Motorcyclists are vulnerable. When crashes happen, motorcyclists are seriously hurt at a rate that is approximately 25 times higher than that of the drivers of passenger cars. Motorcycle accident injuries can vary widely in their kind, cause, and severity. At The Persons Firm, LLC, we handle all types of motorcycle crash injuries. Here, our Marietta motorcycle accident lawyer discusses the most common injuries in Georgia.
An Overview of Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Road Rash and Other Soft Tissue Damage
Sliding across pavement often causes abrasions known as road rash. Mild cases involve surface skin irritation and bruising. More serious abrasions damage deeper tissue and may require wound care or skin grafting. Even when the injury heals, scarring and nerve sensitivity can remain. These injuries require prompt medical attention from a qualified doctor.
Shoulder and Rotator Cuff Injuries
Many motorcyclists deal with shoulder injuries after a crash. When a rider braces during a fall, the shoulder often absorbs the impact. Dislocations, rotator cuff tears, and labral injuries are common. These injuries make lifting and overhead movement painful. Some require surgery and long-term physical therapy for a full recovery.
Facial Injuries, including Dental Trauma
A crash can result in broken teeth, jaw fractures, or orbital injuries. Even with a helmet, facial impact may occur. These injuries affect speech, chewing, and appearance. Corrective treatment often involves oral surgery and other reconstructive procedures. These are serious injuries that can have a major impact on a person’s life.
Broken Bones
Fractures frequently occur when a rider is thrown from the motorcycle. Wrists, arms, ribs, and collarbones break during impact with the ground. More severe crashes can cause compound fractures in the legs or pelvis. A broken bone is always a serious injury. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
Lower Extremity Injuries
Motorcycles provide little protection for the legs. Side-impact crashes often crush knees, ankles, or lower legs beneath the bike. Ligament tears and joint instability may follow. These injuries can limit mobility long after the initial recovery period. It is crucial that injured motorcyclists in Georgia get the proper rehabilitative care for any leg injury.
Psychological Trauma
A violent crash can leave long-lasting and even outright debilitating emotional effects. In fact, some injured riders develop anxiety, sleep disruption, or post-traumatic stress symptoms. Fear of returning to the road is common. Mental health treatment may become necessary as part of the recovery process. Mental health support may be a covered damage in a personal injury claim.
Internal Injuries
Blunt-force trauma to the chest or abdomen can damage internal organs. Internal bleeding may not be immediately obvious. Without prompt diagnosis and treatment, these injuries can become life-threatening. It is imperative that any suspected internal injury from a motorcycle crash in Georgia is evaluated by a doctor right away. These injuries are too often more severe than realized.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Head trauma remains one of the most serious motorcycle-related harms. A concussion may cause headaches, confusion, and memory issues. More severe brain injuries can impair cognition, behavior, and motor function. The long-term impact can alter every aspect of a person’s life.
Safety Tip: Although it cannot completely eliminate the risk, motorcyclists in Georgia should always wear a properly-fitted safety helmet. Motorcycle helmets can help to prevent brain injuries and save lives. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that motorcycle helmets reduce the risk of brain injury by as much as 70 percent.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Damage to the spinal cord can disrupt nerve communication between the brain and body. Partial injuries may cause chronic pain or weakness. Severe trauma can result in permanent paralysis. These cases involve lifelong medical care and substantial financial consequences. By definition, any amount of damage to the spinal cord is a catastrophic injury.
Amputations
The loss of a limb in a motorcycle crash is devastating. In the most catastrophic crashes, limbs may be crushed beyond repair. In some cases, surgical amputation may be required to save the injured victim’s life. Recovery involves prosthetics, physical therapy, and significant lifestyle adjustments. The physical and emotional toll is profound.
Recovering Full and Fair Compensation for a Motorcycle Wreck
Hurt in a motorcycle crash in Marietta or elsewhere in the wider region of Georgia? You have the right to seek compensation for the full value of your damages, including non-economic losses. With that being said, injured motorcyclists can face some serious challenges from insurance companies. Our Marietta, GA motorcycle accident attorney can help. Along with other types of damages, you may be entitled to financial compensation for:
- Motorcycle repairs or replacement;
- Ambulance costs;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills and other medical expenses;
- Physical therapy or rehabilitative care;
- Loss of wages and loss of earning power;
- Pain and suffering & mental distress;
- Long-term disability; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
Injured Motorists in Marietta Trust The Persons Firm
Following a serious motorcycle crash, injured victims need justice, accountability, and the maximum available financial support. At The Persons Firm, LLC, we are a boutique personal injury firm that goes above and beyond in motorcycle accident injury claims. Our case results tell the story best. You can reach out to us at our Marietta office for a free consultation after any type of motorcycle injury. We have the specialized knowledge and personal injury experience that injured motorcyclists can rely on. Our firm is relentless in holding insurance companies accountable. We represent injured riders on contingency. You never have to worry about upfront costs or out-of-pocket fees.
Contact Our Marietta, GA Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
At The Persons Firm, LLC, our Marietta motorcycle accident lawyer is an aggressive advocate for justice. If you or your loved one was hurt in a bad motorcycle crash, we can help. Contact us today to arrange your no-cost, no-obligation initial case review. With an office in Marietta, we handle motorcycle accident injury claims throughout the region, including in the zip codes of 30060, 30061, 30062, 30063, 30064, 30065, and 30066.