Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Summertime means more time outdoors. For many people, that also means more time spent riding motorcycles rather than automobiles. Motorcycles are a lot of fun, and there are a lot of great roadways in Metro Atlanta and North Georgia to enjoy a ride.

Sadly, more motorcycles on the road also means the likelihood of more motorcycle accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), each year, almost 100,000 people are injured in motorcycle accidents. Around 5,000 people are killed in motorcycle accidents.

Motorcycle Accident Injuries

At The Embry Law Firm, we represent clients who have been injured in motorcycle accidents. We understand that the trauma and strain of an accident extends beyond the victim to his or her loved ones. Our law firm helps clients who have suffered the following injuries in a motorcycle accident:

Spinal Cord Injuries – The impact of a collision with another vehicle or the road and cause damage to the spinal cord. In severe cases, this results in permanent damage or paralysis.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – The NHTSA estimates that 15 percent of motorcyclists wearing a helmet suffer a TBI. Around 21 percent of unhelmeted riders suffer a TBI.

Internal Injuries – Blunt-force trauma from a motorcycle accident can lead to organ damage or internal bleeding. If the victim lands on a sharp object, penetration trauma can also damage organs or internal tissue.

Lower-Extremity Injuries – Motorcyclists are more vulnerable to crush or break injuries to the lower extremities in an accident. Motorcycles offer little protection for riders, and leg fractures are among the most common injury.

Road Rash – When skin comes in contact with the road, it is called “road rash”. Severe abrasions can scrape skin and tissue away from the bone. These injuries are susceptible to infection, and often case permanent scars.

Fractures – Because motorcyclists have little protection, when an accident occurs, they are more likely to suffer fractured bones. Fractures to the arms and hands are common.

Dislocations – Any time there is force applied to the shoulders or arm, there is a chance of dislocation. Dislocated shoulders are a common injury in motorcycle accidents.

Sprains/Strains – Strain, tension, unusual movements, or overexertion can cause sprains or strain to the tendons, ligaments, and muscles. These injuries are painful and can lead to long-term requirement of physical therapy. If tendons or ligaments are stretched too far, they may require surgical repair.

Burns – Most automobiles, and certainly motorcycles, have engines that use gasoline to operate. When engines are running, the metal components can become extremely hot. In an accident, prolonged exposure to metal components can cause burn injuries. If the gas tank spills during the accident, there is the additional risk of fire-related burn injuries.

Emotional Trauma – Though more difficult to observe with the eye, emotional trauma is a significant injury that is common in motorcycle accidents. When a traumatic accident occurs, especially if anyone is killed, it is common for surviving victims to seek counseling or therapy. The impact of physical injuries can also have a profound impact on the mental health of those involved, especially if the injuries are life-altering, such as those causing permanent disability or disfigurement.

What to Do after a Motorcycle Injury

After a motorcycle accident, don’t settle for whatever initial offer an insurance company makes. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma. The best way to find out what you may qualify for is to contact a personal injury attorney to discuss your case.

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, and another driver was at fault, contact The Embry Law Firm today at 1-844-44EMBRY. We help clients all over Metro-Atlanta protect their rights after auto accidents. No matter what sort of injury you sustained, we can help ensure that you get the compensation you need, and deserve.

“The Embry Law Firm is exceptional, and straightforward. Bethany came to the hospital to check on me and made sure me and family were a priority though out the entire process. She told me what to expect from day 1 and followed through on what she said. I was very pleased with the performance of her as well as her staff. I would definitely recommend her.” – Viondi White