A report by the Middletown Department of Transportation indicates that motorcycle accidents account for 5% of total traffic accidents, yet victims experience a disproportionate amount of injuries, with road rash and fractures being the most common.
When an accident occurs, there is always an at-fault party. As the victim, you’re entitled to compensation from the at-fault party.
Middletown motorcycle accident lawyers can help you get the justice that is due to you.
Common Injuries Middletown Motorcycle Accident Victims Suffer
According to state data, the following are the most common physical effects of motorcycle accidents:
Road rash
Road rash can be excruciatingly painful. It occurs when a rider slides on asphalt, literally grinding away skin and tissues. This exposes nerve endings, causing intense burning and stinging.
While not life-threatening, road rash can be extensive and might require medical debridement (wound cleaning). In severe cases, they can even leave permanent scars. Nearly 70% of motorcycle accident victims experience this painful aftermath of an accident.
Fractures
The exposed nature of a motorcycle rider makes them vulnerable to fractures, especially in the limbs. A study found that leg fractures account for over 50% of all fractures in motorcycle accidents. Severe broken bones can take months to heal and cause lasting pain for the victim.
Open Wounds
Motorcycle accidents can cause deep cuts and gashes. These are serious as they increase the risk of infection and blood loss.
Neck and spinal cord injuries
The twisting forces during a crash can severely damage the spine. In worst-case scenarios, this can lead to paralysis.
Brain damage
Head injuries are common in motorcycle accidents, and even seemingly minor ones can lead to serious consequences like memory loss, impaired cognitive function, and coma.
Permanent disfigurement
Motorcycle accidents can leave lasting physical reminders. Facial fractures, severe lacerations, and deep burns can heal, but they might leave scars or alter one’s facial features.
Amputations, though less common, may be required in cases of severe crush injuries. These permanent changes can be emotionally difficult for the victim. It can impact their self-esteem and social interactions.
While reconstructive surgery can offer improvement, it’s often a long and ongoing process, and there is often no guarantee of a complete return to pre-accident appearance.
Emotional Effects of a Motorcycle Accident
The aftermath of a motorcycle accident extends beyond mere physical effects. The victim’s psychological health is not safe from side effects.
Here are some of the most common emotional effects of a motorcycle accident:
PTSD
Motorcycle accidents can trigger PTSD, a mental health disorder caused by a terrifying experience. Flashbacks, nightmares, and intense anxiety about riding a motorcycle again are symptoms of PTSD.
Victims of a motorcycle accident may begin to scan their surroundings more. Their daily lives will become filled with edginess and paranoia.
Inability to return to the road
The fear and physical limitations following an accident can make returning to riding a motorcycle daunting. Even minor injuries can shake a rider’s confidence. The very act of getting back on the bike can trigger panic attacks for them.
When a driver loses their freedom and passion, it can plunge them into a state of immense emotional distress.
Panic
The memory of the accident or the fear of another one can lead to sudden and overwhelming panic attacks. Symptoms like a rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and dizziness can be terrifying and debilitating. These attacks can occur while riding, thinking about riding, or even in seemingly unrelated situations.
Incessant flashbacks of the accident
The sights, sounds, and even smells of the accident can appear in vivid detail as flashbacks. These involuntary memories can be intensely distressing and disrupt daily activities. Flashbacks can be triggered by seemingly innocuous things, making it difficult to find peace of mind.
What to Do After Sustaining Injuries in a Motorcycle Accident in Middletown
The first reasonable thing to do is to seek medical help. After you’re stable, be sure to contact your legal representative to begin the process of seeking compensation before your medical bills pile up.