Compared to motor vehicle drivers, cyclists are vulnerable to very severe injuries during an accident. Bicycles do not have the same large tires and metal shells as cars. Collisions between the two can be catastrophic and result in significant damage.
Many injuries can occur in a bicycle collision, from traumatic brain damage to broken bones and fractures. If you ride a bicycle in California, it is important to be aware of these risks and take steps to protect yourself on the road.
While helmets can reduce the risk of very serious brain injuries, head injuries are some of the most common injuries after a bike accident. A cyclist can easily fall off of his or her bike and hit his or her head on the road.
Head injuries can range from mild concussions to very serious contusions, intracranial hemorrhages, skull fractures, and other traumatic brain injuries. This type of damage often results in cognitive, sensory, physical, and emotional complications that can be both temporary and permanent.
Many bike accident victims suffer from broken bones. The force and impact of the collision can cause bones to shatter and fracture, often requiring weeks or months of healing time. Commonly broken bones include those in the ribs, arms, legs, hips, ankles, and wrists.
It is common for bicycle accident victims to suffer painful injuries that affect the muscles, tendons, joints, and soft tissues of the body. These soft tissue injuries may include dislocated shoulders, painful strains, and contusions in the muscle. Many of these injuries do not show up on X-rays or other imaging scans, which can make them difficult to diagnose.
During a bicycle accident, a cyclist can be thrown from his or her bike and skid across the surface of the road. This can lead to a serious and painful injury known as road rash, where the top layer of skin is scraped off. Road rash can result in permanent scarring and can take weeks to heal.
Certain internal organs can be punctured, torn, or bruised during a bicycle accident, leading to serious damage. Cyclists can suffer from internal bleeding and a loss of function as a result of their internal injuries. Many forms of organ damage do not show symptoms right away but can be dangerous if left untreated, so it is critical to seek medical care right away.
Bicycle accident injuries can be very serious, often requiring extensive medical care and weeks of recovery time. If you were injured in a collision, you have the right to pursue legal action against the person responsible. However, filing a claim can be a stressful process, especially after a recent injury.
In these situations, you need an attorney on your side who can advocate for your right to maximum compensation and hold the at-fault party accountable. Your lawyer can handle all aspects of your claim on your behalf, allowing you to focus on healing and recovery.
After seeking medical care for your injuries, contact a San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer to discuss your case and plan your next steps.
