surgery and other serious medical procedures.
- Chest Injuries: Blunt force trauma to the chest can result in fractured ribs, collapsed lungs, or damage to internal organs like the heart or lungs. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Motorcycle accidents can cause soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruises. These injuries can be painful and may require physical therapy for recovery.
Studies show that motorcyclists are at least 25 times more likely to die in an accident and 5 times more likely to be injured, emphasizing the urgent need for increased awareness, safety measures, and responsible driving practices to protect motorcyclists.
Contact a Fairfield County, CT motorcycle accident lawyer
If you or your loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, you can count on Vishno Law Firm to protect your rights. Attorney Jeremy Vishno has extensive experience handling complex motorcycle accident cases and is dedicated to fighting for motorcycle accident victims in Fairfield County and throughout Connecticut.
Take the first step and contact us today for a free consultation to see how an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help you demand justice and accountability for your injuries. We are here to help.