Types of Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents in Pittsburgh

Motorcycle accidents often cause far more serious injuries than typical car crashes. Riders do not have the protection of a vehicle frame, airbags, or seat belts to keep them safe or absorb some of the impact. Even when a motorcyclist wears a helmet and other protective gear, the force of a collision can cause life-changing harm.

Unfortunately, there are times when you won’t be able to avoid a motorcycle crash. Understanding the types of injuries from motorcycle accidents in Pittsburgh can be helpful for anyone considering a lawsuit. Reach out to our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys today to learn more about what Berger and Green can do for you.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

One of the most devastating types of injuries in a Pittsburgh motorcycle accident is head trauma. A rider may suffer a traumatic brain injury when the head strikes the pavement, another vehicle, or some other object during the crash.

Brain injuries range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering trauma. You could experience a wide range of unexpected symptoms including sleep disruptions, chronic pain, and even changes to your mood or personality.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Another of the most serious types of injuries in a Pittsburgh motorcycle accident involves damage to the spinal cord. These injuries often occur when a rider lands on the ground or suffers a violent impact with another vehicle. Damage to the spinal cord often results in paralysis, but even lesser injuries can still lead to long-term numbness and pain.

Broken Bones

Fractures are common in motorcycle accidents because riders frequently absorb the force of a collision with their arms, legs, and torso. A rider may also suffer fractures after being thrown from the motorcycle, with the fractures frequently occurring in the:

• Arms
• Hands
• Wrists
• Ankles
• Pelvis
• Forearm

Some broken bones heal with immobilization and therapy, while others require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation. You could be entitled to compensation in either scenario.

Road Rash

Road rash occurs when a rider slides across the pavement after a crash, and the friction removes layers of skin and damages underlying tissue. While this isn’t the most severe of injuries, it can lead to extensive pain and long-term scarring depending on the circumstances.

Internal Injuries

Motorcycle accidents often produce significant blunt-force trauma to a rider’s torso. Even when external injuries appear minor, internal damage may exist beneath the surface. You could suffer internal bleeding, organ damage, punctured lungs, other life-threatening conditions without realizing just how serious your condition is.

Back Injuries

Back injuries frequently occur when the body absorbs the force of a collision or impact with the ground. These injuries may affect muscles, ligaments, vertebrae, or spinal discs. Many motorcycle accident victims suffer herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or chronic lower back pain. Severe back injuries can also limit your mobility and make it difficult to return to work or perform routine tasks.

Facial Injuries

Even when a rider wears a helmet, a motorcycle accident can cause significant facial trauma. Facial injuries often require extensive medical treatment and may leave permanent scars. In some cases, victims undergo reconstructive surgery to restore the appearance of their face or teeth.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments throughout the body. These injuries often develop when the body twists or stretches uncomfortably in a motor vehicle collision. These sudden impacts can lead to a host of tissue injuries, including sprains and strains.