Riding a motorcycle in Ohio offers a sense of freedom and speed you can’t get from a car. Unfortunately, the nature of motorcycles means you’re more exposed to the force of a collision, which makes catastrophic injuries more likely. Here are three common injuries from Ohio motorcycle accidents.
Road Rash
Road rash occurs when the force of a motorcycle crash throws a rider off their bike and causes them to skid across the pavement. These injuries often happen during high-speed crashes or when a rider swerves to avoid a collision.
Because riders lack a car’s protective shell, their skin is exposed to abrasive road surfaces. However, even protective clothing can wear through, especially in severe accidents.
The effects of road rash can range from mild abrasions to deep wounds that remove multiple layers of skin. In the short term, road rash can cause severe pain, bleeding, and a high risk of infection. Injured riders may require skin grafts or reconstructive surgery in more serious cases. Riders may deal with scarring, limited movement near joints, nerve damage, and emotional distress related to disfigurement in the long term.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) often occurs when a rider’s head hits the ground, a vehicle, or another object during a crash. While helmets significantly reduce the risk of severe head injuries, they can’t fully protect riders against the force of impact, especially in high-speed collisions. Because motorcyclists are so exposed and lack seatbelts or airbags, TBIs are more common in these crashes than in other accidents.
In the immediate aftermath, a TBI may cause symptoms like dizziness, nausea, memory problems, or loss of consciousness. A more severe injury can result in long-term issues with mental functions, speech and language issues, emotional instability, and an increased risk of seizures. Even so-called “mild” concussions can have lingering effects for weeks or months, and repeated injuries can cause permanent brain damage.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries in motorcycle accidents typically happen when the rider lands on their back or is crushed under the bike during impact. These injuries are particularly devastating because motorcycles offer little protection against falls or crushing forces. A sudden, violent impact to the spine can result in bruising, fractures, or even complete severing of the spinal cord.
In the short term, spinal cord injuries can cause intense pain, numbness, or paralysis below the point of injury. Depending on the injury’s severity, riders may also temporarily or permanently lose movement and sensation in their limbs.
Long-term outcomes for spinal cord injuries vary widely. Some riders may recover partial function with intensive therapy, while others may face lifelong paralysis, require assistive devices, or deal with complications like infections, muscle atrophy, and emotional trauma.
Injured in a Columbus Motorcycle Crash? Flickinger Legal Group Can Help
Flickinger Legal Group offers more than 30 years of experience in personal injury law for injured motorcyclists in Columbus and throughout Ohio. Attorneys Russ and Justin Flickinger are avid motorcyclists, giving them firsthand insight into the unique challenges riders face on the road. This personal experience means they understand the nuances of motorcycle accidents and are committed to helping you secure fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.
If you’re seeking dedicated representation from attorneys who truly understand motorcycling, contact Flickinger Legal Group. Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation.