What Are the Most Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents?

What Are the Most Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents? Motorcycles have always been popular alternative modes of transport, and in recent years, more are on the road than ever before. Incidentally, with the rising number of motorcycles, motorcycle accidents have dramatically risen from 1997 to 2008, up 61 percent. Fatalities were up from 2,028 in 1997 to 4,654 in 2006, a 129 percent increase. Riding motorcycles is a dangerous proposition. But while most fatalities occur when the motorcycle strikes a vehicle head-on, government statistics show that the most common injuries in motorcycle accidents are to the legs. In fact, one federal study found that leg injuries are among the most common injuries suffered by motorcycle riders and passengers involved in traffic accidents. Those lower-extremity injuries often result in lengthy and expensive medical treatments, and sometimes, even permanent disabilities.

Lower-Extremity Injuries Are the Top Injury in Motorcycle Accidents

A federal study found that between 2001 and 2008, many non-fatal, motorcycle-related injuries were to the legs and feet— 30 percent of all motorcycle-related injuries were to the lower extremities. Since a motorcycle can’t stand without support, either from a kickstand or the rider’s own legs, almost all motorcycle accidents result in the motorcycle falling over. This results in the rider’s leg being caught under the motorcycle, frequently resulting in a broken leg. According to the Center for Neuro Skills, a broken leg is the most common injury resulting in hospitalization for motorcycle accident victims.

Lower-Extremity Injuries Are Becoming More Common

According to the National Institutes of Health, leg injuries suffered in motorcycle accidents are becoming more common. Furthermore, a high percentage of such injuries are severe, calling for significant and lengthy treatment, often still resulting in poor health outcomes. Leg and lower-extremity injuries can range from road rash—abrasions resulting from the leg being scraped along the road surface after the motorcycle falls to its side—to severe bruising, large cuts, and broken bones in the legs and feet. These injuries are rarely fatal—but they can prove debilitating, even permanently so. A leg injury suffered in a motorcycle accident can become a lifelong issue, so do not ignore it. If you suffer such an injury, explore your compensation options.

If You Were Injured in a Motorcycle Accident in the Richmond area, Contact the Personal Injury Lawyers of Emroch & Kilduff

If you suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident in the Richmond area, consult a personal injury attorney to determine your rights under the particular circumstances of your situation. Virginia law may entitle you to compensation. The lawyers of Emroch & Kilduff specialize in personal injury law. They can protect your rights and obtain just compensation in these situations. Reach us at (804) 358-1568 or through our online contact form.