Epworth Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

In the wake of a tragedy, motorcycle injury attorneys become committed supporters for riders. With a focus on motorcycle accidents, they manage legal complexities to ensure injured riders receive fair justice and compensation.

Motorcycle Burn Injuries: Causes, Types, and Legal Implications

Motorcycle accidents can result in a range of injuries, some of which can be severe and life-changing. Among these are various types of burn injuries, which can occur under different circumstances. Understanding the nature of these injuries, their causes, and the potential for legal recourse can be crucial for affected riders.

Road Rash Injuries

Road rash, or road burn, occurs when a motorcyclist’s skin scrapes against the pavement or gravel during an accident. This can happen when the rider is thrown from the bike or dragged along the road. The injuries can vary in severity, requiring different levels of medical attention:

1. Deep Scrapes: High-speed accidents can cause deep wounds that may need stitches. These open wounds are prone to infection, necessitating careful medical management.
2. Bruising and Compression Injuries: When a rider is pinned between the bike and the road, severe bruising and crush injuries can occur.
3. Avulsion Injuries: These injuries involve multiple layers of skin being scraped away, potentially exposing and damaging underlying muscle or fat tissue. Surgery and skin grafts are often required for recovery.

Exhaust Burns

Exhaust burns are another common type of motorcycle burn injury, occurring when the rider or passenger comes into contact with the hot exhaust pipe. These injuries can be extremely painful and may lead to permanent scarring. A study by Athens University Medical School highlighted that most exhaust burn injuries occur below the knee on the right leg and affect passengers more frequently than riders. The study also found that over 65% of victims sustained second-degree burns.

Windburn

Windburn is caused by prolonged exposure to strong winds, which can damage the outer layer of skin. This results in painful, dry, and itchy skin that burns easily in the sun. Wearing protective gear, such as a helmet with a visor, can help prevent windburn.

Burns from Collisions

Burns from collisions can occur when a motorcycle catches fire following an accident. Mechanical failures, gasoline leaks, and faulty wiring can all lead to fires that cause serious, sometimes life-threatening injuries. These burns are categorized into three degrees:

1. First-degree burns: Affect only the outer layer of skin, causing redness and pain.
2. Second-degree burns: Damage both the outer layer and the underlying skin, leading to swelling, redness, and blisters.
3. Third-degree burns: Destroy the deepest layers of skin and tissues, potentially affecting muscles and bones.

Spinal Cord Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious outcomes of motorcycle accidents. According to a study published in the Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, approximately 11% of motorcycle accident victims sustain spinal cord injuries. These injuries can result from the vertebrae being crushed, compressed, or dislodged during a collision.

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

1. Complete Injuries: Total loss of sensation and movement below the injury site.
2. Incomplete Injuries: Partial loss of sensation and function, with varying degrees of severity.

Complications and Mental Impact

Spinal cord injuries can lead to numerous health complications, including blood clots, pressure sores, breathing difficulties, and loss of bladder or bowel control. These physical challenges are often accompanied by severe mental and emotional issues, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Studies have shown that nearly half of spinal cord injury patients suffer from mental health problems.

Legal Assistance for Motorcycle Accident Victims

If you or a loved one has sustained burn injuries or spinal cord injuries in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Legal claims can cover medical expenses, lost income, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering and mental anguish. Consulting with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your case and maximize your compensation.

Consulting a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

The toll from severe motorcycle injuries can encompass substantial medical expenses and long-term care costs for victims and their families. Lost wages may compound matters, especially if employment becomes unrealistic for an extended period. Getting help from a motorcycle accident attorney allows the pursuit of comprehensive compensation, from financial damages and emotional distress such as pain and suffering.

Victims of these accidents should seek consultation with a motorcycle accident attorney, as damages may be extensive and recovery of compensation is important.

At Walker, Billingsley & Bair, our motorcycle accident attorneys can represent you in dealings with your insurance company, or when filing a personal injury claim. Set up your consultation now by calling 641-792-3595.