Motorcycle accidents are all too common in the United States. 4,985 riders were killed in crashes in 2018 alone. Motorcyclists who survive an accident may suffer from brain injuries that alter their lives forever. The information below can help you learn what brain injuries can occur after such an accident, how to spot them and where to get legal help.
Types of Brain Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents
If you are unfamiliar with brain injuries, you may be unaware of the many different types that exist. The following injuries are some of the most common that can occur as the result of motorcycle accidents:
- Contusions— These are serious bruises that can indicate a brain bleed. They may require surgery to relieve pressure on the brain.
- Diffuse axonal injury— A diffuse axonal injury occurs when the brain’s movement lags behind the head’s movement. It causes nerve tissue to tear, releasing brain chemicals that cause further injury. Serious and permanent brain injury can occur as a result.
- Concussion— A concussion is the most common form of traumatic brain injury—including among motorcyclists—and one you have probably heard of. They can be mild, but many are severe or even permanent.
- Coup-contrecoup Injury—If the brain has contusions on both side, it is said to have a coup-contrecoup injury. This type of injury usually occurs when the brain slams into the other side of the skill after a contusion, which leads to the second injury.
This is not an exhaustive list of possible injuries. It is important for anyone who has been injured in a motorcycle accident to seek medical assistance as soon as possible.
Effects and Recovery From Injury After Motorcycle Accidents
As you can imagine, the effects of a brain injury on its victim can be severe and debilitating. Some examples include the following:
- Difficulty with speaking or language comprehension
- Emotional difficulties, including mental illness and personality changes
- Long-term or short-term memory loss
- Challenges related to thinking
- Blindness, numbness and other changes related to the senses
Recovery and life after an injury will vary depending on the type of brain injury and its severity. Even milder injuries may require the victim to alter routines for weeks or months, which will likely include staying off motorcycles. Various forms of therapy may also be required as part of a recovery plan.
Recognizing a Motorcycle Accident Brain Injury
It is important for motorcyclists as well as other motorists and pedestrians to recognize the signs of brain injury after a motorcycle accident in order to understand the severity of a victim’s situation. Some symptoms to look out for are as follows:
- Vertigo or coordination issues
- Headache
- Vomiting or nausea
- Speech issues, including slurred speech
- Weakness or numbness
Any individual who is already being treated for their brain injury should also look out for new or worsening symptoms. These may be signs of a severe or life-threatening injury.
Motorcycle Accidents NH and MA: Where to Get Legal Help
A brain injury can have devastating physical and mental effects. The financial impact can put a tremendous strain on victims and their families may also be severe. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, call Mazow | McCullough, PC. We provide the dedicated legal assistance you need for your accident-related challenges.