Motorcycle riders are highly vulnerable. Even the slightest bump from a passenger vehicle can eject a rider from their bike. While helmets can greatly reduce the risk of a severe injury, they’re not infallible. Even helmets can’t wholly protect someone from hitting their head and suffering devastating consequences.
The Eberst Law Firm has a team of skilled, experienced attorneys who will protect your rights and help you obtain maximum compensation. If you’ve suffered a head injury in a motorcycle wreck that wasn’t your fault, please get in touch with us as soon as possible. Contact us online or call 1-888-CALL-JON for a free consultation.
How Do Motorcycle Accidents Cause Head Injuries?
Unlike occupants of cars or trucks, motorcyclists don’t have the protection of an enclosed vehicle or safety features like seat belts and airbags. In a collision or a fall, motorcyclists are more likely to experience a direct impact on their heads.
Motorcycle accidents can cause head injuries when the rider is ejected during a collision. The impact force can cause the rider’s head to strike a stationary object, such as another vehicle, a roadside barrier, or the pavement. Even in cases where the head doesn’t make direct contact with an object, the abrupt deceleration and rotational forces involved in a crash can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull, leading to brain injuries.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Florida
There are many different reasons motorcycle accidents occur in our state. These are just some of the most common.
- Driver negligence: This includes actions such as speeding, reckless driving, failure to yield, and disregarding traffic laws.
- Distracted driving: When drivers engage in activities that divert their attention from the road, such as eating, using their phone to talk or text, or daydreaming, they can easily hit a motorcycle.
- Impaired driving: Driving while drunk or high can ruin coordination and judgment. It can also significantly reduce reaction time.
- Road hazards: Uneven road surfaces, potholes, debris, oil spills, or other hazards can cause a motorcyclist to lose control and crash.
- Inclement weather conditions: Rain or fog can create slippery road conditions, reduced visibility, and decreased traction, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Lack of visibility: Other drivers often fail to see motorcycles on the road, leading to collisions when they change lanes, make turns, or merge without adequately checking for motorcyclists.
Types of Head Injuries Caused by Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can result in various types of debilitating head injuries. Here are a few of the injuries riders suffer.
Concussions
A concussion occurs due to a blow or jolt to the head. It can lead to temporary loss of consciousness, confusion, headaches, dizziness, memory problems, and other cognitive impairments.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
A TBI is a severe head injury that results from a significant impact on the head or penetration of the skull. It can cause long-term or permanent damage to brain function, affecting cognition, memory, motor skills, and behavior.
Skull Fractures
The force of a motorcycle accident can cause the skull to fracture. Skull fractures can be linear (a single break) or depressed (a break in which fragments are pushed into the brain cavity). These fractures can be associated with brain injuries and require immediate medical attention.
Intracranial Bleeding
Motorcycle accidents can cause bleeding within the skull, known as intracranial bleeding. Examples include subdural hematomas, epidural hematomas, and intracerebral hemorrhages. Intracranial bleeding can lead to increased pressure on the brain, potentially causing severe complications if not treated promptly.
Contusions and Lacerations
The impact of a motorcycle accident can result in contusions (bruises) and lacerations (cuts) on the scalp or inside the skull. These injuries may require stitches or surgical intervention, depending on their severity.
Symptoms of a Head Injury
Symptoms of a head injury can vary depending on the injury’s severity and type. Common symptoms include the following:
- Headaches
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Confusion or disorientation
- Memory loss or difficulty concentrating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Seizures
- Slurred speech
- Blurred vision or double vision
- Mood changes or irritability
- Loss of consciousness
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the above symptoms after a motorcycle wreck. Some head injuries may not exhibit symptoms immediately, so please monitor your condition and seek medical evaluation if symptoms develop later.
The Cost of a Head Injury
Head injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents can lead to significant financial burdens. The costs associated with head injuries may include:
Medical Expenses
These include emergency medical care, hospitalization, surgeries, diagnostic tests (such as CT scans or MRIs), medications, and ongoing treatment or rehabilitation.
Lost Wages
If the head injury prevents you from working or causes a temporary or permanent disability, you may experience a loss of income. This includes wages lost during hospitalization, recovery periods, or needing to take time off for medical appointments or therapy.
Long-term Care
Severe head injuries may require long-term care or assistance with daily activities. This can include in-home care, rehabilitation services, specialized therapies, and assistive devices.
Pain and Suffering
Head injuries can lead to severe physical pain and emotional and mental trauma. It can also significantly impact the victim’s quality of life. You could seek compensation for the physical and emotional suffering you’ve endured due to the at-fault driver’s negligence.
Future Expenses
It is essential to consider the long-term impact of a head injury. Your attorney will take into account future medical expenses, ongoing therapy, assistive devices, and potential loss of earning capacity when seeking compensation.
How to Receive Compensation for Your Damages
These are just some steps you need to take to receive compensation for your head injury and associated damages. The faster you act, the better the chances you’ll receive the money you deserve.
- Seek immediate medical attention: Prompt medical evaluation is crucial for diagnosing and documenting your head injury.
- Gather evidence: Collect evidence related to the accident, including police reports, photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, and medical records detailing the extent of your injuries.
- Speak with an attorney: A motorcycle accident injury attorney can provide guidance on building a strong case, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court.
- File an insurance claim: Contact your insurance company to file a compensation claim. Provide them with the necessary documentation, medical records, and evidence of the accident and your injuries.
- Negotiate or pursue legal action: Your attorney can assist in negotiating a fair settlement with the insurance company to cover your damages. If the insurer doesn’t settle, your attorney can file a personal injury lawsuit and advocate for your rights in court.
Do I Need to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorney for My Head Injury Case?
Hiring legal representation isn’t mandatory. But if you hire a skilled lawyer, your chances of obtaining fair compensation will increase dramatically. Here’s a quick look at a few ways your attorney can help.
Assess the Value of Your Claim
Your attorney will evaluate the extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future costs, to determine an appropriate compensation amount.
Navigate the Legal Process
A lawyer will be familiar with the legal procedures and statutes related to motorcycle accidents and head injuries. They’ll handle the paperwork, communicate with insurance companies, and ensure your rights are protected.
Gather Evidence and Consult with Experts
Attorneys have the resources and network to gather crucial evidence, consult with accident reconstruction experts or medical professionals, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Learn more about how The Eberst Law Firm can help you by calling 1-888-CALL-JON or using our online contact form to schedule a free review of your case.
