Motorcycle Accidents and Paralysis
When a motorcyclist is involved in an accident, the injuries sustained are often much worse than injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents. Some injuries cause death while others lead to hospitalization. Although protective gear is often worn by motorcyclists, helmets and jackets cannot provide full protection in the event of an accident. Some of the most severe accidents involving motorcyclists can even cause paralysis.
It is not just the victim involved in the accident who suffers. It is also the loved ones of the victim, including his or her’s children, partner, parents, and siblings that are affected by this catastrophic injury. It is common for motorcyclists to suffer from both head and spinal injuries when involved in accidents. These injuries are among some of the most severe and will often lead to damage that can change a person’s life in many ways.
One of several reasons why motorcycle accidents are often much worse than accidents involving traditional vehicles is because there is a lack of safety materials. While drivers of cars are protected by a padded barrier, motorcyclists are out in the open and are exposed to everything that comes their way when involved in an accident. If they are in a collision with another vehicle, their body is usually immediately impacted.
Injuries That Occurs on the Back, Head, and Neck
Paralysis can occur when a person’s back, head, or neck is severely injured. Motorcyclists have a greater chance of injuring these parts of the body when they are involved in accidents. Because of the location of the spine, spinal cord damage may occur when a motorist hurts his or her back, which can lead to paralysis. Even injuries to the head and neck could cause such extensive injuries that would prevent a victim from being able to move the lower body. In some cases, paralysis is only temporary. Unfortunately for some motorists, paralysis becomes a permanent way of life.
Determining if the Spinal Cord is Damaged
After getting into an accident, a victim may claim that they cannot feel a certain part of their body, such as their legs. When this happens, it could be that the victim has suffered from extensive spinal cord damage. Areas of the body typically become numb, making it impossible for the victim to move those body parts. When an individual cannot move certain body parts, it is usually a sign that some sort of spinal cord damage has occurred. Medical professionals would need to perform an examination and a series of tests to determine if there is damage to the spinal cord. In addition to finding out if there is damage, the medical professionals would work on figuring out the extent of that damage.
Complications That Can Develop
When a person has paralysis, they can suffer from several complications. They are usually unable to do many things for themselves, such as preparing a meal, feeding themselves, or walking around with loved ones. Some people are paralyzed from the waist down while others suffer from paralysis from the neck down. Those with paralysis may also have difficulty breathing on their own or using the bathroom.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
When serious injuries are sustained after a motorcycle accident caused by another driver, receiving legal guidance is a necessity. Victims and their loved ones should speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer to go over the details of the accident.
Contact A New York Personal Injury Lawyer To Discuss Your Motorcycle Accident Case Today
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a motorcycle accident in New York? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. Proner & Proner represents clients injured due to motorcycle crashes in Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and throughout New York. Call 212-500-1003 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 60 E. 42nd Street, Suite 1503, New York, New York 10165, as well as offices in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Bethel, and Queens.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
