Serious Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
Did you know that 80 percent of motorcycle crashes result in injuries to the rider (NHTSA)? Unfortunately, some motorcycle accident injuries are devastating, even life-altering. Injured motorcyclists must be able to get the immediate care that they need after a wreck. Our motorcycle accident attorney discusses some of the most common injuries in crashes and the steps you can take to reduce your risks.
Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in South Carolina
As a motorcyclist, you are inherently vulnerable. You must take proactive steps to protect yourself from the risk of injury. The data is clear: Motorcyclists are more than 25 times more likely to be catastrophically injured or killed in a crash than are other drivers. Some of the most common motorcycle wreck injuries in South Carolina include:
- Severe road rash
- Biker’s arm (a nerve injury caused by landing on the arm during a fall)
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Internal organ injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Amputations
Hurt in a motorcycle accident? Your top priority is your health and safety. Make sure you get to the doctor as soon as possible. You always need to get the proper follow-up care.
How to Reduce Your Risk of a Serious Motorcycle Injury
Unfortunately, you cannot eliminate the risk associated with riding a motorcycle. Still, there are proactive steps that you can take that can make a big difference. Here are three of the most essential things riders can do to avoid serious injuries in South Carolina:
Always Wear a Helmet: Wearing a helmet is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of a life-threatening injury in a motorcycle accident. A DOT-approved helmet can significantly lower the chances of suffering a traumatic brain injury. In South Carolina, riders under 21 must wear a helmet, but all riders should prioritize it.
Slow Down: Speed matters. Speed increases the risk of and potential severity of a motorcycle accident injury. The faster you go, the less time there is to react to hazards on the road. Slowing down gives you better control over your bike and helps you navigate traffic and road conditions more safely.
Be Careful When Changing Lanes: Many motorcycle accidents happen because drivers fail to notice the presence of bikes. Indeed, motorcycles can easily fall into a driver’s blind spot, making lane changes especially dangerous. For that reason, riders should always use their mirrors and turn signals and double-check before switching lanes.
Speak With a South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
At D. Craig Brown LLC, our Florence-based motorcycle accident attorney is committed to helping injured riders recover the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation if you’ve been seriously hurt in a crash. We proudly represent motorcycle accident victims across Florence and the surrounding areas in South Carolina.