Whether you ride for sport, business, or personal enjoyment, motorcycling is often a reliable form of transportation, providing access to areas that most vehicles can’t reach. However, even for the most cautious riders, accidents can occur. Tragically, most motorcycle accidents result in permanent injury. Many motorcyclists suffer life-threatening injuries, and others lose their lives on the road due to others’ negligence.
The risky nature of riding alongside large vehicles or on rough terrain makes accidents involving motorcycles particularly alarming. The absence of comprehensive protective safety equipment doubles the likelihood of riders and passengers suffering serious harm. While helmets play a crucial role in shielding a rider’s head from injury during an impact, there are no laws mandating their use, and many riders choose to forgo them.
Since these crashes continue to pose a public safety concern, understanding the potential injuries from a motorcycle accident in Katy is vital. Knowing what to expect and the subsequent steps to take can be life-saving. Our seasoned motorcycle accident attorneys have decades of experience handling such cases and possess an extensive understanding of the intricacies involved.
Head Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A TBI occurs when the brain sustains trauma due to a head injury. When the head is jolted forcefully or struck, the risk of experiencing a traumatic brain injury rises. The severity of these injuries depends on various factors, such as whether the rider was wearing a helmet, the types of vehicles involved, road conditions, and the speed of the motorcycle. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that motorcyclists wearing helmets are less likely to suffer a serious TBI compared to those who don’t.
Broken Bones and Fractures
When a motorcycle veers off the road and collides with another vehicle, it’s not unusual for the rider to be thrown from the motorcycle. Upon impact with the ground, the rider’s body parts, such as arms and legs, may be forced into unnatural positions, often leading to fractures or broken bones. While these injuries can occur anywhere, they are particularly common in the limbs.
Road rash refers to a type of skin abrasion or burn that occurs when a body part scrapes against asphalt or other roadway surfaces. This injury is most common in situations where the rider is thrown from their motorcycle and skids along the road before coming to a stop. While some road rash injuries may be minor, they are often excruciatingly painful. Some cases may require skin grafting to repair the damage, while others might lead to permanent scarring.
The spinal cord, being one of the most vital and delicate parts of the body, can suffer severe consequences from trauma or blunt force. Depending on the location and extent of the injury, the victim might face permanent or temporary disability. Treatment for serious spinal cord injuries can be highly expensive. If you experience such an injury, consider consulting an experienced Katy spinal cord injury attorney to determine if you have a valid compensation claim.
Whether a motorcyclist is thrown from their bike or collides with another vehicle, the risk of internal organ damage is ever-present. These injuries can be life-threatening, especially since they may not be immediately visible or apparent. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical, as delays can lead to further harm or even death. Internal bleeding is a common complication in such scenarios. Some of the body parts most at risk include:
Whiplash is an injury that occurs when your body is suddenly jolted in a manner it’s not meant to be, typically affecting the neck area. If you experience pain or discomfort in this region, it’s possible that you have sustained a whiplash injury. Fortunately, these injuries are generally not life-threatening and may heal within a few days or weeks with proper physical therapy. However, you should still see a doctor especially when you experience unusual discomfort in the neck area. He or she will review the extent of harm you suffered.
If you’ve suffered injuries following a motorcycle accident in Katy, we urge you to retain a skilled lawyer from our firm to review the specific details of your case. If it’s established that your injuries were the result of someone else’s negligence, you may be eligible for compensation. To begin the process of seeking the justice you deserve, call us today.
