If you ride a motorcycle, you are probably already aware of the need for enhanced safety measures. After all, the death rate for motorcycle accidents stands at 72 per 100,000 drivers, compared to just 13 out of 100,000 car drivers, according to the NHTSA. However, even the most robust safety measures are not always enough.
If another driver is negligent on the road, you could suffer serious injuries in a motorcycle crash. One of the major threats from a motorcycle accident is the risk of internal injuries. Internal bleeding and other “hidden” injuries can have lasting and fatal consequences. Read on to find out the types of internal injuries suffered by victims of motorcycle accidents.
1. Blunt Force Internal Injuries
This is one of the most common motorcycle accident injuries, and the most dangerous. A blunt force injury occurs when the body hits a blunt (i.e. not sharp) object with serious force. Since there is no open wound, it might not look like the victim is injured. However, these types of injuries often cause serious internal trauma, especially on vital organs. Blunt force internal injuries are a leading cause of death precisely because they go unnoticed until it is too late. This is why anyone who is involved in a motorcycle accident should arrange for an ultrasound scan as quickly as possible.
2. Decelerating Trauma Injuries
A decelerating injury is often seen in victims of a serious motorcycle crash. These happen when your body, which is in motion, comes to a sudden stop without warning. This often happens when the rider collides with an immovable object. As your body comes to a sudden stop, your internal organs might keep moving forward, causing serious damage as they collide with your skeleton. This is a very common cause of fatal heart and brain injuries.
3. Traumatic Brain Injury
This is a category of injury that takes many forms and is frequently seen in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident. Traumatic brain injuries can be immediately apparent, but they sometimes only become clear days or weeks after the accident. Symptoms include nosebleeds, disorientation, nausea, headaches, and seizures. If not treated quickly, the damage can be permanent or even fatal. Always arrange for a CT scan after a motorcycle accident to detect signs of traumatic brain injury.
4. Bone Fractures
Broken bones are one of the most common motorcycle injuries around. They are often not visible, and many victims walk around for weeks with a broken bone without realizing it. However, an untreated broken limb can cause permanent damage and deformation, since you are not allowing the bone to set and heal. This is why x-rays are recommended for all motorcycle crash victims.
5. React Quickly
If you are in a motorcycle accident and are at risk of internal injuries, you need to act now. This legal guide tells you everything you need to know if you are involved in a motorcycle accident, including how to collect damages to cover medical costs and lost wages. Act now to secure your future.
Safer Driving in 2022
Knowing the dangers of internal injuries may help to encourage you to drive more safely in 2022. We sure hope so. If you’re in need of practical advice on staying safe on the road, our blog has all of the answers you seek. Check it out today.
