Motorcyclists are more vulnerable on the road than most other road users travelling by motorised transport. Unfortunately, injuries are common, from the relatively mild such as bruising and ligament damage, to more serious brain or spinal damage.
What are the most common motorcycling-related injuries?
The Institute of Advanced Motorists lists the following common motorcycle injuries:
Head injuries: Even though motorcyclists must wear a suitable crash helmet by law, the brain can still be significantly damaged in an accident. Even a low impact crash can cause minor symptoms such as headaches, nausea, short-term memory loss, but a severe impact can cause major brain trauma, life-changing injuries and even loss of life.
Eye injuries: In a collision, the impact of the crash can also cause severe eye damage and loss of sight due to nerve and brain damage as the head is jolted around inside the crash helmet.
Hearing damage: Noise exposure occurs as a result of loud and powerful engines, but also when wind rushes through the helmet past the ears of the rider, creating "wind noise".
Spine and neck injuries: Contact with the road, other vehicles and road furniture all have the capacity to cause serious spinal injury. High cervical injuries can cause complete paralysis from the neck down, while lower spinal injuries can affect levels of mobility, use of limbs, and bowel and bladder control.
Broken bones: Broken collarbones, shoulders and ribs are also common motorcycle accident injuries, as well as pelvis and spinal fractures, which are some of the most serious injuries suffered. The force of the bike landing on a limb can also cause crush injuries which may result in amputation.
Internal injuries : Internal injuries such as collapsed lungs, blunt cardiac injuries, ruptured diaphragm, perforated spleen, damage to the liver and haematoma are all a significant risk for motorcyclists and, by their very nature, major causes of biker fatality.
Groin injuries: During a collision, momentum can push riders into the petrol tank or handlebars, leading to fractures and damage to the bladder or genitals.
Road rash: When a motorcyclist hits the ground, momentum often causes them to slide along the road. Mild road rash causes red abrasion and discomfort for a few weeks. Severe road rash can mean deep tissue exposure, sometimes as far as the bone. There will be significant pain, lengthy treatment and permanent scarring is almost certain.
What do the statistics show?
Statistically, bikers are more likely to be involved in an accident, and when there is an accident, they are more likely to be seriously injured or killed.
According to figures for 2015 motorcyclists:
- Account for 21% of all road fatalities in the United Kingdom.
- 365 motorcyclists were killed on the nation’s roads, yes, that's an average of one death a day.
- Despite the efforts of campaigners the fatality figure was up 8% on 2014, and contrasts sharply with the overall trend of a reduction in road traffic accident deaths.
The consequences of a motorcycle accident are often severe, but expert advice on medical, legal and financial issues can help to reduce the impact of the accident on the motorcyclist and his family, easing both the practical and monetary burden in the aftermath of an accident.
David Adams
David Adams
"The compensation levels and values are all determined by the extent of the injury."
How can Thompsons Personal Injury Lawyers in Scotland help?
Our personal injury claim solicitors can advise on whether you have a compensation claim in respect of a motorbike accident. They will explain the process of making a claim for personal injury, and advise you of the amount of compensation you may be entitled to.
David Adams
David Adams
"You only get one opportunity to pursue a claim for compensation arising from an accident, and you have to make sure that when you do that, you get the best possible agents."
It is worth speaking to a Thompsons' injury lawyer if you or a loved one have suffered one or more of the following:
- Soft tissue injuries
- Fractures
- Multiple injuries
- Amputation
- Brain injury
- Spinal injury
- Fatal injury
- Rehabilitation
You will find more details of the most common types of motor accident injuries in our common injuries section.
If you are unsure about your eligibility to claim compensation, call our expert solicitors on 0800 0891 331 for advice and guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common injuries in motorcycle accidents?
They include head and spinal injuries, fractures, internal damage, groin trauma, and road rash.
Are motorcyclists at higher risk of fatal accidents?
Yes, statistics show motorcyclists are far more likely to be killed or seriously injured compared to other road users.
Can I claim compensation for motorcycle accident injuries?
Yes, with the help of Thompsons Solicitors, you may be entitled to compensation based on the severity of your injuries.
