Common Injuries in a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcyclists are some of the most vulnerable people on the road. A bike rider and their passenger are traveling at high rates of speed with their heads and bodies fully exposed to the road and elements. Being this exposed while traveling leaves motorcyclists at a higher risk for injuries.

Lower extremity injuries are particularly common in motorcycle riding accidents. Although not usually fatal, leg injuries can be excruciatingly painful and lead to lifetime disabilities. Seldom are they able to heal without considerable medical care and expense.

A recent study of L.A. County motorcycle accidents during a 1.5 year span showed that out of 700 accidents, 163 were fatalities. All remaining riders were found in either a level 1 or level 2 trauma centers. Motorcycle accidents are serious.

Lower extremity injuries were found in over half of the accident victims who were considered nonfatal as well as 46% of those who died as a result of their injuries. Of all lower extremity injuries, fractures were most common. 

Tibia and fibula fractures were the most common fractures in those motorcyclists involved in accidents.   These fractures occur in the lower leg between the knee and ankle. These types of fractures occurred in both drivers and riders of the motorcycle. 

While more leg injuries happen when there are more legs involved, it seems to be an ever present problem during any motorcycle accident. Motorcycle manufacturers have not let this fact go unnoticed and while it may seem that leg injuries are part of riding motorcycles, it has been determined that changes in motorcycle and helmet design may curb accidents.

Lower extremity motorcycle accidents often include femur fractures as well. Femur fractures occur between the hip and knee and are extremely painful. Because these fractures are so proximal they can involve the hip as well. This type of injury most often requires surgery to be remedied.

Femur fracture surgery can include a replacement “ball” of the joint and can even require replacement or readjustment of the socket as well. A fracture to the mid-femur can require a rod placement that runs the length of the fracture. Screws and plates are used to keep the bony ends from permanently overlapping each other and causing permanent damage and painful and irregular ambulation.

Foot fractures are another common occurrence in motorcycle injuries. This is especially true if proper riding foot gear is not worn. Feet can be dragged and caught under the bike as it drags across the road during an accident. Fortunately, toe and foot breaks are often fixable without the use of surgical techniques. 

Motorcycle accidents are no laughing matter. Medical bills are expensive and an accident can leave you unable to work for extended periods of time.They can be fatal and most often are. Even the most cautious road warrior can be involved in an accident when someone else is at fault. The best course of action is to contact an experienced accident attorney, such as Moseley Collins, who will fight for your legal rights.