Riding a motorcycle can be dangerous. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that nearly 80 percent of all motorcycle crashes in the United States result in rider injuries. Unfortunately, motorcycle accident injuries have the potential to be devastating, even catastrophic. At Smith & Jones Law, LLC, we have the experience that injured motorcyclists can trust. Our firm handles even the most serious motorcycle accident injuries. Here, our Lexington motorcycle accident lawyer discusses the most common injuries in these crashes in South Carolina.
An Overview of the Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Road Rash
Road rash is one of the most common (and most painful) motorcycle accident injuries in South Carolina. It occurs when a rider’s skin contacts pavement during a motorcycle crash. Notably, road rash injuries can vary widely in their severity. It is not unusual for them to look superficial at first. Still, professional medical care is a must. Even mild road rash can cause intense pain and limit movement during healing. Without proper care, infection and scarring become real risks. Medically, road rash involves friction burns and avulsion injuries that remove layers of skin and underlying tissue. Severe cases expose muscle or bone and require surgical debridement or skin grafting. Complications include nerve damage, reduced sensation, and even permanent scarring.
Biker’s Arm
Biker’s arm refers to nerve injuries affecting the brachial plexus, typically involving the shoulder, arm, and hand. Riders often experience weakness, numbness, or loss of coordination immediately after a crash. These injuries typically happen from traction or compression of the brachial plexus. Motorcyclists often brace for a fall with their arms when a crash happens instinctively. A severe biker’s arm can be the result. Recovery depends on severity. An injured rider may require EMG testing, surgery, and long-term rehabilitation.
Sprains and Strains
Muscle strains and ligament sprains are common after motorcycle accidents, especially in the neck, back, shoulders, and knees. Riders may initially dismiss these injuries as soreness. Pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion often increase in the days following the crash. For sprains and strains, immediate medical attention is a must. MRI or diagnostic ultrasound may confirm the severity. Medical records are key to bringing a successful claim for a strain or sprain in South Carolina.
Broken Bones
Even a relatively low-speed motorcycle accident can lead to a broken bone. Indeed, fractures are frequent in motorcycle crashes. Some of the most common types of broken bones include the arms, legs, ribs, collarbones, and pelvis. Broken bones cause immediate pain, swelling, and functional loss. Emergency medical attention is a must. Most broken bones require immobilization by a doctor. Severe fractures may require surgery. Bad brakes can lead to adverse medical complications, including things like malunion, nonunion, infection, and post-traumatic arthritis.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Every motorcyclist in South Carolina should wear a DOT-approved safety helmet. Motorcycle helmets reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) by nearly 70 percent. Still, head injuries remain one of the most dangerous motorcycle accident outcomes, even when a rider wears a helmet. Some of the warning symptoms of TBIs include headaches, confusion, memory problems, dizziness, or personality changes. Even relatively mild TBIs can disrupt work and daily life for months. Severe TBIs are catastrophic injuries. They can lead to long-term or even permanent physical, emotional, and cognitive impairments.
Loss of Limb (Amputation)
Motorcycle crashes can result in traumatic amputations or injuries requiring surgical removal of a limb. Limb loss permanently alters mobility, independence, and employment prospects. The physical and psychological toll is profound. Amputations may involve partial or complete loss of an arm, leg, hand, foot, or digits. Depending on the specific nature of the injury, treatment may include emergency surgery, prosthetic fitting, and long-term rehabilitation. A loss of limb is a catastrophic injury. Immediate emergency medical attention is a must.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are especially dangerous because they are not always immediately visible. Riders may feel abdominal pain, chest tightness, or shortness of breath after a crash. Delayed treatment can quickly become life-threatening. Internal injuries include organ lacerations, internal bleeding, punctured lungs, and vascular damage. CT imaging and surgical exploration often confirm the diagnosis. These injuries can lead to permanent organ dysfunction or death if untreated.
Compensation for Motorcycle Injuries in South Carolina
Following a motorcycle accident in South Carolina, you have the right to seek compensation for the full scope of your damages, including any non-economic losses. The right attorney can make all the difference in a complicated case. Do not rely on any insurance company to look out for what is best for you and your family. Along with other damages, we are ready to seek compensation for:
- Motorcycle repairs or total loss valuereplacement
- Ambulance costs and emergency room care
- Hospital bills and other medical expenses
- Physical therapy and rehabilitative counseling
- Prescription medications and medical equipment
- Lost wages and loss of earning power
- Pain and suffering and mental distress
- Disability or disfigurement
- Permanent scarring
- Reduced quality of life
- Wrongful death of a family member
Why Injured Motorcyclists in South Carolina Trust Smith & Jones
Motorcycle accident claims are complicated. If you suffered a serious injury in a crash, you must have a strong, knowledgeable, and aggressive advocate on your side. At Smith & Jones Law, LLC, we are a proactive, solutions-driven law firm with a proven record of case results. We handle all types of motorcycle accident injuries. From our conveniently located office in Lexington, we handle motorcycle crash claims throughout the entire surrounding region.
Contact Our Lexington Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Review
At Smith & Jones Law, LLC, our Lexington motorcycle accident attorney is an aggressive, experienced advocate for justice. If you or your loved one suffered a serious injury in a motorcycle wreck, we are here to help. Call us now or contact us online for a free case evaluation. With a law office in the 29072 zip code of Lexington, we handle motorcycle accident cases all across the state, including in 29071 and 29073.