Motorcycle Crashes and Road Rash Injuries

Motorcycle accidents lead to a variety of injuries, and in most cases, riders bear the brunt of an accident. Their exposure and lack of protective barriers are unique to them, and these factors put them at risk of road rash and other injuries. After a crash, a rider who experiences road rash will need to seek medical care and take steps to protect themselves.

If you have b been injured in a motorcycle collision, it’s time to find out what your next steps should be. Call Caroselli, Beachler & Coleman at 866-565-4949 to set up a time to talk now.

What is Road Rash?

The term “road rash” refers to a skin injury caused by the friction you experience when you slide on the road. Anyone who falls on the ground can experience road rash, and in fact, it’s often seen among bicyclists as well. Even drivers can get road rash if they are thrown from their vehicle. However, the injury is most common among motorcyclists.

Road rash is divided into several different categories. First-degree road rash is superficial and only affects the top layer of your skin. While it is still very painful, this type of road rash usually heals with minimal intervention. Second-degree road rash is more serious, extending down into the dermis.

Those who have second-degree road rash often need medical care and may have scars for the rest of their lives. The worst type of road rash is third-degree road rash. It reaches through the skin into the muscles and tissues underneath. It is extraordinarily painful and requires immediate medical care.

Why Riders Are at Greater Risk of Road Rash

Motorcyclists are at significant risk of road rash when they are involved in accidents. Car occupants are protected by a metal frame and a long list of safety features built into their vehicles. The only protection motorcyclists have is proper riding gear and a helmet. Riders are also far more likely to be thrown from their vehicle in a crash, increasing the likelihood and severity of road rash.

Riders may travel at high speeds, especially out on the open road with few cars around them. Should they hit an unexpected obstacle or a divot in the road, the increased speed could lead to severe road rash.

How Road Rash Happens in a Motorcycle Accident

Road rash happens in several different steps. It starts when a biker loses control of their vehicle, which is often the result of speeding, unsafe maneuvers, or dangers that force them to take evasive action. The rider then falls or is thrown from their vehicle, at which point they make contact with the road. The speed with which they hit the ground and the amount of time they slide on the ground determines how much road rash they suffer and how severe it is.

Path to Recovery

Recovering from road rash is a journey that differs from person to person. Those who suffer minor road rash may recover with nothing more than antibiotic cream and bandages. However, victims with second-degree and third-degree road rash must seek medical attention. Treatment options vary, depending on the size and severity of the injury. Wound care is an essential component of recovery, and those with large areas affected by road rash may need more ongoing care than others.

Remember that third-degree road rash affects the muscles and other tissues below the skin. That can cause issues with mobility. For that reason, those with third-degree road rash may need to go to physical therapy to improve muscle strength and recover their full range of motion.

You must also think about the risk of infection. Infection is always possible, especially when large areas of skin are affected by road rash. Any oozing or spreading redness requires immediate medical care.

Explore Your Legal Options with the Team at Caroselli, Beachler & Coleman

Have you been hurt in a motorcycle crash? You do not have to fight for compensation alone. Choose Caroselli, Beachler & Coleman to advocate for you. Just call us at 866-565-4949 or fill out our online contact form to set up a consultation right away.