When a motorcycle collides with a larger vehicle, the rider is at risk of multiple injuries. Even with a helmet, they might suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Motorcyclists are also vulnerable to spinal cord injuries and serious soft tissue injuries as well as road rash or degloving incidents that cause severe damage to the skin.
Broken bones or fractures are also common motorcycle collision injuries. Unfortunately, the circumstances of motorcycle collisions often put people at risk for particularly severe fractures.
Not all broken bones are equal
Some fractures cause permanent functional limitations, severe scarring and even nerve damage. They may require physical therapy and surgery to treat. The extreme force of a motorcycle collision combined with the lack of safety systems to physically shield the body can increase the risk of a catastrophic fracture.
Motorcycle riders might suffer comminuted fractures due to blunt-force impact. The bone may break into many small pieces, resulting in a lengthy recovery and the risk of permanent symptoms.
Crashes can also cause open or compound fractures where the bone tears through the skin. They also require surgery to treat. They increase the risk of secondary medical complications, such as a deep tissue infection. The treatment and recovery costs of motorcyclists with broken bones may be much higher than that for people in vehicles in similar collisions.
When insurance is not adequate to address those costs, a lawsuit might be the best option. Working with a lawyer experienced in handling motorcycle crash injury cases can help injured riders hold drivers accountable and limit their financial losses.
