Collisions between motorcycles and cars can be extremely hazardous due to the significant differences in size and structure of the vehicles involved. The vulnerability of motorcyclists is heightened as they lack the protective framework of a car, increasing the risk of severe injuries or fatalities. The impact of such accidents can lead to devastating consequences, including head injuries, fractures, spinal cord damage, and even psychological trauma for both the motorcyclist and occupants of the car.
Each year there are around 89,000 motorcycle accidents in our country. Based on the number of registered motorcyclists, that number equates to just over 1% of motorcycle riders being involved in motorcycle accidents each year. This is true across the country, and in our local area as well. Minneapolis, Minnesota, has a significant number of motorcycles on its roads. Sadly, motorcycle accidents and the need for a Minneapolis motorcycle accident lawyer is not uncommon. While your injuries and bills may very well likely be the responsibility of another driver, they won’t automatically be held accountable for them without filing a claim.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accidents can yield a variety of injuries, some of which can be severe due to the limited protection available to riders. The specific injuries sustained in such accidents depend on factors like collision speed, impact type, protective gear worn, and other circumstances. Several of the most commonly observed injuries after a motorcycle accident include:
Head Injuries: Minnesota law does not require all drivers to wear a motorcycle helmet, although it is recommended. Even with helmets, motorcycle accidents pose a significant risk of head injuries, ranging from concussions and bruises to more serious traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) with enduring cognitive effects or disabilities.
Road Rash: Road rash is an abrasion caused by friction. It happens to your skin when it gets scraped off by a hard surface. Road rash occurs when a motorcyclist’s skin makes contact with the road surface during a crash or slide, resulting in friction burns and abrasions. The severity of road rash can vary, with deep abrasions necessitating skin grafting or leading to scarring.
Fractured and Broken Bones: Motorcycle accidents can cause fractures and breaks in various parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, wrists, ankles, and ribs. These injuries often require surgical treatment, immobilization using casts or splints, and a rehabilitation period. The costs associated with these treatments can be significant.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents can lead to partial or complete paralysis, with lifelong consequences. Extensive medical treatment, physical therapy, and the use of adaptive equipment may be necessary to manage these injuries.
Additional Limb Injuries: Motorcyclists commonly experience limb injuries, including dislocations, sprains, strains, and ligament damage. Severe fractures or crush injuries may require surgery, physical therapy, or, in extreme cases, amputation.
Internal Injuries: The impact of a motorcycle accident can cause internal injuries such as organ damage, internal bleeding, or injuries to the chest or abdomen. Immediate medical attention and surgical intervention may be necessary to address these injuries.
Facial Injuries: Motorcycle accidents frequently result in facial injuries, including fractures, lacerations, dental injuries, and eye injuries. While full-face helmets can mitigate these injuries, severe collisions can still lead to their occurrence.
Psychological Trauma: Motorcycle accidents can instigate psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and emotional distress stemming from the terrifying nature of such incidents.
Accidents cannot be entirely eliminated, even with proper safety measures being taken. You can’t control the other drivers on the road. Their actions, or inactions, could be causing a serious problem in your life. If you find yourself in pain with mounting medical bills despite your precautions, we recommend seeking the assistance of a Minneapolis motorcycle accident lawyer. To have a valid claim, it must be demonstrated that the car driver was negligent and breached their duty of care. Actual damages resulting from the accident, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, must also be proven. If the car driver is insured, their insurance policy may cover the motorcyclist’s injuries and damages.
Contact 1-800-Injured
Make today the day it all begins to get better. Consulting with a Minneapolis truck accident lawyer will ensure that your rights are protected and you receive the necessary legal representation to pursue a fair resolution and compensation for your injuries and damages. You can be connected with the right legal professional by contacting 1-800-Injured.
We are a medical and legal directory and will connect you with the right personal injury lawyer for your specific motorcycle-related case. You don’t have long to do so. It’s crucial to be aware of the statute of limitations and consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in motorcycle accidents who can provide guidance and legal representation throughout the process. Don’t delay another day; reach out to us right away.