Common Injuries Sustained in New Hampshire Motorcycle Accidents
As we embark on peak riding season in New Hampshire, many motorcyclists are eager to hit the open road. However, with this excitement comes an increased risk of injury. Motorcycle accidents are generally more dangerous than other types of traffic crashes due to the lack of protective barriers and the relatively small size of motorcycles. While the risk of injury cannot be eliminated entirely, it can be reduced — and drivers sharing the road with bikers play the most critical role in preventing motorcycle collisions.
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, a time for drivers to reflect on the importance of watching for motorcycle riders and sharing the road. Unfortunately, even the most cautious riders can be involved in accidents caused by others, which can result in devastating injuries.
If you were injured in a motorcycle crash due to negligence, it is important to contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to protect your rights and review your potential legal options. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you recover the compensation you're entitled to under New Hampshire law.
What are the most common motorcycle accident injuries?
Motorcycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, with some being more common than others. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), bone fractures in the legs are among the most frequent injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents. However, injuries to the chest area and head can also be severe.
Here is a breakdown of some common injuries that bikers may sustain in a collision with a passenger vehicle such as a car, truck, or SUV:
Broken or Fractured Bones
Broken or fractured bones are common injuries in motorcycle accidents that can occur in various areas, including the femur, forearm, shin, ribs, and pelvis. The severity of the broken bone can vary, with some fractures requiring immobilization or surgery. In severe cases, limbs may need to be amputated as a result of the trauma sustained during the crash.
Road Rash
Road rash occurs when riders are thrown from their bikes and skid on the pavement, causing skin abrasions. Depending on the severity of the accident, road rash can range from minor scrapes to more severe injuries that can lead to infections and nerve damage. Lacerations, or deep cuts in the skin, are also common.
Head and Neck Injuries
While wearing a helmet provides some protection, bikers are still at high risk of head injuries when involved in traffic crashes. Common types of head and neck injuries include concussions, skull fractures, and whiplash. Depending on the severity, head and neck injuries can result in brain damage, facial disfigurement, and even death.
Facial Injuries
Facial injuries are a common consequence of motorcycle accidents and can have long-lasting effects on a rider's appearance and quality of life. Injuries may include cuts, bruises, fractures, and burns, leading to disfigurement, scarring, and loss of vision or hearing.
Spinal Cord Damage
Spinal injuries can lead to chronic pain, nerve damage, and paralysis. The thoracic spine is particularly susceptible to injury in high-speed motorcycle crashes, and in some cases, a permanent injury may be sustained.
Abdominal Injuries
Thoracic injuries (damage to the chest area) and abdominal injuries are common in motorcycle accidents and can result in lung lacerations, rib fractures, heart lacerations, and vascular injuries. These injuries can lead to organ damage and internal bleeding, which can have severe and sometimes fatal consequences.
Hand and Arm Injuries
Motorcyclists often instinctively throw their arms out during accidents, resulting in hand, wrist, and arm injuries. When a motorcycle lands on a rider's arm during an accident, it can cause nerve damage and result in an injury known as "Biker's Arm" or "Rider's Arm." This type of injury can have severe consequences, including nerve damage and arm paralysis.
Burns
If the motorcycle's gas tank spills during a wreck and the gas catches on fire, a rider can end up with severe burns. These injuries can be extremely painful and may require skin grafts, plastic surgery, and other medical procedures.
Muscle Injuries
Road rash is a common injury in motorcycle accidents, and in more severe cases, it can cause muscle damage. In addition to road rash injuries, back injuries sustained in a crash can also result in muscle soreness or injury. Seeking proper medical treatment and rehabilitation are critical to ensure a full recovery from these injuries.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Traumatic brain injuries are the leading cause of death among injured motorcyclists. The potential consequences of a TBI can also include cognitive impairment, memory loss, and chronic headaches.
Contact a New Hampshire motorcycle accident lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in New Hampshire, the experienced attorneys at Burns, Bryant, Cox, Rockefeller & Durkin, P.A. are here to help. We understand the severe and often catastrophic injuries that can result from a motorcycle crash, and we are committed to helping injured bikers obtain the compensation they deserve.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers have the knowledge and resources to thoroughly investigate your case and develop a strong legal strategy tailored to your specific situation. Don't wait to get the help you need - contact us today for a free case evaluation, and let us fight for your rights. Our offices are in Dover and Portsmouth, NH.
