Given that motorcycles lack enclosures, it's not surprising that motorcycle accidents tend to cause more severe injuries than other types of automobile crashes. This vulnerability underscores the importance of understanding and empathizing with motorcycle riders' heightened risks on the road.
In Maine, motorcycle accidents are increasing in number and severity. A spike in accidents occurred in 2022, the year with the most recent information available when overall motorcycle crashes shot up by almost 20 percent and fatal bike wrecks increased by over 50 percent.
Statewide in 2022, there were 565 motorcycle accidents resulting in injuries, including 32 fatal crashes.
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
Understanding motorcycle accident injuries can help drivers be more aware of their role in causing crashes and preventing future wrecks. At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, we have years of experience fighting and winning for injured motorcycle accident victims. For instance, in one case, we obtained a $2 million settlement for a client who suffered a traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle accident at an intersection.
Common motorcycle accident injuries
Each of these injuries can have a significant impact on a motorcyclist's life, requiring comprehensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and support to facilitate recovery and minimize long-term consequences.
Road rash
When a rider's unprotected skin scrapes against the pavement upon impact, it's called road rash. The damage can range from mild abrasions to deep lacerations, primarily affecting the skin and potentially underlying tissues and bones. Recovery involves wound care and potential skin grafts and may lead to scarring or disfigurement.
Fractures/broken bones
Fractures are common in motorcycle accidents due to their impact on the ground or other vehicles. These injuries can affect various parts of the body, including the limbs, pelvis, ribs, and spine. Recovery depends on the severity of the fracture, ranging from immobilization with casts or splints to surgical intervention. Long-term effects may include chronic pain, limited mobility, and arthritis.
Head injuries, traumatic brain injuries
Head injuries are a significant concern for motorcyclists, even when wearing helmets. TBIs can range from concussions to severe brain damage. Recovery varies greatly depending on the severity, with mild cases needing rest and monitoring, while severe cases may require surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Long-term effects can include cognitive impairment, memory loss, and personality changes.
Spinal cord injuries
SCIs can result in paralysis or loss of sensation and motor function below the injury site. These injuries often lead to long-term disabilities, affecting mobility, bladder and bowel control, and potentially causing chronic pain. Recovery involves extensive rehabilitation, adaptive equipment, and lifestyle adjustments to manage the long-term effects.
Internal organ damage
Blunt force trauma from motorcycle accidents can cause damage to internal organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs. Recovery depends on the severity of the injury and may involve surgery, intensive care, and monitoring for complications. Long-term effects can include organ dysfunction, chronic pain, and increased risk of secondary health issues.
Lower extremity injuries
Motorcycle accidents frequently result in lower extremity injuries, including fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue injuries to the legs, knees, and feet. Recovery involves immobilization, physical therapy, and possibly surgical intervention. Long-term effects may include chronic pain, limited mobility, and decreased quality of life.
Facial injuries
Even when wearing a helmet, these are common in motorcycle accidents due to the lack of protection for the rider's face. These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe trauma such as fractures, lacerations, or dental injuries. Recovery may involve surgery, dental procedures, and scar management. Long-term effects can include disfigurement, loss of facial function, and psychological distress.
Nerve damage
Motorcycle accidents can cause nerve damage, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or loss of function in affected areas. Recovery depends on the extent of the nerve injury and may involve medications, physical therapy, or surgery. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, sensory deficits, and impaired mobility.
Joint dislocation
Motorcycle accidents can lead to joint dislocations, particularly in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, or knees. Dislocations occur when the bones forming a joint are forced out of their normal positions. Recovery involves manual reduction of the dislocated joint, immobilization, physical therapy, and possible surgical intervention for severe cases. Long-term effects may include joint instability, recurrent dislocations, and chronic pain, impacting mobility and quality of life.
Amputations
Severe motorcycle accidents can result in traumatic amputations of limbs or digits. Recovery involves surgical intervention, prosthetic fittings, and extensive rehabilitation to regain function and adapt to life with limb loss. Long-term effects include physical limitations, phantom limb pain, and psychological adjustment to the loss of a body part.
Injured in a Maine motorcycle accident? Get The Bornstein Advantage
If you are the injured victim of a Maine motorcycle accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. We understand the immense pain and challenges you may be facing. Insurance companies may offer low settlements, leaving you unsure if it's fair. That's where our experienced Maine motorcycle accident attorneys can come in.
We handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing. With us, you'll have support throughout the process. Contact the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein for a free case evaluation. We're here to listen to what happened and explain how a motorcycle accident lawyer can help you.
