Motorcycle Accidents

Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries and Their Long-Term Impact

By Edward Baum
Quick Summary

Common motorcycle injuries: road rash, fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal injuries. Many require surgery, extensive rehab, and result in permanent disability. Full compensation must cover lifetime costs.

Motorcyclists are vulnerable road users. Without the protection of a vehicle frame, injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents are often severe and life-changing.

Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

1. Road Rash

Despite protective gear, sliding across pavement causes:

  • Severe skin abrasions
  • Embedded debris requiring surgical cleaning
  • Permanent scarring
  • Risk of infection
  • Need for skin grafts in severe cases

2. Fractures and Broken Bones

The impact and fall commonly cause:

  • Broken arms, wrists, and collarbone from trying to break the fall
  • Leg and ankle fractures from bike impact
  • Pelvic fractures in high-speed crashes
  • Multiple surgeries and months of immobility

3. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Even with a helmet, TBIs occur from violent impacts:

  • Concussions
  • Brain bleeding and swelling
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Memory problems
  • Personality changes
  • Long-term disability

4. Spinal Cord Injuries

Back and neck injuries can result in:

  • Paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia)
  • Chronic pain
  • Loss of sensation
  • Permanent disability
  • Lifetime medical care needs

5. Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma causes:

  • Organ damage (liver, spleen, kidneys)
  • Internal bleeding
  • Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
  • Often requiring emergency surgery

6. Limb Amputation

Severe crush injuries may necessitate:

  • Traumatic amputation at the scene
  • Surgical amputation due to irreparable damage
  • Prosthetic limbs and rehabilitation
  • Significant lifestyle changes

Long-Term Impact and Costs

Motorcycle accident injuries often result in:

  • Multiple surgeries and hospitalizations
  • Months or years of physical therapy
  • Inability to return to work
  • Permanent disability
  • Chronic pain requiring ongoing treatment
  • Psychological trauma and PTSD
  • Diminished quality of life

The True Cost of Motorcycle Injuries

Your compensation should include:

  • All past and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Disability and disfigurement
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Costs of home and vehicle modifications
  • Ongoing care and assistance

Why Motorcyclists Need Experienced Legal Representation

Insurance companies often try to:

  • Blame the motorcyclist unfairly
  • Downplay injury severity
  • Offer settlements that don't cover long-term costs
  • Use bias against motorcyclists

The Baum Law Firm has successfully represented injured motorcyclists for decades. We understand the unique challenges you face and fight for full compensation.

Contact us at (951) 200-4265 for a free phone consultation.

About the Author

Edward Baum is an experienced attorney at The Baum Law Firm, serving Temecula and Riverside County since 1959. Contact us at (951) 200-4265 for a free phone consultation.

Need Legal Advice?

Contact The Baum Law Firm for a free phone consultation about your case. No fees unless we recover money in your case.