The Most Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents in LaGrange, Georgia

Motorcycles are a cost-effective mode of transportation for many, while others enjoy hopping on a motorcycle for the thrill. Although riding a motorcycle is more popular than ever, there is always a risk of serious injury if another vehicle strikes you or your motorcycle slides off the road. At Moffitt Law, LLC, we have helped motorcycle victims seek financial compensation following accidents, and we encourage you to call us today. A LaGrange motorcycle accident lawyer looks at the most common injuries in a motorcycle accident.

Why Motorcycle Accident Injuries are So Serious

Motorcyclists lack any protective barrier between them and other vehicles, parked cars, or objects like fire hydrants. If they crash, motorcyclists can suffer major injuries. This is one reason that motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to die in an accident than someone riding in a car.

Here are some of the most common injuries in a motorcycle accident:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

The head is especially vulnerable in any type of collision, especially when a motorcyclist fails to wear a helmet. Georgia requires that all riders have protective headgear, but not everyone follows the law, and hundreds of people suffer preventable injuries.

Any violent blow to the head can cause a TBI. Some common symptoms include:

• Loss of balance
• Memory loss
• Blurred vision
• Mood swings
• Disrupted sleep schedule

A TBI requires rest, and there are few shortcuts to speed up the healing process.

Lower Extremity Injuries

Leg injuries are common in a motorcycle accident. In addition to fractures, riders can suffer a torn patella tear, ACL injury, or torn meniscus. A person might lose the ability to walk unassisted, or they might need to permanently wear a brace for added stability.

Do not overlook any feeling of weakness in your knee. This is a complicated joint, and some damage worsens over time if left untreated.

Biker’s Arm

This injury is also called “rider’s arm” and is characterized by nerve damage, weakness, and a tingling sensation in the arm and hand. Any violent blow to the chest or arm can damage the nerves running down to the hand.

Amputation

In gruesome accidents, a limb can be torn from a motorcyclist’s body. Other amputations stem from crush injuries and are an attempt to prevent greater complications, such as kidney damage, when skeletal muscle breaks down.

Contusions

A deep bruise can form anywhere on the body in response to blunt force trauma. A heart contusion is especially dangerous and can lead to cardiac arrest. However, contusions on other parts of the body could cut off blood flow and ultimately lead to limb loss.

Abrasions and Lacerations

Skin injuries are common after a motorcycle accident in Georgia. A biker could suffer a burn when they fall off a bike and their leg or arm touches the exhaust. Another risk is that exposed skin suffers a friction burn.

How to Reduce Motorcycle Accident Injuries

There is no way to fully eliminate the risk of an accident, but riders can minimize the odds by taking some sensible precautions:

• Wear a helmet that fits your head, and make sure the helmet has a face shield.
• Regularly service your motorcycle so it operates at peak performance.
• Wear protective clothing, including long-sleeved shirts and pants, regardless of the heat.
• Never speed or tailgate, and remember not to weave in and out of traffic.
• Avoid distractions. You should never look at your cell phone while out on a motorcycle. Always stay focused on the road ahead of you and be mindful of other traffic.
• Ride a motorcycle that fits your budget and your body size. Riding a bike that is too big is a good way to get into a collision.
• Build up to longer rides. A novice rider might not be ready for a two-day excursion. Start with small trips until you feel comfortable.

These safety tips can reduce a large percentage of accidents and help you survive those that you cannot avoid.

Call Our Office to Speak with an Attorney

Moffitt Law, LLC, is happy to represent anyone hurt by a motorcycle accident in Georgia. Our firm excels at piecing together what happened and pinpointing the right defendant to sue when a motorcyclist is hurt on the road. With us by your side, you can focus on healing while we handle all the legal work, including negotiation with the defendant’s insurer for a fair settlement. Contact us today to schedule a time to meet. We do not charge accident victims any fees unless we win their case.