Road Hazards: Exploring the Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycles are small, light, and zippy vehicles. Motorcycle riders are also more exposed to the road than they would be in passenger vehicles. As a result, motorcycle accidents tend to produce more catastrophic injuries than other types of motor vehicle crashes. The resulting injuries often demand more extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation. In some cases, the injuries change a motorcycle rider’s life forever. This article looks closely at some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries. 

Types of Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Houston

Houston is a bustling city with fast speed limits and wide highways full of traffic, which are prime conditions for a severe accident. In our practice, some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries we see are: 

  • Road rash and skin abrasions — Road rash from skidding on pavement is the most common motorcycle accident injury. A severe case could lead to infections or lasting nerve damage.
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI) — Traumatic brain injury is the number one cause of death in motorcycle accidents. These head injuries can range from concussions to internal bleeding. They can have lasting consequences even in mild cases. That’s why wearing a helmet for each ride is essential for motorcycle riders.
  • Neck injuries and whiplash — Inertia, paired with the sheer force of impact from a motorcycle accident, can lead to whiplash or other neck injuries.
  • Spinal cord injury — Spinal injuries from a motorcycle accident can lead to permanent nerve damage, chronic pain, and paralysis.
  • Broken bones — Fractures, especially in the limbs, ribs, and pelvis, are common in motorcycle accidents. Upper extremity injuries and lower extremity injuries are prevalent.
  • Burns — Serious burns can happen if a damaged motorcycle spills gas or oil. A road rash is also a type of burn.
  • Internal organ damage — Not every injury after a motorcycle accident is visible. Blunt-force trauma or a broken rib can puncture, cut, or bruise a vital organ. 
  • Head and facial injuries — Facial and head injuries from motorcycle accidents can cause permanent scarring and disfigurement, as well as dental injuries.
  • Emotional trauma — The experience of being involved in a motorcycle accident can be highly traumatic and lead to PTSD and other mental health issues.

Additionally, due to their lack of structural protection, motorcycle accident victims often get thrown from their vehicles. For this reason, fatal injuries may occur as well.

Maximizing Compensation: Uncovering Damages for Motorcycle Injury Victims

In Texas, motorcycle accident survivors can pursue compensation from the at-fault party for losses that include: 

  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Rehabilitation expenses
  • Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
  • Physical pain
  • Emotional suffering and distress
  • Lost quality of life
  • Disability
  • Disfigurement
  • Repairs/replacements for the motorcycle and property
  • Therapeutic modifications or alterations to the home.

Why You Need a Lawyer for Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Houston

After most motorcycle accidents, the legal process is too complex for victims and their families to try to handle on their own. This is especially true when the victims are dealing with a serious head injury, multiple fractures, spine injury, debilitating soft tissue injuries, emotional trauma, or other harm caused by the crash. 

Insurance companies typically try to minimize liability claims or deflect blame from negligent customers to protect their bottom line. Without a legal team to guide you, gathering the evidence you need for insurance negotiations and lawsuits will likely be more challenging. Moreover, you risk getting pressured into a lowball settlement that will not fully and fairly compensate you.

A skilled personal injury attorney will know how Texas law applies to your situation and use it to bolster your case. They can also calculate the accident’s long-term financial impact, gather strong supporting evidence, and handle negotiations and litigation on your behalf so you can focus on your recovery.

Ride Toward Justice: Connect with Our Houston Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Today

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in the Greater Houston area, you can trust the firm of Fibich, Leebron, Copeland & Briggs to protect your rights. Our team has more than a century of combined legal experience. Since 1992, we have successfully recovered more than $1 billion in settlements and awards for accident victims, including those injured in motorcycle crashes and other motor vehicle accidents. Contact us today to learn more in a free consultation with one of our highly experienced and dedicated motorcycle injury attorneys in Houston.